Competition · Sunday 6 September 2026

Club Championships Finals Day 2026: a day of drama and great tennis

Finals Day is always one of the highlights of the Sandal calendar, and this year’s edition did not disappoint — a good turnout of members and families came down to Courts 3 and 4 to see this year’s champions crowned.

Junior Girls Final

A close, hard-fought battle, contested throughout in a fair and friendly spirit. In the end Sia came through to take the title, in a match that did real credit to both players.

Junior Boys Final

A rain delay pushed back the start, but once the covers came off the tennis that followed was some of the best of the day — the standard in the first set alone was outstanding. Max took the title, with conditions improving significantly for the rest of the afternoon.

Vets Doubles Final

Geoff and Vanessa Perrott were in dominant form, proving too strong for a spirited but ultimately outgunned pairing of Patrick Bywater and Paul Thompson.

Men’s Singles Final

The biggest crowd of the day gathered for the Men’s Singles Final, and it lived up to the billing. Max, fresh from winning the Junior Boys title barely an hour earlier, brought real energy and belief to his challenge against defending champion Michael Samaan. It was a strong and spirited effort — but the wall that is Mike proved too solid on the day, and the reigning champion retained his title. The trophy stays with Michael for another twelve months; on this showing, Max will not be far away from adding his name to it in years to come.

Still to come

A handful of events could not be completed in time and will be decided on a second Finals Day, Sunday 26 September — including the Men’s Doubles, Vets Singles and Mixed Doubles finals. Details to follow.

Thank you to everyone who entered, played, umpired or came down to support. Finals Day only works because so many of you get involved. See you on the 26th for round two.

Earlier news

Committee minutes and club papers are available from the Honorary Secretary, Patrick Bywater — patrickbywater@aol.com.