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REAL TENNIS
Fixtures Secretary: Chris Marguerie, (cmarguerie@doctors.org.uk, 07775904895)
If there are matches or weekends you particularly like the look of please contact the match manager.
The format is generally doubles and the hospitality from the various clubs makes for a great day. The contribution to the Dedanist Society is unchanged and collected by John McVittie using GoCardless. The post of Dedanist treasurer may change during this year.
May I ask the match managers to send photographs and a brief summary of the day's action to Tory Wall (torywall@hotmail.com), who will post the results on the Dedanist website.
To view the Fixture List for 2024/25 please click on this Word Button
Match Reports......
Dedanists v Petworth House - 30th March 2025
On a beautiful Spring Day 7 Dedanists gathered to play at Petworth risking all that playing Sport on Mothering Sunday brings. Two Dedanists had their first outing, Nick Keating and James Charatan. Given their banter and smiling faces, both clearly had a good day. With the court bathed in sunshine our cheerful marker Louis Gordon kept all quietly amused without a murmur of discontent on either side. The tennis was fiercely fought and the outcome of two rubbers to each side seemed appropriate. A super lunch cooked by James Charatan, a member at Petworth, was quaffed with generous supplies of wine. Thank you, James, for lunch and for marshaling proceedings so well. Another great day at Petworth House.
Results.
Lucy Hutchinson / Oliver Harris v James Charatan / Robin Russell
6/4 6/4 (Petworth)
Richard Stables / Martin Fox v Yuri Kugler / Nick Keating
3/6 4/6 (Dedanists)
Jane Taylor / Stuart Ritchie v Giles Stogdon / David Phillips
6/2 2/6 3/6 (Dedanists)
Tim Crow / David Sewell v James Charatan / David Bevan-Thomas
6/1 6/5 (Petworth)
Dedanists West Country Weekend to Hyde and Canford Clubs
22nd and 23rd March 2025
Dorset. On the Road to Bridport Lulworth Cove Beach, Wareham
At the end of March seven intrepid Dedanists travelled to the soft rolling Hills and beautiful coastline of Dorset, providing us with one of the most successful visits by the Dedanists to the West country in recent years. Each player enjoyed a set of singles, a further set of doubles or equivalent at both the Hyde and Canford clubs.
The highlights of the trip included Jenny Jones, who nimbly hit great balls to almost perfect length, comfortably winning all her matches. Her pet Labrador Milly behaved immaculately and at no stage barked. Jenny, AKA Barbara Woodhouse, also played for Hyde and won, so taking my MM licence I called the result in Jenny’s match a draw. I am never ashamed to be biased in favour of the Deds.
Peter Dean having played and won his two matches at Canford can now claim to have played at all the courts in the UK.
Jonathan Ellis Miller proudly wore his go-faster footwear (see photograph) and delighted himself and the onlookers at Canford after hitting the winning gallery. Surprisingly, there were only 2 winning galleries over the whole weekend, the other being deliberately struck by Chris Marguerie, who played well but had tough opponents throughout.
Robin Russell has my award for bonhomie. One must wonder if his cheerful demeanour contributes to his numerous successes.
Peter Mason was again formidable, particularly when his underarm twist found its length also notably, he charmed us and his opponents both on and off court.
Lastly, the match manager found it a pleasure to herd the above players to two tennis courts and afterwards on Saturday to dinner at Cote Brasserie in Dorchester. He was particularly happy and relieved that everybody turned up in the right place and at the right time. Just losing to Hyde 4 ½ to 5 ½ rubbers and comfortably winning at Canford by 9 rubbers to 1 was a great success. The result at Canford, unusual for the Dedanists, was truly the icing on the cake on what was one of the most enjoyable of weekends of tennis.
Next Year I look forward to taking another group of enthusiastic Dedanists as well as any well-behaved dogs like Milly. Over to you, Barbara.
David Phillips MM
Dedanists v Hardwick 4th January 2025
Match result: Dedanists 3 – Hardwick 2
A freezing day, a warm welcome, excellent food, great tennis and a WIN for the Dedanists!
A frosty still morning with the important first task of the day getting the log burner roaring (well done to Peter from Hardwick who got there early to do this). The joy of old cold buildings in winter is that they are slow to heat up! Everyone had been warned to wear multiple layers, however several Dedanists bravely demonstrated their tough exteriors donning only short sleeved shirts and shorts.
First on for the Dedanists were Yuri Kugler and Michael Llewellyn-Jones. Hardwick made a strong start leading 4-1 before the Dedenists got going and worked their way back to 5-5 and took the next game and the set Yuri blasting the ball into the dedans. On to the 2nd set, when the Dedanists took the lead before Hardwick fought back to even the play at 4-4. Nip and tuck all the way to 5-5 but Hardwick were not giving up. The Dedanists pair pulled out another blast into the dedans, set a short chase and held their nerve winning the set and the Match 2-0. A fantastic match for the spectators.
Charlotta Ginman and Jonny Westcar were on next and stormed ahead taking the first set 6-0. The Dedanists pair were playing well together, dominating the service end, with Jonny’s railroads working well and Charlotta returning anything that came her way with her strong volleys. Hardwick managed to get to service end more often and the games were more even, however Charlotta and Jonny were a solid team and prevented their opposition from getting a foothold and won the second set 6-1 and the match 2-0.
In the third match of the day Hardwick made a strong start and staying ahead until they were leading 5-3. Oliver’s serving was challenging the opposition and the Dedanists pair upped their game, levelling the score 5-5. John and Oliver were at 40 – owe15 in no time and took set point and the set 6-5. In the second set our Dedanist pair dominated the service end - and it was neck and neck until 4-4. At which point Hardwick returned to the Service end and, using their home court advantage to place shots out of reach, quickly winning the next 2 games - levelling the score to 1 set all. The battle so far had been hard fought and held the attention of the spectators, however lunch was ready, so an executive decision was made to start the third set at 4-4. Hardwick were clearly very hungry, winning two games in a row to win the match 2-1.
Match manager Candida Nicholls and Dedanists fixtures Secretary Chris Marguerie were up next. Having never played together before, but often faced each other across the net, they made a strong team and took every advantage of their Rec 15 every game to win the first set 6-1. In the second set the Hardwick pair swapped, and Candida was facing leftie David Fox - although she has played him often, she gave up a few points against his challenging serve. Chris’s calm approach helped to keep the Dedanists pair playing strongly to take the 2nd set 6-3, so another win for the Dedanists.
The Dedanists now 3-1 up, saw Kim Walker and Anton Eisdell on court. The spectators had by now reduced in numbers - which was not surprising as despite the roaring fire and all heaters going strong and many layers being worn, it was brrrrrrr. The Hardwick pair, Caroline Fox and Rebecca Kashti, established Hardwick players, were dominant from the start, demonstrating tidy shots into the corners and were leading 5-3. The Dedanist pair were volleying well and took the next game, which was followed by another 40-40 game which Hardwick won taking the first set 6-4. In the second set all four players upped their games and you would not have known this was the higher handicap players on court – challenging serves, shots closely whizzing above the net cord, strong volleying and good chases! With Kim rushing all over the court and Anton’s serves proving more challenging, the Dedanist pair’s determination paid off winning the second set 6-4. The third set started at 3-3. Anton’s serving got even better and Kim was on fire, but somehow the Harwick pair laid better and better chases (consistently better than 2) and won the set 6-3 and the match 2-1.
Altogether a splendid day of tennis. The chilly air on court encouraged many of us to up the pace to keep warm and others were determined not to shed any layers and risk getting cold.
