Farnworth Grammar School

1949 Tennis Report

From a copy of Lumen lent by Ron Hodson

Although the season has been short, the tennis team has played many enjoyable matches and has only suffered one defeat. Up to date the results are:

                Won 7 matches        54 sets        498 games
                Lost 1 match            27 sets        357 games

All members of the team have practised enthusiastically and have shown a marked improvement. Our sincere thanks go to Mrs. Lawrenson and Mr. Bate, who have given up much of their own time to coach us. We would also like to thank Rene Taylor for such a good fixture list, the girls who have helped to make refreshments and Mr. Lloyd who has kept the courts in such splendid condition.

ALICE THORNLEY. Alice is a very good, determined player, with an excellent forehand drive which she places accurately and intelligently. Her service is sure but lacks "sting." Her backhand will improve with practice.

JEAN RATCLIFFE (Captain). Jean's tennis has shown a very marked improvement this season. Her service is excellent, and she has made full use of her powerful forehand drive. She and Alice Thornley have made an excellent first couple. We shall be sorry to lose Jean, but hope to hear more about her prowess at games in the future.

WINIFRED LOFTUS has the advantage of being left-handed. Her forehand drive is swift, and her backhand is steady. She should try to anticipate, and place her shots more accurately.

LILIAN LLOYD. Lilian has improved greatly this season. She has a service which is powerful but inclined to be erratic, a good forehand, but a weak backhand drive.

ALWENA LLOYD-JONES. Unfortunately Alwena's injured knee has prevented her from playing in many matches.

JOAN WILLIAMSON. Joan's forehand-drive is her strong point, and she makes good use of it, but her service and backhand lack control. She is quick on the court, and can be quite useful at the net.

MADELINE HOWARTH. With more speed on the court and better anticipation, she would have retained her position in the team. With practice she should regain it next season.