Junior FED-CUP
The Austrian Junior Fed-Cup team finished third in Turkey after beating Croatia on the final day of the competition. After a long week of practice and match-play the Austrian tennis team represented by Christine Kandler, Denise Maxl and Anna-Mari Heil fought hard against a strong Croatian team, to end the tournament finishing third behind Germany and the Czech Republic. On day 1 Austria were given a tough first round test against Slovenia, but strong play from Christine Kandler in the #1 singles position and from Denise Maxl at the #2 position gave them an unassailable lead heading in to the doubles. Anna-Maria Heil and Denise Maxl teamed up to win a tough three set doubles match to finish the day, and win 3-0 against the Slovenians.
On day 2 Austria were drawn against the Czech Republic who were the tournaments # 1 seeds. For this match I decided to alter our team lineup so that we could get better matchups, but unfortunately it was to no avail as both Christine Kandler and Anna-Maria Heil lost in the singles. It was a tough loss to a strong Czech team, but it was an important experience for all the girls if they are too become professional players.
On the final day we played Croatia for the 3rd and 4th position, and so it was a very important and character testing match for the girls to rebound after a tough and disappointing day 2. To start proceedings Denise Maxl won her match at the number 2 position in a hard fought three set battle, and this was followed by another tough three set match from Christine Kandler that she was able to win, and secure the 3rd spot for the Austrian team. The doubles match was won by the Croatian team 10-3 in the 3rd set tie-break, but overall it was a satisfying week. Next time I would like to win the tournament as we certainly had the ability to do so.
Although Austria were unable to qualify for the Finals in Switzerland next weekend, they had a strong showing at the tournament and certainly did themselves proud!