Weakened teams look to settle score
Paraparaumu Beach and Khandallah could not be separated in round-robin earlier this month.
This weekend they go at it again, competing without several established players, for the Wellington interclub women’s tennis title.
The teams face off at Renouf Tennis Centre on Saturday night, two weeks after their round-robin tie finished level at three matches, seven sets and 50 games apiece.
To retain the title they won last season, Paraparaumu Beach will have to overcome the loss of second-seeded singles player Holly Stewart, who has been selected for the New Zealand junior Federation Cup team. Georgia Kingi, who would have been her natural replacement, is also unavailable.
If Khandallah wrest the title away they will do so without their second-ranked singles player Ivy McLean.
Amy Kieboom, 12, is stepping in for Paraparaumu Beach. She will become one of the youngest to play in a Wellington premier 1 final.
She became eligible after playing two doubles matches earlier in the season.
Paraparaumu Beach team captain Lane Lawson said the time would be ‘‘ an awesome experience’’ for her.
‘‘She’s training her heart out ... I can never remember a 12-year-old turning out in a prem grand final, men’s or women’s.’’
Lane Lawson said the club was ‘‘pretty chuffed’’ three Kapiti juniors were playing in an interclub final, supporting team cornerstone Beattie.
The tie will likely be the last time team Beattie plays for Paraparaumu Beach - she is heading to Australia to play professional tournaments.
The country’s fifth-ranked women’s singles player, Beattie had an impeccable winning record since joining the team at the start of last season.
‘‘We’re delighted she’s having another crack at being a professional tennis player.
‘‘She’s determined to sign off with another win.’’
Khandallah finished second in the pre-Christmas tournament and third after New Year - their combined points tally took them into the final.
Manager Anne Callender said her team had exceeded expectations. ‘‘We’re very excited to be in the grand final.’’
Khandallah No1, American Brittany Yang, will be supported by Grace McLean, Meg Henderson and Marie Reid, who is from Waikanae.