The Shepparton District Tennis Association’s 2023-24 campaign starts Friday night, albeit with a handful of lower-grade teams not fronting up from last season.
Association president Murray Akers explained the absences of some clubs, nonetheless looking to the season optimistically.
“It’s great to be getting another season under way,” Akers said.
“We’re probably down three teams, which is a bit disappointing, but it’s still looking like an exciting comp.
“The interesting thing is most teams, which run three men and three women, seem to be struggling for ladies.”
The reported shortage in female participation across the district is doubtless a factor in the withdrawal of numerous sides from the competition’s A3 division, leaving Shepparton North, Central Park, Karramomus and St Andrews remaining.
“If ladies are more readily available, I’m certain we wouldn’t have lost three teams in that group,” Akers said.
“They’re just struggling to get enough on the court, which is a problem for the association.”
As with any outdoor event in a volatile Goulburn Valley climate, the many weather variables are expected to make their presence known as the season progresses towards summer.
With no generational rainfall forecast this time — with last year’s devastating floods still fresh in everyone’s memories — Akers keeps weary of the returning sun.
“We’re pretty confident we won’t have dramas, because the floods should be no issue so I think we’ll be right,” Akers said.
“Heat could be our biggest issue later in the season, though.”
27°C