At lunch there were twenty one people sitting around the large table in the Hardwick dedans for a very sociable gathering. The curtains were shut to retain the heat, providing a very cozy atmosphere to enjoy some wine and the superb food cooked by the Whittakers.
Detailed Results:
Yuri Kugler
v
Mike Box
James Maclachlan
6/5 6/5
2 - 0
Chrlotta Ginman
Jonny Westcar
v
Ian Whittaker
Vaughan Williams
6/0 6/1
2 - 0
Oliver Wise
John McVittie
v
Peter Mawson
Fergus Brownlee
6/5 4/6 4/6
1 - 2
Candida Nicholls
Chris Marguerie
v
Sarah Whittaker
David Fox
6/1 6/3
2 - 0
Anton Eisdell
Kim Walker
v
Rebecca Kashti
Caroline Fox
4/6 6/4 3/6
1 - 2
RESULT:
Dedanists beat Hardwick 3 - 2
Match Managers for the day:
Ian Whittaker for Hardwick House. Candida Nicholls for the Dedanists.
Report by Candida Nicholls 05/01/25
Michael Llewelyn-Jones
Dedanists v Middlesex University Real Tennis Club
Sunday 8th December 2024
Eight Dedanists were recruited for the annual fixture with MURTC at their excellent court in Hendon: one singles and three doubles rubbers were played, with a welcome break mid-way for lunch. The Dedanists’ contribution towards the catering was a magnum of Medoc cru artisan 2019, recommended by Dedanist Mark Savage MW, which was consumed with obvious enthusiasm, (as predicted).
Regrettably, I have to report that the team performed with less aplomb away from the lunch table: match results were as follows (Dedanists first):
Simon Martin & Jonathan Ellis-Miller v Danny Leboff & Julian Ashby 0/6 1/6 LOST
Catherine Walker v Peter Joy 6/2 6/3 WON
Charles Heaton & Anton Eisdell v Peter Brunner & Peter Joy 2/6 4/6 LOST
Chris Marguerie & Martin Village v Michael Carling & Toby Carling 2/6 2/6 LOST
I’m afraid I forgot to take any photos on the day (too preoccupied with the magnum, I suppose), but here is a photo of MURTC’s elegant court, albeit taken on another occasion…
And here is a photo of (some of) the Dedanists at lunch, from last year’s match…
Alastair Robson (Match Manager)
HAMSTERS v DEDANISTS 17 OCTOBER 2024
Match Manager & Reporter: Ian Harris
Goodness only knows what I did to deserve this “honour”, but I found myself press-ganged into match-managing and match reporting the fixture this year.
Reporting on a match that one has managed oneself feels like an invitation to indulge in intellectual onanism. Still, I feel bound to say that the match was managed brilliantly this year, thanks mostly to the sterling efforts of John East for The Hamsters, with me playing second match-management fiddle.
Everyone who we expected to turn up, turned up. Everyone had a good game and./or a good lunch and/or enjoyable company. In most cases, people had all of those things.
The autumn weather smiled on us this year at Hampton Court Palace, which adds to the joy of this midweek, daytime fixture.
The grub was excellent, with pies aplenty, a choice of fish, meat or vegetable this year, with peas and corn as sides, plus a choice of sweet pies for afters.
I utterly failed in my duty to provide photographs from this fixture, until I remembered that aspect of the role, just as John was clearing away the last of the food. At least the sole picture will give you a sense of the damage Hamsters and Dedanists can do to a magnificent spread.
I think I have done a better job of recording all the scores, which the image below summarises in a handy table. After the first three rubbers, The Hamsters led by two rubbers to one. The last two rubbers were the closest ones, shared evenly between The Hamsters and The Dedanists, allowing the home team to prevail narrowly, by three rubbers to two.
But everyone wins when a match is this enjoyable. Plus, of course, The Dedanists always win financially; the combination of Dedanists fees, plus the generosity of those good-hearted Hamsters, raised £390 for The Dedanists cause.
To round off a long day, I then hot-footed it from the Palace to a dungeon in a tunnel underneath Waterloo Station, to see MCC and Hurlingham Pigeons member Ian Falconer play…in a play. I ended up “match reporting” on that too – click here if you want to know more about that.
I utterly failed in my duty to provide photographs from this fixture, until I remembered that aspect of the role, just as John was clearing away the last of the food. At least the sole picture will give you a sense of the damage Hamsters and Dedanists can do to a magnificent spread.
The Warwickshire Weekend, 7th, and 8th September 2024
Once again, the season started with this popular couplet of fixtures first at Leamington followed by Moreton Morrell.
The Leamington club’s renowned hospitality combined with competitive tennis provided us with great entertainment.
James Holden and Matthew Fattorini opened our account with a thrilling encounter of high-quality tennis. James was, as always, robust in his defence and fileted well with Matthew whose backhand placed the opposition under relentless pressure. My “shot of the day” was by James who standing at the servers end level with the second gallery fended off a firmly struck volley by striking the ball into the heart of the winning gallery. Was this to be a good omen for the day? The game proceeded to and froe and the opposition of Henry Bryan and Paul Brennan were pushed deep into the court where they eventually succumbed to James and Matthew 4-6, 6-5 and 6-5.
Dedanists 1: LTCC 0
David Phillips and Giles Stogdon were next in the attack against the youthful Charley Thomas (new to the game) and the spritely Bob Compton. The Dedanists pair struggled to get into the game owing to the accurate Charles who simply rebuffed all attacks, ably supported by Bob until the Dedanists pair were overcome 2-6 and 3-6.
Dedanists 1: LTCC 1
John Tacchi and Charles Heaton took on Peter Mason and Bil Slora. John and Charles played beautiful relaxed and relentless tennis punishing Peter and Bil 6-1, 6/0. A bruising affair for the hosts.
Dedanists 2: LTCC 1
Lunch of Cod fillet and Ratatouille followed by Eton Mess washed down by club claret (given by the Leamington home team) was enjoyed by all after which play recommenced.
Michael Llewellyn-Jones and Tony Harrison played the challenging pair of Andy Dalton and John Devis the latter pair who were eager to regain some control of this fixture. The hosts clicked well together with both players forcing the ever-enthusiastic Michael and Tony onto the back foot. Under the barrage they eventually they fell 5-6, 2-5.
Dedanists 2: LTCC 2
Could Fiona Harrison and Chris Marguerie regain our momentum against the strong pairing of Norman Hyde and John Yarnall? The first set went comfortably their way 6-1, but then the pressure cranked up and the two wily campaigners took the second 5-6. Could our fortunes be slipping away. Indeed not, Fiona and Chris worked well together and in two tense games brought us over the finishing line 6-4 to give the Dedanists at least a draw in the day.
Dedanists 3: LTCC 2
To the final rubber of Jenny Jones and Robin Russell, Robin playing in his first match as a Dedanist, challenged David Howells and Alastair Robson (LTCC MM.). Robin smiled throughout hitting the Dedans seemingly at will also volleying like a 50 handicapper. Jenny’s timing and touch complemented events with some super backhands under the winning gallery. The opposition did not have a chance and the Dedanists started the season with a commanding and rare win at this fixture. Sadly, we did not hear any trumpets!
Final Result - Dedanists 4: LTCC 2
Dinner took place at the club which started with the most welcome fizz generously provided by Alastair Robson followed by a Ham Hock Terrine, Slow –braised Ox Cheek and Chocolate Tart with raspberries. Charles Heaton also generously provided 3 bottles of club port which were consumed with immense pleasure.
