Sport
6 September, 2026
Orford celebrates successful season
MEMBERS of the Orford and District Table Tennis Association have celebrated another successful season.
The group recently held its annual presentation night at the Kirkstall Hotel with president, David Rowbottom, thanking the committee and players for their contribution.
He also paid tribute to the many sponsors for their ongoing support.
For over 75 years the association has encouraged and supported local players, providing friendly competition for those (mainly) from the rural community.
Aaron Rowbottom was announced the aggregate winner, with Fergus Monsborough the runner-up.
In a close season, only one rubber separated the top two players.
The A grade winners had all their players in the top list, showing their dominance throughout the year, while the B grade winners had two of their players listed.
Leah Drendel was presented with the ‘best first year player’ award.
Leah teamed with her parents, Peter and Andrea, to form their own team this season.
The ‘most improved’ award was presented to Jensen Rowbottom.
Jensen’s improvement resulted in eight more rubbers this year, which contributed to St Helens’ success (from B grade winners last year to 6/5 runners-up in A grade this year).
He, along with his sister Ally (up seven rubbers) will no doubt relieve their fathers’ shoulders from carrying the team in the near future.
Top players – Aaron Rowbottom 41 rubbers, Fergus Monsborough 30, Peter Owen 38, Darren Smith 37, Val Wortley 30, Gavin Rowbottom 28, Kelly Wortley 28, Russell Hussey 27, Neil Ford 25, Ally Rowbottom 25, David Cranwell 25 and Peter Drendel 22.
Congratulations to A grade premiers, Warrnambool Warriors – Peter Owen, Neil Ford, David Cranwell and Tony Leslie.
A grade runners-up, St Helens – Aaron Rowbottom, Ally Rowbottom and Jensen Rowbottom.
B grade premiers, Tower Hill – Darren Smith, Gavin Rowbottom, Mary Wealleans and David Rowbottom.
B grade runners-up, Orford – Russell Hussey, Jaden Clapp and Steven Young.
Three long service awards were also presented on the night.
These were presented to Tony Storer, Val Wortley and Gareth Spring.
