Sport

30 August, 2024

Rowbottom wins aggregate

AARON Rowbottom has taken out this season’s aggregate for the Orford and District Table Tennis Association.

By Staff Writer

Rowbottom finished the season on 36 rubbers to take the award, followed by Darren Smith and Peter Owen both on 33 rubbers.

The association held its annual dinner and presentation night at the Warrnambool Football Club bistro last Wednesday night.

President David Rowbottom welcomed all players, past and present, along with their families.

Next year will mark the 50th year that he was joined by Andrew McGrath as secretary/treasurer after some difficult years for the association.

Over those years team numbers have fluctuated, from a high of 12 to a low of five; the past two seasons have included a stable eight teams which has allowed two grades for finals.

The association began in woolsheds more than 70 years ago and was even, at various times, played in garages, footy rooms, schools, halls and even a disused church.

For some, playing in the competition has also aided their mental health (particularly for those living in isolated farming communities).

Presentations were made to the winners and runners-up, along with awards to most improved player David Cranwell (who won 21 rubbers for the year) and to best first year player, Gus Looney (who joined his mother and grandparents in the Attunga side).

For the second consecutive year, Warrnambool Vikings took out the A grade premiership.

This team of international players – Dominic Angarano, Rehan Iqbal, Tess Le and Gilles Gundermann – combines well and shows that table tennis is enjoyed in many countries.

Losing to Warrnambool Warriors once this season also saw them lose the champions title this year.

The runners-up in A grade were Warrnambool Warriors – Peter Owen, Darren Smith and David Cranwell.

Aaron Rowbottom was joined by his children Ally and Jensen to form Myndarra and after a successful season they took out the B grade premiership title.

The runners-up in B grade were Glengleeson – Mark Murray, Gareth Spring and Lindsay Morrow.

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