Alastair Robson delivered a witty and eloquent speech which was responded to by David Phillips on behalf of the Dedanists. David’s thanks were widespread to our hosts and he finished with a summary of the recent superlative achievements of the British Real Tennis Academy run by the society; he also mentioned the growth in the Girls Academy and both accolades were greatly applauded. The spirit of the Dedanists’ camaraderie was evident throughout the day.
David Phillips (Match Manager)
MMTCC - Sunday 8th September 2024
How appropriate that the second anniversary of the Accession of King Charles III should be spent having 'royal' fun as a scratch team of Dedanists took on MMTCC at their Bickley court in the Warwickshire countryside.
Six doubles rubbers were all highly entertaining from the dedans:
First up for the Dedanists were Tony Branfield and Michael Llewellyn-Jones in a level contest against David Harris and Harry Tippet. Despite some stunning drives from Harry, Tony and Michael were too steady and took the first set 6-3. The second set followed a similar pattern, with Tony and Michael easing to a 5-2 lead at which point David and Harry buckled down and fought back to 5-4. Sadly, for MMTCC it was too little, too late and the Dedanists triumphed 6-3, 6-4.
Dedanists 1: MMTCC 0
Next up were Charles Heaton and Robin Russell against a Moreton pairing of Terence Drane and Alastair Robson who were owing ½ 15. Charles and Robin made their handicap advantage tell as Charles played some sharp drives and volleys whilst Robin was 'steady as she goes'. Robin won a tight(ish) first set with an ace. The second was one way traffic for the most part – with Charles and Robin offering no quarter to record a 6-4, 6-1 win.
Dedanists 2: MMTCC 0
The pre-lunch match saw Dedanists James Holden and Tony Harrison take on Paul (Pablo) Smith and Simon Hobson with a receive ½ 15 owe 15 advantage. It was a keenly fought contest with some quite extended rests. Thanks largely to clean hitting from Simon, MMTCC notched their first set of the day, but the Dedanists fought back strongly to take the second, having switched receivers at the changeover. MMTCC switched back for the decider (played from 4:4) and regained the momentum to win the third.
Final score a win for MMTCC 3-6, 6-3, 4-6.
Dedanists 2: MMTCC 1.
After a splendid lunch featuring a particularly delicious plum pie there was a hard fought encounter to ease digestion. Giles Stogden and Chris Marguerie, owing 15, proved too strong for MMTCC's pairing of David Aldwincle and Joel Woolf. Both sets were close, but Chris and Giles always looked like they had the upper hand as they ran out winners 6-5, 6-4.
Dedanists 3: MMTCC 1.
Although it was now impossible for Moreton to win the match, Bernie Spratt and Georgie Messenger from MMTCC threw the kitchen sink at Jenny Jones and Fiona Harrison. Owing ½ 15 was too much for Jenny and Fiona to cope with in the first set as they fell 1-6. It was so different in the second though, as the Dedanists pairing dug deep and served very well to take it 6-5. Sadly, from a Dedanists perspective however, Jenny and Fiona couldn't maintain their momentum and MMTCC took the decider. Final score 1-6, 6-5, 4-6.
Dedanists 3: MMTCC 2.
And so, to the final rubber featuring David Philips and John Tachi (owing ½ 15) against MMTCC's two Peters – Mason and Lewis (P.L. playing wrong handed). The two Peters were in fine and confident form and there was simply nothing David and John could do to stave off defeat, losing 1-6, 2-6.
Final result - Dedanists 3: MMTCC 3.
Somehow a draw seemed the right result at the end of a day of good sport and fellowship. All enjoyed the excellent hospitality of MMTCC and the fair and accurate marking of Moreton's new head professional, Darren Long.
James Holden (Match Manager)
LRTA v The Dedanists'
Hardwick House, 21st July 2024
We had a great Day at Hardwick House. Carl Snitcher who normally manages this match couldn’t be present. Much thanks to Carl and to Patricia Tomalin for the match management. Also, fabulous food courtesy of Pat Tomalin. The tennis was fiercely contested with most matches being finely balanced.
The service end was the place to be however. A brilliant end to the season. We are considering a similar time for the fixture next year.
Chris Marguerie
Please click on the Word Doc button to view all the match results
The Dedanists v Seacourt 17th April
On Sunday 17th April, the Dedanists played a match V Seacourt on Hayling Island.
A lovely day to be by the seaside and an important one too as this match had not taken place for many years. Dedanists members Tony Branfield, Bruce Hogarth-Jones, and Simon Talbot-Williams all travelled to the south coast to take part.
The 4-0 win for Seacourt did not detract from a great match played in excellent spirit. A full Sunday lunch was available from the Seacourt restaurant and all the travelling Dedanists took full advantage! I look forward to managing this match again next year and for many years to come.
Paul Weaver
Matt Simpson & Tony Branfield
Jess Garside, Mark Gillespie,
Simon Talbot-Williams & Paul Weaver
Matt Walker & Bruce Hogarth-Jones
West Country Weekend 16th and 17th March 2024
What would you do if you are out in Dorchester on a cold evening with 3 other Dedanists and you came across a young lady standing holding a tray with a glass of white wine. One might be curious. We found out that she was bringing attention to passers-by that a local restaurant was having a pre-opening evening and wanted trial customers. Well, it didn't take much for the MM to be persuaded that this was the restaurant for us. The evening turned out to be a lot of fun. After we had consumed several rounds of Tapas with appropriate beverages, we were further drawn in by the restaurant owner, of Portuguese extraction, on Valerie O’Donnell’s left, who plied us with additional complimentary food and wine. Was this a good omen or would we pay the price?
HYDE. Saturday 16th March
In the morning, we gathered at the Hyde club where we were greeted by our charming hosts John and Susie Pearson. Beforehand we had agreed that the format of the day would be 2 rubbers per player consisting of one set to 6 for the singles and 8 for the doubles. Their head professional, Jez Brodie, was playing a competition in Canford, and therefore we were introduced to the new assistant professional Caerwyn Thomas, no guessing his origins. For a young fellow relatively new to the game, he conducted himself well and marked clearly and accurately. Unfortunately, despite the smiles and jollity before we knew what was happening, we were 4 rubbers down. The MM was starting to regret the frivolity of the previous night. In ours singles matches Tony Branfield and the MM managed to steady the ship and then we watched a great game of doubles by Graham Findlay, on his first outing for the Dedanists, playing with Tony Branfield. This was a closely fought affair but sadly we fell 7:8. If we were desperate, we could have claimed a draw since Jon Fistein was called upon to play for the Hyde team; 3 Dedanists on court. Jon could not find a polite way of letting his partner down or was it his desire to win either way it was a win for Hyde. Sadly, the next two games went the home team's way until Giles Stogdon held up the rear winning a tough match against Laura Pentreath, an accomplished lawn tennis player. Well, played Giles and thank you.
