NEWLY promoted to Premier One this season, the ladies' first team at Dinas Powys Lawn Tennis Club is facing some tough competition.

Despite losing their first match against a formidable Cardiff Castle side, the Dinas team is optimistic for the rest of the season. There is great team commitment and the side has been boosted by the return of their star member - county player Safiyyah Azeez.

The ladies' second team is keen to regain its place in Division One this year and, although struggling due to two players suffering from injuries, they have a strong squad of seven and have developed regular playing partners, strengthening the team.

The ladies' third and fourth teams have also had some obstacles to overcome but, with the presence of juniors Libby Smith, Darcey Ramsden, Amelia Davidson and Sophie Thomas, and the creation of new partnerships, both teams are competing well in their respective divisions.

The men’s first and second teams are standing mid-table in their divisions, and the third team has an increasing chance of promotion, showing it’s all to play for this summer.

Juniors are increasing their presence in the men’s teams and the start of the summer leagues has seen teenager Luke Davidson play and win his first match for the first team and the introduction of youngsters Jack Thomas and Isaac Follon into the second and third teams.

In another development for the men’s teams, Carlo Cancino made his debut for the first team alongside returning first team player John-Paul Barker.

There has also been a growth in players, with several new members, and the teams are going from strength to strength.