St Mary's Calne
The PGSM Family Tennis Tournament is a much-loved annual event that brings together pupils and family members of all ages for a day of competitive and social tennis. More than just a tournament, it's a celebration of community, sportsmanship, and a shared passion for the game. This year’s event saw an incredible turnout, with 100 players taking to the courts across three tournaments running side by side: the Wright Cup, Gray Cup, and the Riley Cup. With players ranging from 11 years old to, let’s just say, life’s more experienced, the atmosphere was lively, welcoming, and full of energy. The tournament was played across 20 courts featuring a mix of clay, hard, and astro surfaces, adding variety and challenge to the games.
In the tiered finals, we witnessed a fantastic standard of play across all three tournaments. While the Wright and Gray Cup finals were being battled out on the astro, the Riley Cup was starting over on the hard courts. As players were being crowned champions within their tiered events, the crowds started surrounding the finals courts and the atmosphere was building. It was fantastic to see our pupils showing the courage to perform in front of so many spectators and perform very well too. As you will have heard before, sport doesn’t build character, it reveals it, and our pupils have an abundance of character at St Mary’s.
On to the presentations where we held the Wimbledon Ballot to win tickets for the fifth day of the championships. Congratulations to Tara M, Coco B, Florence F, Esme H and Livy D who will all be going to this year’s Wimbledon Championships on Court No.1 to watch the very best players in the world showcase their character and ability.
With awards being handed out to many players for their achievements, it was a fitting and humble speech from Mr Acheson-Gray to round off events with his kind words which added a special touch to the day.
The event was a huge success, bringing together a strong sense of community, healthy competition, and a wonderful display of sportsmanship. It was inspiring to see the courage and skill on display throughout the tournament.
Feedback from players, spectators and staff was overwhelmingly positive. Many commented on the rising standard of play year after year, making each tournament even more exciting than the last.
With the event selling out in just two days, it’s clear there’s huge enthusiasm for this tournament. If you want to play next year, be sure to sign up early!
Tournament Prizes
Pupil Player of the Day: Kitty M - outstanding performance and great sportsmanship!
Partner Player of the Day: Harry W - for impressive teamwork, shot making and consistency.
Good Egg Award: Honor C - recognised for embodying the spirit of fair play and positivity.
Wright Cup
Runners-up: Madeleine G and Richard
Winners: Florrie M and Abby
Gray Cup
Runners-up: Honor I and Harry
Winners: Phoebe C and Nick
Riley Cup
Runners-up: Bluebell B and Lola
Winners: Cecily A and James
Mr Jonathan Hayes, Director of Tennis