Mark Brinson v Chris Marguerie 6:2
Phillip & Jane Thicknesse v Valerie O’Donnell & David Phillips 8:3
David Noyes v John Fistein 6:4
Mark Brinson & Laura Pentreath v Chris Marguerie & Giles Stogdon 8:1
David Noyes v Tony Branfield 3:6
Philip Thicknesse v David Phillips 1:6
Jonathan Pentreath & Jon Fistein v Graham Findlay & Tony Branfield 8:7
Jane Thicknesse v Valerie O’Donnell 6:3
Jonathan Pentreath v Graham Finlay 6:3
Laura Pentreath v Giles Stogdon 5:6
Hyde win 7 rubbers to 3
Evening
Most of the team had camped out in Dorchester at the Premier Inn which evoked an Esprit de corps. Before dinner some gathered to watch Wales play Italy 21:24 which produced much pleasure for some but not the match manager, from Swansea. Fortunately, the MM has a short-term memory loss which in this case helped. Eight of us rendezvoused at Cote Brasserie, a consistent and predictable affair. Giles Stogdon, a Dedanist starwort, thinks he now knows the full Cote menu by heart, something he is not proud of! Despite giving the MM a hard time, for his choice of restaurants, it was a most enjoyable evening with much hilarity. There was also in depth discussion of the recent achievements of several members of British Real Tennis academy which evoked a sense of pride in our cause.
CANFORD. Sunday 17th March.
On the Sunday we were enthusiastically greeted by James Ryan, Canford Head Professional. The format of the day was similar to the Saturday. Sadly, our merry band of 7 was diminished by one owing to malaise. The first 2 rubbers went our way, Jon Fistein had clearly drunk the correct amount of alcohol to optimize performance since he easily won his two matches. The MM thought the alchemy of the previous evening must be working only for the next two to go against us. Then Graham Findlay and the MM played well to overcome the tough Canford pairing. Chris Marguerie as always gave his all but as on the Saturday frequently found himself pinned down at the receivers end which proved decisive. Sadly, in terms of the last 3 rubbers the wheels came off the Dedanist bus. Well as I often say never forget , there is always next year.
Steve Bennett vs. Jon Fistein 4:8
Steve Bennett & Philip Chissell vs. Jon Fistein & Tony Branfield 2:8
Philip Chissell vs. Tony Branfield 8:4
Iain Fullerton vs. Graham Findlay 8:5
Iain Fullerton & Andrew Gillard vs. Graham Findlay & David Phillips 5:8
Andrew Gillard vs. David Phillips 8:2
Mark Robson vs. Chris Marguerie 8:4
Nick Kiernan vs. Giles Stogdon 8:4
Mark Robson & Nick Kiernan vs. Chris Marguerie & Giles Stogdon 8:0
Canford win 6 rubbers to 3
Dedanists v The MCC - Saturday the 3rd February at Lords
Chris Bray and Alex Hume the IiP apprentice at the MCC contributed to making it another great day at Lords. t was particularly noteworthy to see Hon President Josh Farrall . his replacement as Chairman of the Society, Simon Roundell as well as Former professional , now and Amateur Peter Luck Hille on court and representing the Dedanists' although they, like 22 others on court could have played for either side .That must be some sort of record which is helped if the MM manages both sides!
It was also a first outing for new member Jonny Westcar, playing with Yuri Kugler who were pipped at the post in a closely contested rubber.
All in all it was a most convivial and enjoyable day at Lords.
Carl Snitcher
MCC v The Dedanists', Saturday 3rd Feb 2024 at Lord’s
MCC won 3-2
10:00 - Peter Dean and Giles Stogdon v Peter Luck Hille and Johnny Saunders 6/2 6/3
11:15 - Ben Martin and Catherine Walker v Jonny Westcar and Yuri Kugler 4/6 6/5 6/4
12:30 - Rodger Davies and Simon Mansfield v Martin Harris and Johnny Saunders 5/6 4/6
13:45 - Sebastian Wood and Anton Eisdell v Chris Marguerie and Jonathan Ellis Miller 5/6 5/6
15:00 - Corin Fisher-Jenkins and Ronald Paterson v Simon Roundell and Andrew Lowenthal 6/1 6/2
Not part of the official match
16:15 – Carl Snitcher & Josh Farrall v Paul Rivlin and Martin Village
Dedanist match against Paris. Weekend of the 27-30 January, 2024.
Results:
Paris Players - Dedanist Players Score, first to 10.
Geurout/Fontaine vs Jon Fistein/Ian Machin 9:10
Charton/St John-Webb vs Anthony Bailey/Trudy Machin 3:10
Marinai/ Gil Kressman vs Charles Heaton/Martin Village 8:10
Salmon/Oddo vs Jonathan Ellis-Miller/Simon Cripps 8:10
Smart/Maguet vs A Bailey/T Machin (gave 15 owe 15) 7:10
Salmon/Chapellier vs Chris Marguerie/François Ménage 7:10
Oddo/Chapellier vs C Marguerie/ François Ménage 5:10
Mariani/Mallen vs C Heaton/M Village 4:10
Jeremy Kreitz/Emmauel Foy vs J Ellis-Miller/ S Cripps 8:10
Zolidis/Heasler vs J Fistein/I Machin 8:10
An intrepid team of Dedanists' visited Paris. We received a warm welcome from the Jeu de Paume club. Enormous thanks to Rod McNaughton for his help with the organization, despite just returning from surgery. This was his first day back. We were looked after by the bar team, with an enjoyable cold collation for both days.
Given the characteristics of the Paris court; we had a preparatory hit for a couple of hours on the Friday before a simple repast at Le Petit Retro.
Most players staying in Victor Hugo, or the sister hotel Pascal, both within a 2-3 minute walk of the Jeu de Paume.
Trudy Machin was the player of the weekend, adapting to the court with ease. The Dedanist’s played with intensity and concentration against a strong opposition, with home court advantage. All the matches were keenly fought and could have gone either way. Rod had managed to create matches with balanced handicaps, only two matches required adjustment. An excellent result for the Dedanist’s, especially as we lost 8 nil last year.
At Victors restaurant, we celebrating with members of the Jeu du Paume. Victors provided a great set menu with excellent wine.
On the Sunday we played rolling doubles; using a system, picked up by Jonathan Ellis Miller on a recent tour of the US courts. We were joined by Emmanuel Foy and Jeremey Kreitz, both playing off 60 despite only taking up the game within the last year.
The final repast was a brasserie on Rue Henry Poincore.
I am grateful to Patricia Gallagher for taking photographs, with her customary generosity and flare. It was lovely to see Gil Kressman on court.
I was glad to hear that Charles Heaton and his wife successfully negotiated the French farmers blockade to leave Paris for the Alpes without too much trouble. The rest of us arrived back in the UK to the ASLEF overtime ban.
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A fantastic weekend in Paris!
Dedanists at Queen’s Club; Friday, 2 February 2024
A very fine collection of athletes turned out for this ever popular fixture, and it's greatly appreciated that some of them travelled a good distance to play.
They took to the courts with enthusiasm and expectations running high.
They cut, volleyed, boasted and forced. They served Giraffes, Boomerangs, Underhand Twists, Backhand Dribblers, Railroads and a few which dont have recognised names along with an occasional double fault!
Matches were generally close and many could have gone either way.
Although very many players qualified for both sides to balance matches out a couple guested for the other leaving Tennis the winner as ever!
After play and drinks in the dedans nearly all the players together with some partners as well as Josh and Carl, whom everyone was delighted to see, adjourned for typical hospitality Queen’s provides in the Members Bar where we were also delighted to receive an update from Josh on the Society and the great work the Academy is doing as well as the splendid achievement of some of its squads.
Everyone thanked Nick Browne, who was unable to be there on the day, for arranging a great evening on and off the court.
Subsequently, it was wonderful to hear from the Treasurer “Probably this event will again provide the highest amount for financing our Academies out of all the matches in the year”.
Wow….Thank you to all who made for such a successful fixture.
Tony Friend
Please click on the pdf button to view all the scores for the Match
Fun in The Dedans!
