Our only co-ed, multi-year level College First team achieved a remarkable win this year. Led by team captain Victoria, they finally toppled their long-reigning rivals in an intense final round of the APS Table Tennis competition.
Here we celebrate a unique Wesley team’s special moment.
It’s fifth set in the doubles match, the last game in the APS Table Tennis finals, and everything rests on this. Watching on, Victoria and her teammates hold their breath as vice-captain Nelson and twin brother Michael are facing defeat, down a match point at 11-12, then down again at 12-13. The stress is huge.
Doubles partners for four years, the twins are, however, more than familiar with each other’s games. Using this synergy, they fight back, somehow saving those match points and keeping the pressure on until, finally, their opponents’ last ball hits the net. The boys have won the match 15-13, and with it, Wesley have won the premiership, not just breaking rival Haileybury’s 22-year winning streak but ending their status as the only school ever to have won the title outright since the competition began.
‘Our entire team erupted in celebration,’ says Nelson. ‘It was truly one of the greatest feelings to experience – a combination of exuberance, euphoria and relief.’
The stress of those final minutes was felt by everyone, including Principal Nick Evans (OW1985). ‘That was the most intense game of sport I’ve seen in a very long time!' he said.
This unique group has taken ‘multi-age’ to new levels. Earlier in the season, Year 4 student Maya – sister to teammate Kavyaa in Year 10 – made her First team debut at just 9 years of age, partnering with Victoria to win a doubles game against St Kevin’s. In no other sport would you find a Year 4 student playing alongside a Year 12.
It’s also remarkable that the Grand Final team was made up of brothers and sisters, including the heroic twins. ‘Being in a co-ed team has taught me a lot about adaptability, as our team has a diverse range of playing styles,’ says Year 11 player Nelson. ‘I’ve also had to learn how to support and encourage our younger players who may not have had a lot of experience, but I appreciate a team can be victorious regardless of their age.’
The strength of the program and the bright future ahead are a testament to our amazing coaches, Eva, Gabby, Matt, Nick and Parleen, and their years of hard work,’ says Wesley Head of Table Tennis, Luke Bertucci. ‘Special shoutout to Victoria for her outstanding leadership as captain, who rose to every challenge that was thrown at her.’
Luke saves his grandest praise for the team itself. ‘I couldn’t be prouder of our incredible squad and how they represented the College this year,’ he says. ‘You won’t find a more dedicated and passionate group of athletes.'