By Tara Murray
Hume Tennis had a mixed start to the Tennis Victoria Premier League Women’s competition on the weekend.
Fielding a side in the competition for a second year, Hume started the competition at home with a loss on Saturday to Beaumaris.
It was a tough start to the season as they lost all six rubbers to Beaumaris.
It was complete dominance by Beaumaris, as they allowed Hume to win just two sets on a day which got off to delayed start due to the weather.
It was a much better day on Sunday for Hume, as they found their groove against MCC Glen Iris Valley.
They won four rubbers to two, winning nine sets and 64 games.
Lisa Whybourn and Stefani Webb won their doubles in straight sets, while Helena Spiridis and Prisha Baliga lost their doubles in a tie breaker.
Webb, Baliga and Whybourn all won their singles matches in straight sets.
Whybourn, who also coaches at Hume, said they had opened up the season with tough couple of matches.
“We had some challenges with injuries leading into the first week,” she said.
“We also had a couple of players playing tournaments elsewhere.
“We played the hardest team to start the season and Glen Iris made the grand final last year and we beat them four rubbers to two.
PHOTO GALLERY: Hume vs Beaumaris
“Hopefully we can keep that momentum going.”
Whybourn said they had a similar side to last season, with the majority training out of the Craigieburn facility.
She said it was a key to give young players the opportunity to play at a higher level.
“The majority access or train full time at the facility,” she said.
“I coach a lot of them, so it’s good to then play doubles with them. The main aim is for the kids and them gaining experience.”
Hume has added a bit of experience this year, with world number 461 Alison Bai joining the team.
Whybourn said her experience would help the younger players.
It’s another double header this weekend, with Hume having a bye on Saturday in round three.
They face Royal South Yarra on Sunday at MCC Glen Iris Valley.
Whybourn said they were hoping to have their full side back on Sunday.
She said after finishing fourth last season, they would like to make finals. The top three teams play finals.