DEDANISTS AT HARDWICK 6th JANUARY 2024
By: John McVittie
Match Result: Hardwick 3 Dedanists 1
Last year the Dedanists won by 3-1 after one game was abandoned because the court had become damp and therefore had to be played at the Oratory. This year the road to the car park at the back of the Court was flooded by the constant rain and so parking was in the Yard.
The first match had only just started when Catherine Hudson suffered a back injury and had to withdraw. John Harrington replaced her and he and Giles Stogdon took on the Hardwick ladies, Sarah Whittaker and Fiona Fountain. In the first set, the ladies demonstrated their knowledge of the court and won 6-1. The second set was won 6-1 by the Dedanists who had by this time got their act together. Because of the late running of the match after the restart it was decided that there should be a 5-5 shoot-out. The Dedanists sped out of the traps and reached 40-0. Hardwick then slowly reeled them in and won the next four points to claim a well deserved win.
In the second match John McVittie stepped in as the travelling reserve to play with Jonny Westcar, a new Dedanist member and member of Hardwick. After Pater Mawson, the wonderful marker (and a Dedanist member) had adjusted the handicaps play commenced. The Dedanists were up against the implacable defence of Ian Whittaker and Fergus Brownlee. The first set passed by with the score being 6-4 to Hardwick. This spurred the Dedanists onto greater efforts and the games went evenly up to 5-5. In the final game at 30-30 what looked like a winning last gallery chase to the Dedanists was thwarted by the court as the ball caught an edge and just went over the last gallery line. Realising that not only were the Dedanists playing Hardwick but also their court, the last point was tamely lost along with the match.
The third match with Yuri and Charlotta playing confidently as a pair led to the first set being won 6-4. Charlotta’s ability to volley two handed into the corners with backspin won a number of points. The second set was shorter with the Dedanists on top of the rests and was finished relatively quickly at 6-1. The score was now Hardwick 2 Dedanists 1.
Possibly because of the excellent lunch the fourth match stared in what the Marker described as “being in an uncoordinated manner”. Jonathan Ellis-Miller and Candida Nicholls our new match manager were not gelling and the set quickly passed by 6-0 to Harwick. Having got their act together, Jonathan and Candida won the second set 6-2. In the decider which started at 3-3 the score went to 4-4 then 5-4 then 5-5. In the final game the Dedanists got 15-0 up and laid down a 2 yard chase to the cheers of the audience. Then 30-0, 40-0 and a win to the Dedanists. Overall score now 2-2.
The last match had three ladies on court together with Anton Eisdell (the Dedanist lady being Kim Walker). Chantelle Harding and Pam Tomalin are a tough pair and working well together steadily headed the Dedanists winning the first set 6-2. Likewise in the second set the Hardwick pair were never headed and ran out winners 5-2 (not sure why 5-2 rather than 6-2 but this will have to remain a mystery).
Much fun was had by all. Final Score Harwick 3 Dedanists 2
DEDANISTS HARDWICK RESULTS
Giles Stogdon
John Harrington
John McVitie
Jonny Westcar
Yuri Kugler
Charlotta Horrell
Johnathan Ellis-Miller
Candida Nicholls
Anton Eisdell
Kim Walker
Sarah Whittaker
Fiona Fountain
JIan Whittaker
Fergus Brownlee
Robin Fountain
Michael Seymour
JSarah Brownlee
Tim Tomalin
Chantelle Harding
Pam Tomalin
1/6 6/5 5/6
Shoot out
4/6 5/6
6/4 6/1
0/6 6/2 6/5
2/6 2/5
All pages before 2022 have now been archived. (See Archive tab)
Dedanists v MURTC
1th December 2022
Ten of the twelve participants in this match were Dedanists, and although we lost to the Middlesex team, in a broader and more generous sense we shared in their victory. It was anyway by no means a whitewash. There were two matches of singles and two of doubles and the score line was three games to one in MURTC's favour. All of us had our moments which were collectively and duly rewarded with an outstanding lunch (delivered by Dedanists Catherine Hudson and John Harrington) involving a variety of the poshest pies anyone could remember eating. The scoreboard looked like this:
MCC v The Dedanists
Saturday 4th of February 2023 at Lords
MCC hosted the Dedanists for a popular and much-enjoyed fixture in early February.
Notably, 18 out of the 20 players were Dedanists and all contributed funds raising £360 for the Society.
Carl Snitcher
RESULTS
MCC first
Deds owe half 15
10 am Robert Rhodes 68/Peter Brunner 62 v Paul Rivlin 64/ Jon Fistien 53 (6-3,6-4) MCC win
Deds owe 15
11.15 Catherine Walker 47/ Giles Stogdon 59 v Christie Marrian 43/ Yuri Kugler 49 (4-6,1-6) Deds win
Lunch 12.45pm
MCC owe 15
1.30.pm Seb Wood 60 /John Thirlwell 71 v James McDermott 79/ Chris Marguiere 64 (6-2,5-6, 6-4) MCC win
2.45 pm Ronald Paterson 39/Roger Pilgrim v Andrew Lowenthal 33/ Stuart Kerr 43 (6-5.6-4) MCC win
MCC WIN 3-1
4 pm John Farrall / Carl Snitcher v Martin Village 62 / Johnny Saunders (this was a friendly rubber and not part of the official match).
The Dedanists were due to have an away match at MRTC over the weekend of 4th/5th March. In the usual way I circulated the membership and due to a poor response (2 positives only ) I have agreed to cancel the fixture having had prior discussion with MRTC.
Guy Egerton-Smith
Dedanists Fixtures Secretary
DEDANISTS AT HARDWICK
7th JANUARY 2023
By: John McVittie
Match Result: Hardwick 1 Dedanists 3
Last year we came second with Hardwick winning 3-2. So we were out for revenge. The weather was terrible with constant rain (but read on........)
The first match Sebastian Lyon and Paul Cattermull started slowly but speeded up when the excellent marker (Peter Mawson – a fellow Dedanists) asked that all players take their dark tops off and play in all white. A number of good chases were forged but the Dedanists prevailed winning the first set 6-2 and the second 6-3 despite the best efforts of Michael Seymour and Robin Fountain.
The second match featured Paul again as Derek Williams woke up on the morning of the match with a sore knee. Thank you Paul! Yuri and Paul lost the first set 3-6 and while valiant efforts were made – including both players going for the same ball (calling, anyone....). Ian Whittaker, the match manager for Hardwick knows the court like the back of his hand and ably aided by Mike Brooksbank won the second set, and the match, 3-6.
The third match featured your truly and Michael Llewelyn-Jones. Michael said that we should force against the higher handicap players and this strategy was adopted and proved successful, the Dedanists winning 6-1, 6-5.
After the usual excellent lunch the fourth match started but towards the end of the first set it was decided that the court was sweating too much so play was abandoned and the match counted as a draw. Bad luck on Martin Harris and Jonathan Ellis-Miller.
The last match was moved to the Oratory where, marked by Ian, the Dedanists ladies prevailed in a close three set match, 6-3, 3-6, 6-3.
End result 3-1 to the Dedanists with one match abandoned.
