UWA Maali have claimed the bronze position in the first year of the University Tennis League (UTL) after defeating Deakin University on Thursday 22 August 2024.
In pursuit for the title, UWA Maali travelled to Melbourne to compete in the UTL finals series to take on the University of Sydney in the Semi Final on Wednesday 21 August at Albert Park. The fiercely contested battle involved a seven-match rubber where UWA Maali took on the Sydney side in four singles matches and three doubles matches.
After a slow start, UWA were able to secure an even tie with the opposition. The last two matches fell into the hands of the rivals. The decider involved a gruelling four-hour match, Luca Katsamakis was toppled by his opponent in an epic three-set match that secured the win for the University of Sydney.
After suffering a narrow loss, the blue and gold team were desperate to finish the tournament in third and claim bronze in the third-place match against Deakin. The inspired UWA Maali team hit the courts with ferocity, as the entire squad collectively beat Deakin University in comprehensive fashion. UWA Maali secured wins in every discipline, defeating their rivals 6-0 rubber, winning each match convincingly.
UWA vs Deakin University Results:
Men’s Singles
Kendrick Chia won 6-2 6-2
Alfonso Caldron won 6-2 6-3
Women’s Singles
Saanvi Tak won 6-1 6-0
Scarlett Blydenburgh won 6-0 6-2
Men’s Doubles
Luca Katsamakis & Max Weir won 6-3 6-3
Women’s Doubles
Mahaylia White & Scarlett Blydenburgh won 6-0 6-2
"We have a great squad who fought hard in every match from the first point to the last point. Also, there was great camaraderie on display between all players. The support for each other on the court and off was fabulous."
UWA UTL Coach Simon Harper
Congratulations to UWA Maali on securing third position in the first year of the University Tennis League. A special acknowledgement to the outstanding work and dedication of UWA UTL Coach Simon Harper, in supporting and preparing the athletes during this competition.
Find out more about the University Tennis League, visit UniSport Australia’s website.