A TALENTED group of Gunnedah’s rising tennis stars has returned home with outstanding results after competing at the 2026 NSW Country Championships in Wagga Wagga.
The young squad produced an impressive haul of titles, finals appearances and strong performances against some of the state’s best country players, highlighting the depth of emerging talent in Gunnedah.
Leading the way was 10-year-old Lachlan Finnerty, who continued his remarkable rise after winning the 10-and-under boys’ singles title in 2025.
Harry Tudgey and Rupert Tehan with tournament director Mitch Maloon.
Choosing to challenge himself by competing in the 12-and-under and 13-and-under age groups, Lachlan proved more than capable of matching it with older opponents.
He reached the semi-finals of the 12-and-under boys’ doubles before he and his partner were forced to retire due to his partner becoming unwell.
Lachlan also advanced to the semi-finals of the 13-and-under boys’ singles, where he was defeated by the eventual champion.
Charli Scott and Matilda Hole with tournament director Mitch Maloon.
His standout performance came in the 12-and-under boys’ singles, where he enjoyed a superb tournament before claiming the championship with a dominant 6-3, 6-0 victory in the final.
Six-year-old Tyler Finnerty also celebrated championship success, taking out the 8-and-under Red Ball title.
Charli Scott enjoyed an outstanding week, winning the 10-and-under girls’ doubles title while also finishing runner-up in the 10-and-under girls’ singles.
Tyler Finnerty was the winner of the 8-and-under Red Ball at just 6 years of age.
She capped off a consistent tournament by reaching the final of the 11-and-under girls’ consolation draw.
Harry Tudgey also impressed, finishing runner-up in the 12-and-under boys’ doubles after a strong campaign.
Adding to the club’s success was six-year-old Zahra Scott, who displayed great determination by competing in both the 9-and-under and 10-and-under events against older players.
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