THE DEDANISTS HARDWICK RESULTS
Sebastian Lyon Michael Seymour 6/2, 6/3
Paul Cattermull Robin Fountain
Yuri Kugler Ian Whittaker 3/6, 3/6
Paul Cattermull Mike Brooksbank
John McVittie Rebecca Kashti 6/1, 6/5
Michael Llewelyn-Jones Tim Tomalin
Jonathan Ellis-Miller Pam Tomalin Match Abandoned
Martin Harris Fiona Fountain
Jenny Jones Chantelle Harding 6/3, 3/6, 6/3
Kim Walker Sarah Whittaker
Trois Tripot (+1) 2022
Dedanists Match Report from Rodger Davis
A reduced squad of five Dedanists, Tony Cooke, Simon Martin, Kim Walker, Ian Wimbush and I travelled to SW France to play in the Trois Tripot +1. Sadly, Jonathan Ellis-Miller sustained a back injury a couple of weeks prior to the tournament and withdrew. Good news is Jonathan has recovered and is back on court.
The usual biannual tournament was delayed by a year due to Covid so, unsurprisingly there was significant interest which contributed to the use of four courts, hence TT+1, this year. Previously used courts were; Bayonne, La Bastide-Clairence and Urrugne the fourth ‘new’ court being Bidarray.
Above: The team at Bidarray. Thank you Kim
Right: The Bidarray Court – Tony serving
There was no match for us on the first day, 13th October, so many thanks indeed to the two Simon’s, ours and Berry (of the TT committee), for arranging a two hour slot for us at Pau. Unfortunately, Kim could not play as she and husband Tim had taken the opportunity for a very special lunch in San Sebastian, shame, but no blame, on them!
Above: Trinquet at Pau
Right: Kim and Tim
Our first tasks on arrival were to collect the court key, wait for the end of a game of Trinquet and then, to install the net. The four boys had two fun hours and a good lunch. The very good news is that there are plans in hand that could return the court to an exclusive Jeu de Paume within the next 3 years or so, a potentially great achievement after 75+ years. It will be a great asset for the game.
To the competition. The Dedanists were drawn in a Round Robin group of seven teams from Jesmond Dene, Manchester, Oxford, Petworth, Prested and Queens. I’m delighted to confirm that we improved, significantly of course(!), on the 2019 result by winning 3-1 against Manchester in Urrugne and drawing with but losing to Prested Bleu by 1 game on countback in Bayonne. If only Simon and I had lost our match 6-3 rather than 6-1!
The overall result was that we valiantly propped up our Round Robin and were drawn to play Newmarket in the plate semi-final on the final day. We lost 1-3 but on the plus side there was a great 6-1 win for Tony and Kim. Well done them.
RT on Trinquet courts was a personal ‘leftie’ education. The low, narrow and shallow pitched, penthouses could make a low struck side wall serve from around hazard second very tricky to receive, the ball coming off low and quickly to often uneven surfaces at the back wall. I’ve been working assiduously on my backhand return of serve since the shaming!
We all agreed, I believe, that Urrugne was the most ‘friendly’ competition court for RT players, luckily we played on it three times achieving the Manchester win there.
Above: Fixing the net at Urrugne
Right: Plate semi-final, Urrugne
Overall our most successful player in terms of average games won/match was Ian closely followed by Tony and Kim. Well done them - and to Simon and me of course! Ian and Tony, keen rugby supporters celebrated appropriately at the finals dinner apart from boosting Guinness sales in Bayonne.
Above: Last night dinner, Chateau d’Arcangues - Ian & Tony
Dinner on the final night was at Chateau D’Arcangues, close to Bayonne. Pre-dinner drinks and canapes were very welcome, followed by a very good dinner. Putting ringer thoughts aside (!!) congratulations to the overall tournament winners, Petworth.
We all had a great time, thank you team, and Tim, for your support. I would encourage Dedanists to join in next time around. It’s great fun and would be great to have two teams there.
Finally thank you so much to the three Simons, the tournament organisers - Simon Mansfield, Simon Berry and Simon Marshall. Also, to all the markers who did a great job – it can be quite difficult to follow the ball on a Trinquet court, apart from the different markings, galleries, on different courts, etc!
Dedanists v Holyport
Holyport - Wednesday 14th December 2022
We had an enjoyably chilly morning/afternoon mid week doubles match at Holyport, who won 4-1. The court was freezing cold, and all who played made sure that they were properly attired. Holyport put up a strong team and home advantage won the day. Holyport player names first below.
Ben Hobkinson & Gary Russell beat Guy Egerton-Smith & Giles Stogdon - 6/1 6/3
George Fowler & Renaud Besnard beat Simon Martin & Andy Bishop - 6/4 6/3
Conor O’Shea & Martin Tate beat Kim Walker & Giles Stogdon - 6/4 4/6 6/5
George Fowler & Renaud Besnard beat Vaughan Williams & Andy Bishop - 6/1 6/5
Alan Everett & Mark Piper lost to Candida Nicholls & John McVittie - 3/6 6/1 4/6
P.S John for Gocardless collections
Guy Egerton-Smith
Match Manager
Dedanists’ Society v Wellington
WRTC Sunday, 4th December 2022
The Dedanists’ Society team thoroughly enjoyed their day at Wellington. We played 5 sets of competitive doubles matches which ended with 2 wins a piece with one match drawn. See below. As usual WRTC laid on an excellent luncheon with both teams participating as per the photo. We very much look forward to our 2023 pre-Christmas match.
Results
9.30 Peter Dean 50 & Michael Llewelyn-Jones 47.7 v Ian Machin 68.8 & Trudi Machin 58.4 Won 6/3 6/2
10.30 Guy E-S 61.6 & Kim Walker 66.3 v James McDermott 80.7 & Alex Thomas 83.8 Lost 0/6 3/6 - Set 1 ignored
11.30 David Enticknap 45.2 & Catherine Walker 49.6 v Simon Roundell 28.8 & Graeme Marks 48.5 Won 6/2 6/2
12.30 Lunch
1.00 Michael L-J 47.7 & Peter Dean 50.0 v Ian Machin 68.8 & Giles Stogdon 60.2 Lost 1/6 1/6
2.00 Chris Marguerie 59 & Jonathan Ellis-Miller 55.1 v Charles O-C 69.7 & Rosie Monk 61.1 Draw 3/6 6/5
A well deserved mid-match lunch, at Wellington RTC.
Dedanists v Manchester
RTC Sunday 13th November 2022
On Saturday 12th November MCC welcomed Manchester RTC to Lord’s which MCC won 5-0. Very much at the last minute Carl Hamill (Manchester Match Manager) agreed that it would be sensible to try and arrange a Dedanist v Manchester match for the following Sunday. Carl had spoken to RTC during the week and they kindly agreed to give us 4 morning courts on Sunday 13th November. With 4 players per team an excellent series of 4 matches duly took place, with the results below, which in effect ended with a win apiece for Manchester & The Dedanists and 2 drawn matches. Time constraints restricted us to 4x2 set matches.
Guy Egerton-Smith
Dedanists Match Manager
Match Results
Carl Hamill 53 & Martin Farnworth 66 v Guy Egerton-Smith 62 & Peter Dean 51 - Dedanists rec owe 15 love - Draw 6-3, 5-6 - 1 set all
Andy Nevett 46 & DJ Moran 54 v James Leeper 55 & Catherine Walker 44 - Level -
Manchester won 6-3, 6-1
Carl Hamill 53 & Andy Nevett 46 v Peter Dean 51 & Catherine Walker 44 - Level -
Draw 5-6, 6-5 - 1 set all
Martin Farnworth 66 & DJ Moran 54 v Guy Egerton-Smith 62 & James Leeper 55 - Dedanists rec owe 15 love - Dedanists won 6-0, 6-3
DEDANISTS v HAMSTERS
20th OCTOBER 2022
Reporter: Ian Harris
Sun setting on Hampton Court Palace
“It’s a hard rain’s a-gonna fall,” said your intrepid reporter to Carl Snitcher, having braved the 3.5-mile high-pass journey from Notting to Primrose Hill in just over 35 minutes.
