The Northumberland Interclub 2023 tennis series takes its first serve across the Hunter and Central Coast this weekend.
The regional team-based format will pit players – from throughout Port Stephens, Newcastle, Lake Macquarie, Gosford, Toukley and Charmhaven – against each other in premier, open, women and junior categories.
Tennis NSW regional manager Andrew Yapp said the format builds on a local initiative.
“Newcastle and Lake Macquarie kicked off the pilot in 2021,” he explained.
“So, the expansion of the Northumberland Interclub Series shows there is a strong desire for more team-based playing opportunities in tennis.
“The various categories provide for a range of abilities and encourage a true club feel for venues throughout the region.”
Total Tennis Lake Macquarie, Lake Macquarie Tennis Centre, Nelson Bay Tennis Club, Toukley Tennis Club, Gosford Tennis Club, Discover Sports Newcastle and Bar Beach Tennis Club will lob into the premier division.
The open section includes combatants from Total Tennis Lake Macquarie, Lake Macquarie Tennis Centre, Bar Beach Tennis Club, Discover Sports Newcastle, Adamstown Tennis Club, Charmhaven Tennis Club and Caves Beach Tennis Club.
Five teams are eyeing off success in the women’s draw: Bar Beach Tennis Club (2), Total Tennis Lake Macquarie (2) and Caves Beach Tennis Club.
The biggest pool, however, is the juniors, with Discover Sports Newcastle, Total Tennis Lake Macquarie, Lake Macquarie Tennis Centre, Lauren Roach Tennis, Toukley Tennis Club, Charmhaven Tennis Club, Gosford Tennis Club, Bateau Bay Tennis Centre, Caves Beach/Redhead (joint) locking horns.
Total Tennis Lake Macquarie coach and operator Matt Abbott was a driving force behind the concept.
“The Northumberland Interclub Series fills a gap that existed for competitive playing opportunities outside regular tournaments,” he said.
“Internal competitions at tennis clubs are going well.
“But, this gives them a chance to compete against one another and foster a sense of identity while providing additional playing pathways and social opportunities.”
The Northumberland Interclub Series starts on Saturday 20 May, running across eight rounds in a home-and-away format, culminating in a finals gala day at a key regional venue.
For draw information including locations and times, visit
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