This year has proved a difficult one for Lancaster University Tennis Club. With the resurfacing of the tennis courts on campus, training times for most of the year have been limited to just one night a week. The courts remain unplayable at competition level until after Easter, when a top surface will be place upon them to finish the project started way back in October.
This has proved frustrating for club members in particular as they have had a limited opportunity to play. One would hope that this does not succeed as a problem in future years, as it would seriously disadvantage the club, particularly in the light of the range of facilities on offer at new sports centre to the majority of other clubs (no provisions have been provided for tennis which is disappointing).
Some of these issues could have affected the teams, particularly in terms of training time together. The Men’s 1st have had a mixed season, beating Chester Men’s 1st both home and away, however, it is looking likely that they will finish second from bottom in their respective league. Arguably their most exciting game was a thrilling 6-6 draw with Liverpool 1st which gained a modicum of revenge after league and cup defeats earlier in the season. Despite their poor form, the 1st remained competitive in most games, and only UCLan and Manchester were able to inflict heavy defeats upon them.
The Men’s 2nds, also injured a disappointing season, after a promising start which saw them defeat Keele Men’s 2nds 8-4; to finish next to bottom in their league. This was to provide their only victory of the season however, as seven defeats followed. Liverpool proved the bogey city, as Lancaster were defeated by teams from all three of the universities.
The Women’s team unfortunately had to pull out of the BUCS league half way through the season and the Roses Tournament due to a lack of players, despite the best efforts of the captain. Their only fixture of the season resulted in a disappointing 12-0 reverse against UCLan. One thing is certain though; both men’s teams are fired up and ready to put things straight at the Roses in May.
One final point to note, a B-active Tennis tournament will take place on Sunday, May 8 2011. This is open invitation for all those interested in competing that are not currently in the university teams. Registration opened on Monday and closes at 1pm on Friday, April 1. It costs £4, including a free tub of balls. Anyone interested in registering can do so at the LUSU activities office.
