Maitland’s opens side will take on some of the best players in the state in first division, while the under 17s, coached by Starkey, will play in division two for their age grade.

Both sides have been training for the occasion since January, when teams were selected.

Pre-tournament preperation included playing in the Hunter Regional League in March.

Starkey said the two teams had dinner earlier this week to commemorate the completion of their training. 

“Both teams are in good spirits. We’re ready to play but we’re not expecting the best conditions,” president Starkey said of the forecast weather. 

She was expecting a tough weekend for the opens side, who were originally in second division before several teams were regraded, resulting in them being shunted into firsts.

“It’s our goal to get a couple of wins under our belt and enjoy the experience,” Starkey said. 

“In the 17s we’ll be hoping for a top 10 finish, if not top six.” 

She said she was looking forward to seeing her young charges take to the court. 

“They’ve been training well and developing really well,” she said of the 17s side. 

Both sides will play about 20 matches over the three days from Saturday to Monday.

This year’s championship will be held in Gosford. 

Starkey said she was also pleased that the Maitland association would have four umpires involved with the championships. 

“It’s a great experience for them and they get to bring that back to the local competition,” she said.