Public Schools Singles 2009
Christian Portz of Winchester played a spirited and focussed game of Rackets to take the Foster Cup in 3 games. He defeated the holder Nick Hopcroft of Wellington, who won it at the age of 16. Hopcroft is one of the top young squash players of his generation, but on the day Portz' determination and hours of practise on the Winchester court landed him the trophy.
C Portz [WIN] bt N Hopcroft [WEL] 15/10, 15/13, 17/14
The Foster was last won by Winchester in 1962, by Howard Angus, who was suitably clad in the gallery in his track suit looking like he might want another crack at it! The Foster Cup was first won for Winchester by Brigadier Andrew Myrtle, still heavily involved in the affairs of tennis and rackets although rarely if ever seen in a track suit!
In the Renny Cup, which this year was played after the Foster Cup for logistical reasons, Cheltonians Barton and Clarke hammered it out with Clarke prevailing. He was presented with the Cup by Cheltonian Charlie Liverton on behalf of sponsors Neptune Investment Management. With 3 finalists out of 8, Cheltenham rackets is flourishing and in good hands.
F Clarke [CHE] bt T Barton [CHE] 15/12, 9/15, 15/7, 15/2
The Incledon-Webber was won by Johnny Maltz of Tonbridge, a tribute to his talent and to the massive amount of work put in by David Makey during the season.
J Maltz [TON] bt J Giddins [ETN] 15/10, 15/4, 15/4
The Jim Dear Cup was won by first seed L Bose of Harrow.
L Bose [HAR] bt A Duncliffe [CHE] 15/10, 15/6
The gallery and clubhouse were full for most of Finals day, with not a single spare space available to watch the Foster Cup Final, and overall the Schools
event was very well attended.