What a brilliant season it has been for Marnhull A team. With only one match affected by the weather and with two talented new members, Tom Lee and Lorna Woods, for the first time we have won the Shaftesbury League. Several of us came and supported the team for their last match against the strong Stourpaine A side, which produced some brilliant rallies, many sudden death deuces and really great tennis. That win confirmed we were top of the league even though other teams had not been able to finish all their matches! Our other team members all played their part, Jeremy Hamer (our chairman), James Holroyd, Sam Rose, Mark Lockley, Nick Wood, Judith Hussey, Louella Hamer and myself, Liz Lammas.

It must be said we have lots of good men, but considering we have a B team as well we sometimes struggle to get enough women, though this year it worked out perfectly. We are concerned for the future, however, as us ladies (except Lorna) are in their mid sixties, and it it is demanding playing 4 full sets, 2 mixed and 2 same sex, sometimes finishing late into the evening. Injuries are always a concern and increasing grandparent duties means we may struggle next year, so if you are a keen player and would like to join our team, do get in touch!

-- Liz Lammas, A Team Captain

The Marnhull B Team were runners up in Division 2 of the Shaftesbury League this year. They won 5 of the 8 matches played, losing 2, and although they won an equal number of sets against the League winners, Pythouse B, the match was lost on game difference.  Despite a very soggy start to the season in May, only one match was postponed for bad weather and the League concluded in July. 

Playing at Home or Away, the tennis was competitive and spirited, yet friendly and enjoyable.  The post-match refreshments are always eagerly anticipated and Marnhull players always provide good food, including home-baked cakes for visiting team, and it is great to get to know members of other clubs after the matches.

-- Christophe Stourton, B Team Captain  

Click here to see the final points tally for the Shaftesbury League 2024.

If you are a member of Marnhull Tennis Club and are interested in playing for one of our sides, please contact Liz Lammas (lizlammas@me.com) or Christophe Stourton (xtophe@catalysm.com).

Shaftesbury League 2023

Last year the Marnhull A team came a close 4th in Division 1, narrowly losing out on 3rd place by just four points!

Matching that performance in Division 2, the Marnhull B team also ended the 2023 season in 4th place.

Click here to see a full spreadsheet of the results as well as past performances by year.