Local Players Gearing Up for Rockhampton Open with Strong Performances

The countdown is on for local players preparing to compete in the annual Rockhampton Open Table Tennis Championships, set to take place over the last weekend of April. For open-grade players, the weekly fixture competition plays a crucial role in maintaining match fitness, while additional opportunities such as Top Table matches on Thursdays at 7:00 pm, Wednesday morning practice, and Saturday afternoon sessions help players refine their consistency and stroke play.

In the latest round of first-division competition, the top players delivered strong performances, though some matches were less closely contested than usual. One of the standout clashes saw Matt Pettett face Rayden Smith. Having progressed through the local coaching program together—representing both regionally and at the state level—these two know each other’s game well. Pettett controlled the match to secure a three-game-to-nil victory. The third game was particularly intense, with Pettett edging out Smith 13-11. Had Smith taken that set, the match could have taken a different turn, as he seemed to take time to settle into the contest.

Dane Coughlan continued his strong form, facing a determined challenge from James O’Sullivan, who fought hard but ultimately lost in a match that featured two games decided at deuce. Nick Green also impressed, putting in a spirited performance against Coughlan, pushing his higher-rated opponent with some spectacular rallies in a well-fought contest. Meanwhile, former local player Gerard Watts, in town on business, stepped in as a substitute. He and Green played a gripping match, with Green staging a comeback to win 7-11, 7-11, 11-7, 11-5, 11-8.

On paper, Joel Coughlan was always the favourite against Judd Carr, the club’s top junior player, who is still finding his footing at this level. While Coughlan won in straight sets, Carr held his own, scoring well in the first two games and taking the third to deuce.

In second division, Monica Deeth stepped up a level and showed why she is currently rated the best in her division. She secured a solid four-set win over an out-of-form Erica Nolan. Leo Lai, who was recently promoted to the division, maintained his strong performances, overcoming Ann-Louise Stewart in three closely contested games.

Junior player Cooper Bulow continues to make strides in second division. He outlasted the defensive style of Joe Clifton in four tight sets but struggled to generate enough consistent attacking play against Linda O’Sullivan, losing in straight games despite posting competitive scores. These matches are valuable experiences for Bulow as he and Judd Carr prepare to represent Rockhampton at the state junior championships in Moreton Bay during the Easter school holidays.