SALTFORD Tennis Club once again held their annual Remembering Russ Tournament, in honour of Russell Simmons.
Russ was an accomplished young sportsman and excellent coach who we sadly lost to suicide in March 2013. The tournament is an opportunity for Russell’s parents, family, friends and the community to come together to remember Russ and raise awareness about the devastating impact of suicide.
Twelve competitors consisting of former and current members of Saltford LTC and Russell’s friends took to the court in October and produced competitive and entertaining tennis.
It was a round-robin format with the top two teams playing a championship tie-break final. The teams were so evenly matched that three teams (John Moruzzi and John Sweet, Guy Muggleton and Elliot Jones, Neil Willey and Ed Collis) all finished on the same number of points.
By winning one more point than these three teams, Mark Collins and Ryan Fell finished second, earning a place in the final, where they faced Lucas Richards and Rhys Messenger.
The start of the final was close, but Lucas and Rhys produced some clinical tennis and raced out to a 9:3 lead. Then Mark and Ryan staged a comeback, winning three points in a row to narrow the gap. However, the gap proved too big to peg back, and Lucas and Rhys finally won the winning point to be crowned champions.
While watching some entertaining tennis, the spectators enjoyed a cuppa, tasty treats provided by the Little Coffee Shop, and freshly made sausage baps prepared by Milly Allen.
This year’s charity was Hope Against Suicide, chosen by Russell’s parents. It offers mental health support across Bristol, from a team of volunteers with experience and training in suicide prevention. For more information visit https://hopeagainstsuicide.org.uk
Before a toast was raised in honour of Russ, Joyce Pickard, who helped Russ on his tennis journey, paid a poignant tribute to him.
The event raised over £550 for the charity. The club thanks all the members who created a welcoming and friendly atmosphere, and everyone who cheered, cooked, organised, donated or simply showed up to make the day special.
The tournament once again proved that Saltford LTC is as much about community as it is about competition. Finally, much love, respect and thanks to Jan and David Simmons.
Pictured above, finalists Rhys, Lucas, Ryan and Mark. Below, the contestants with David and Joyce Simmons, and Joyce Pickard
