Greetings from Russell Watts a member of Australia`s 55 and over team.

 This was my first time representing Australia and it was one of the most exciting and sometimes scary times of my life! Since competing in senior tennis for nearly 20 years I have dreamed of representing Australia but never thought it would happen. When I was told in Perth I was in the team I was "over the moon". On arrival in Turkey I was extremely nervous as I did not want to let down my highly successful and experienced team mates in Andrew Rae and Max Bates. The pressure mounted as we were seeded number one and I was told I would play the number two singles in our opening match. I was also thrilled to lead out all the Aussies with our flag on to the centre court for the opening ceremony! On day one we had a bye and then it was time to face Canada in our first match. I could hardly breathe at the start but some how relaxed enough to hit enough balls in to win comfortably! WHEW! What a relief!  As we got closer and closer to the final the tension increased but I think (hope!) I justified my position by winning 3 of my 5 matches.                        

When Andrew and Max clinched the doubles to give us a 2 1 victory in the final against the USA it was one of the happiest moments in my life. A huge thanks to Andrew, Max and Gail (our unofficial team manager), for all their support and encouragement during the cup. We really were a close-knit and united team which greatly contributed to our win. Also,a huge thanks to all the Aussies present. Our support for each other really made me proud to be part of the whole wonderful experience and proud to be an Aussie. Some of the Aussies I did not know very well at the start of the week but by the end we were like a big happy family. It was also great meeting so many overseas players and renewing some old friendships. I hope I may have this opportunity again (over 80`s perhaps??) and hopefully next time my nerves may be a bit more under control!