“There’s a bad moon on the rise,” agreed Carl, gnomically.
We arrived at a rain-soaked Hampton Court Palace in the nick of time; just as well, as your intemporal reporter was playing in the first rubber. Some might argue that our arrival was actually “worse than two”, but a more substantial discrepancy soon revealed itself; the marker’s sheet was showing a lesser handicap for the Dedanists than the sheet that James McDermott & I had been sent.
In order to avoid a major diplomatic incident, James & I acquiesced to the lesser handicap, yet still somehow contrived to win our rubber, albeit narrowly.
Your insipid reporter was involved again in the second rubber, albeit only for the last two sets, as Carl chose to “play his joker”. Tony Friend and I managed to take the matter to a third set before succumbing to the might of Simon Cripps & Richard East – arguably also a Dedanists pair but playing for the Hamsters on this occasion.
The third rubber also saw your decrepit reporter in the action, in the marker’s chair this time, as Paul Cattermull & Graeme Marks made relatively light work of their rubber, albeit with Robert Frost playing in his “Arch” leftie capacity.
On finally staggering away from the court, your incognizant reporter picked up a message that the Prime Minister had resigned. “That’s the second Liz whose expiration has been announced while I was on the real tennis court in the space of six weeks”, I mused, having been informed of the late Queen’s demise by Tony Friend while I was on the Lord’s court.
I thought I might be the tidings-bringer this time, only to discover that most of the group had learnt the demise of Liz Truss some 45 minutes earlier.
Anyway, this was no time to ponder the fate of shambolic politicians – it was time to tuck into the pies before they too were to become a footnote in history. A positive footnote in the case of the pies of course – once again a delicious choice of
· Chicken Ham & Leek;
· Steak & Ale.
Bread and cheese (yes please) and two species of yummy desserts that self-discipline allowed me to avoid, along with the jolly wines on offer.
Thus your temperate reporter just about made it back to the dedans in time for the dénouement of a match between Yarnall & Banks (Hamsters) and Stogdon & Philips (Dedanists) which went down to the deciding game of the deciding set, only to land in the Hamsters favour and leave the match tantalisingly poised at 2-2.
Your incorrigible reporter also marked the deciding rubber, in which Yuri Kugler & Christie Marrian defeated Charlie Kearl & Simon Cripps to settle the match 3-2 to the Dedanists. To be fair on the Hamsters, Simon was playing a second rubber as alternate and match-manager Charlie had been acting as chef and waiter for the magnificent lunch.
The Dedanists’ Society won this match in more ways than one, of course. Once again, those warm-hearted Hamsters chipped in with generous donations to add to the Dedanists’ contributions. Thus we raised £380 from the fixture this year.
There’s no better way to lift the spirits on a gloomy, worrisome day than a day of pastance with Dedanists and Hamsters. Symbolically, as the nation’s political shenanigans moved on to its new phase, the heavy clouds and rain of the morning had lifted to reveal a gorgeously
bright, sunny evening as we all left. Tony Friend took a few charming snaps to capture that memory, along with the earlier snaps from a couple of the matches.
“So foul and fair a day I have not seen”, said Carl, gnomically, as I dropped him home.
“Pass time with good company”, I replied.
Charles Kearl
Hampton Court Gardens, after rain. Photos by Tony Friend
McDermott in Action
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Kearl, CRIPPS, kugler 7 9out of shot), Marrian
The Results
Dedanists v Bristol RTC @ BRTC
Sunday 9th October 2022
We revived the Bristol fixture after a few years absence and I was pleased to take responsibility as the Match Manager and I will continue in that role.
We arrived at BRTC with a team of 7 which was reduced to 6 on the morning of the match as Robert Kilgour sadly had a family bereavement earlier in the day. I had arranged 6 matches but this was reduced to 4 completed matches as Simon Martin suffered a nasty accident in what was going to be the penultimate 5th match on court from which I am pleased to say he has recovered.
The Match result was a win for BRTC 3-1 as follows:-
David Weston & Tony Branfield v Luke Sutor* & Chris Harland - lost 2-6, 2-6
Simon Martin v Alfie Gilbert - won 9-3
Guy Egerton-Smith & Katy Weston v Elliot Watkins* & Ben Brown*- lost 2-6, 4-6
Peter Mason & Tony Branfield v Caspian Rugg* & Dan Brown - lost 2-6, 4-6
Felix Wigzell* & Like Sutor* played in the 5th doubles for BRTC which was cancelled following Simon’s accident on court
*above denotes the 5 young BRTC players.
It was great to have the 5 young players from BRTC against us and it was so good to hear from their parents how much their boys had enjoyed
playing in the match and had benefited from the Dedanists programme at BRTC, under Ben Taylor-Matthews and from Paul Weaver at Queen’s.
Guy Egerton-Smith
Match Manager
Dedanists v Radley
Saturday 10th September 2022
JULIA KENT & CHRISTOPHER MACKARNESS v Liz Fisher & Anton Eisdell
5/6 2/6 (rec 1/2 15)
JOHN MATTHEWS v Liz Leach
6/2 6/3 (owe 1/2 15)
JONATHAN ORDERS v John Harrington
8/1 (rec 1/2 15)
JUSTIN SNOXALL v Michael Llewellyn-Jones
8/7 (rec 1/2 15)
JONATHAN ORDERS & JUSTIN SNOXALL v John Harrington & Michael Llewellyn-Jones
8/2 (rec 1/2 15)
VICTOR TILL & CATHERINE HUDSON v Pam Tomalin & Tim Tomalin
5/6 3/6 (rec 15)
Radley won 4 - 2
Liz Fisher was our Match Manager.
The Warwickshire weekend
3rd and 4th September 2022
The cheerful firing squad pose at Moreton.
LTCC 3rd September
Over the weekend 16 enthusiastic Dedanists gathered for the first matches in the Real Tennis Calendar starting quite rightly at the oldest Real Tennis club in the world. A family bereavement and knee injury were the only clouds that hung over what was otherwise a great weekend. The first match started swimmingly well with John Tacchi and Charles Heaton storming ahead 3 love but then a tough handicap difference, a Virgin Pilot, Ollie Newbury and canny retired accountant, David Howells stole the show with Leamington clinching the first match 4:6/0:6.
The second started in a similar way with the M.M. and the deceptive Giles Stogdon taking the first set to love. The next two sets were another matter with an initial strong defence from John Devis and John Edwards followed by an attack. The M.M. wobbled with some of his returns and despite a steady performance by Giles we lost the next two sets. 6:0/5:6/5:6.
The third match was a singles classic encounter between Paul Cattermull and Matt Fattorini. The Dedans were treated to an elegant floor game which saw a good number of chases laid better than 2, many beaten. After taking the first set Paul proceeded to deliver a series of well worked serves low and hugging the back wall, followed by accurate shots which proved too much for Matt who succumbed 6:4/6:0.
Play was suspended for lunch which consisted of Paella followed by a delicious Rhubarb & strawberry crumble washed down with an Albarino in keeping with the Spanish theme.
Following lunch there was a heavy weight bruising battle between Michael Llewelyn Jones and Ian Hawkey who played against the home team Paul Brennan and Henry Bryan. Energy and determination resulted in long rests with some super retrievals. Michael and Ian fought off several attacks producing some excellent tennis and volleys to win in 3 sets 4:6/6:1/6:4.
