Models of tennis decorum

Press, 1 June 1984, Page 21

Models of tennis decorum

The last summer season was a forgettable one for tennis at senior inter-club level in Christchurch. But, away from the spotlight, the game continues to enjoy a healthy existence among members of an enthusiastic group known as the “MidWeek Ladies.” There are no muttered oaths, flying rackets, or instances of umpire baiting when these women assemble at Wilding Park once a week to participate in their field days. Perhaps

the good behaviour is a reflection of the players’ genuine affection for the game, and their relief at escaping from the domestic scene. Certainly, they don’t play for the publicity; a tiny newspaper paragraph containing the names of the first three pairings at each field day is all they have received until now. But there is no pat-ball aspect about play among the 'mid-week ladies. Ac-

cording to Mr Brian Faulls. the president of the Canterbury Lawn Tennis Association, the contestants are knowledgeable and keen, and the energy and enthusiasm shown by players in this category on a national scale was sufficiently impressive to attract a sponsor. Now all the competitions are known as the Bernadino mid-week field days. Play is held in three grades, each grade paving one week on and tWo off,

Play in the C grade is said to be a little relaxed, but cut-throat competition prevails in the A grade. The appeal of the field days is widespread. City clubs are well represented, but players flock to Wilding Park from centres such as Seftcn. Lincoln, Kaiapoi, Rangiora, and as far away as Omihi. Between 400 and 500 players are involved in the three grades. The official who carries the burden of arranging the competitions, and handling

a welter of telephone calls when the weather is murky, is Mrs Vai Harris, the secretary of the C.L.T.A. Her vitality has helped to make the field days a showpiece for tennis. The socialising side of the game is not neglected by the M.W.L., and 120 of them recently attended an end of season luncheon and prize giving, at the Leander club. It was the first function of its kind, but it capped a busy season so successfully seems sure to be repeated.