In a thrilling showcase of skill and determination, the dynamic duo of Albie T and Monty T from Year 7 emerged victorious in the Real Tennis National Under 13 Championships in February. The day began early for the young athletes, with fixtures commencing promptly at 10:00 am against the formidable Oratory 3rd and 4th seeds.

From the outset, Albie and Monty showcased their prowess on the court, executing impeccable serves, engaging in exhilarating rallies, and displaying remarkable agility in pursuit of every ball. With a combination of finesse and determination, the duo clinched victory in the first two games, setting the stage for a remarkable journey through the tournament.

Their momentum continued as they swiftly dispatched the Westbourne House 2nd pair, securing their place in the highly anticipated finals later in the afternoon. The semi-final clash proved to be another test of their skills, yet Albie and Monty rose to the occasion, securing a commanding 6-3 victory and booking their spot in the ultimate showdown.

As anticipation reached a fever pitch, the final match against Westbourne House 1s unfolded with intensity and suspense. In a closely contested battle, marked by heart-stopping exchanges and some inch-perfect shots, Albie and Monty held their nerve and emerged triumphant. The decisive moment came as Albie delivered a spectacular winner in the Dedans, igniting jubilant celebrations among their supporters in the viewing gallery! 

Our heartfelt gratitude was extended to Claire Fahey for her meticulous marking throughout the tournament, ensuring fairness and accuracy in every match which not only educated the pupils, but also the spectators! Special thanks were also extended to The Oratory for hosting an exceptional event, providing a platform for young talents to shine on the national stage. 

As the dust settled on an unforgettable day of competition, thoughts turned to the future, with the realisation that Albie and Monty would now carry the mantle of defending champions into the next year's tournament. With their skills honed and their spirits high, the journey towards another title defence was already underway, promising even more thrilling moments on the Real Tennis court.

Lee Chaffey, Director of Sport