Chris Marguerie and Martin Village, Martin’s first time on either the LTCC or MMTCC surfaces, played a considered and steady game against the tricky Miles Buckinghamshire and Jon Davy. After levelling up the sets at one a piece they powered up to take the second to win 4:6/6:3/6:4.
With the Dedanists one match up with one to play the pressure was off Tony Branfield but could we claim that rare victory at LTCC? There was no doubting Tony’s efforts to claim victory for our side. He covered large swathes of court retrieving many shots to keep him in the match. The youthful Joel Armstrong, at least a couple of decades Tony’s junior, had all those frustrating characteristics of a good ball player, new to the Royal game, who would not give up the chase! A splendid match to watch with Tony losing respectably 4:6/3:6.
Result: Dedanists 3 LTCC 3.
We were unable to raise enough individuals to trigger dinner at the club and hence retired to the reliable local Cote Brasserie. Five players were fortunate enough to have the company of Julia, Martin Village’s wife which no doubt improved the tone of the repas.
MMTCC 4th September
The full team, 16 strong, presented to do battle at Moreton. Fortunately, several Dedanists’ could declare dual loyalty and hence play for the home team. Six pairs of doubles were set up with the first commencing at 9.45. In future, I think that we should encourage starting times at 15, 30 and 40 minutes past the hour! The trusty pairing of John Yarnall and Peter Mason took to the floor. John should be commended on bringing his wife, Grace, to the court to celebrate their 58th wedding anniversary. He clearly knows how to give a girl a good time! Spurred on by the great day John peppered the grille/tambour and Peter regained his killer underarm twist after managing back-to-back double faults. It was a close match but there was enough to overpower John Tacchi and Peter Wilson. Coincidentally and unbeknown to me, it was poetic to learn that Peter Wilson had many years ago introduced John Tacchi to the game so it was great that they could play together. 5:6/6:3/6:3.
Up step Paul Cattermull and Julian Sheraton Davis to play Tony Branfield and the random shot generator Jon Lambdon. It was Paul and Julian’s first time on the new floor and before they could settle in Jon & Tony brought an intensity to the contest forcing little rhythm to be established. Some back luck and unforced errors, by their high standards, meant they were under pressure. The opposition had a bisque per set which was excellently called by Tony which resulted in frustration and almost a request for a steward’s enquiry from Paul’s quivering lips which he managed to stifle. There was a whiff in the air of impending doom. 2:6/3:6.
For the third exchange, Ian Hawkey raced over from LTCC having popped in there for an early successful match representing Prested v Leamington consisting of 3 set warm up. Liz arrived with Theo, a gorgeous 3 year black Labrador, who did not make a sound, presumably being hypnotized by the scent carried by several canine owners. Across the net stood Michael Llewelyn Jones, playing for Moreton, fresh from a great victory at Leamington and a rejuvenated David Prophet. After losing the first set 6:1 there was a sense of déjà vu. Ian found some extra reserves from the depths of his sturdy legs and Liz continued to brew a mixture of serves. They put up a good fight but sadly came second 1:6/4:6.
Lunch was taken during the fourth game which was between Charles Heaton and Martin Village v Mark Savage and David Aldwincle. This was always going to be a tough match given that Martin and Charles had never played on the court whilst Mark and David had numerous cunning successes at the club 2:6/4:6.
A score line pattern was beginning to emerge. What could the M.M. bring to the next match to change matters ……the trusty, nimble and soft hands of Linda Sheraton Davis from R.T.C. The problems were firstly Bruce Paxton, who had taken on the task of supervising and managing the excellent new floor at Moreton and Martin Harris an ex-South African grade level cricketer. My plan….one large glass of Mark Savages’ first-rate club claret might make the difference. I didn’t need to persuade myself! The match was a tough affair and somehow Linda and I secured the first set 6:4, then the inevitable backlash 2:6. Throughout we released the macho hits were not the route to success. Step up the gliding Linda with strong wrists seeing us home to victory. 6:4/2:6/6:3.
Again, down to the last match. Of course, the unexpected twist in the tail or rather Chris Marguerie twisting his knee as he hastily got out of the car. Well, you think a rheumatologist would know better. In his stead the eager, dog-loving and enthusiast Charles Heaton for his second match of the day bounced forward. I think Ian Hawkey might have gone home, no doubt he would have found enough gas in the tank for his third exploit of the day. The reliable Giles Stogdon and competitive Charles, who reached far and wide with his racquet, could not overcome Paul Smith OKA Pablo the Moreton Bandit and the mercurial Bernie Spratt who were in destructive mode. 6:1/1:6/3:6. The M.M.’s editorial hope of claiming “the Dedanists’ ravage Warwickshire” will have to wait another year.
Result Dedanists’ 2 MMTCC 4.
These two fixtures are a lot of fun so do put them in your diaries for next year!
Ferocia et Fraternitate,
(the MMTCC moto thanks to our Dedanist Mark Savage, Classics Scholar and M.W.)
David Phillips
M.M. Warwickshire weekend
Michael Llewelyn Jones & Ian Hawkey played against Paul Brennan & Henry Bryan
Dedanists' at MMTCC
Paul Cattermull
Dedanists v Prested - 11th June 2022
The match was won by Prested 3-1.
Clive Turner playing for the Dedanists won his match v Vince Lucey. Unfortunately, Clive and Simon Martin lost 2-0 to Chris Vigrass and Brian Muir, Anton Eisdell lost 2-0 to Patrick Foster and Jonathan Ellis- Miller and Yuri Kugler lost 2-0 to Ian Hawkey and Bruce Hogarth-Jones. Several of the Prested players are also Dedanists so there were some mixed emotions.
The match was played in great spirit and was marked by the Prested pro-Mark Hobbs. Hobbsy was trialling a new Bluetooth microphone announcer for the space behind the glass wall and with eagle eyes whilst marking in the Dedans was able to announce J Ellis-Miller apparition as seeing Top Gun Tom Cruise enter the club. He had the ray bans and the hair and the right stuff attitude.
Kudos too to Yuri for playing almost immediately having got through National Highways worst on the M25.
Dedanists v Oxford – Saturday 9th July 2022
Nick Browne v Rafa Perera v 6/4 6/5
James Mallinson v George Lythgoe 6/4 6/2
Yuri Kugler & Iain Harvey v JF Bellec & Charlotte Harris 3/6 6/4 4/6
Kugler & iain Harvey v Bruce Morrison & Jonathan Orders 6/3 4/6 4/6
Giles Stogdon & Anton Eisdel v Ian Barry & Tim Goodacre 0/6 5/6
Giles Stogdon & Sebastian Wood v Jenny Jones & Elli Harris 5/6 2/6
(James Mallinson filled in for Ronald Paterson who had pulled out of Saturday)
Result: Oxford win 4/2
Dedanists v Brigands – Sunday 10th July 2022
Ronald Paterson v James Mallinson 3/8
Nick Browne & Ronald Paterson v James Mallinson & Paul Kettle 8/5
Nick Browne v Paul Kettle 8/5
Yuri Kugler v Malcolm Thorp 5/8
Giles Stogdon v Paul Heaver 1/8
Anton Eisdell v Jenny Jones 5/8
Yuri Kugler & Giles Stogdon v Paul Heaver & Malcolm Thorp 8/2
Anton Eisdell & Yuri Kugler v Jenny Jones & Malcolm Thorp 3/8
Anton Eisdell & Giles Stogdon v Jenny Jones & Paul Heaver 8/6
Result: Brigands win 5/4.
Dedanists' & Hyde at Hyde
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