Tennis Icon Honoured

In Inaugural Col Casswell Inter-City Shield

Western Suburbs Tennis Club were privileged to host the inaugural Col Casswell Inter-City Shield named after legendary North Queensland tennis player and supporter Col Casswell on October 21. Col died in 2021 from brain cancer leaving behind a rich legacy in the sport that will hopefully continue. Nine teams from six different clubs from Charters Towers, Ingham, Townsville and the Burdekin made their way to Wests to put their clubs’ pride on the line. It was amazing to see so many come together, sharing a common love for the game. Kate Casswell said the choice of format was a fitting tribute to her late husband, who loved interclub tennis and the Sugar Bowl above all other tennis. Col would have been chuffed to just know that more people were out there playing tennis on the weekend. For him it was all about camaraderie, sportsmanship and building lifelong friendships.  

Organiser Paula Simpson said days like this don’t just happen. Many thanks to the volunteers of Wests who helped, not only during the event but in the days leading up to it. Kate personally thanked each of the players.

“It was an amazing day that brought together so many people from across the region,” she said.

“You all played in some hot conditions but with great spirit.

“I am proud of your sportsmanship and dedication.

“You have honoured the memory of the late Col Casswell, an absolute legend of our sport.”

Well done to the winners and to all the teams who participated.  A special mention goes to Lesley Prideaux from Charters Towers who, at 72 years old, played all 10 sets. Winners: A grade Tennis Townsville, B Grade Home Hill (defeated Charters Towers by 1 game). Next year the event will be held in Charters Towers.

Contributed by Home Hill Tennis Association