They may be 66 years apart in age, but on the tennis court David McCandless and his doubles partner Liam have developed a partnership that has proved a winning combination.
The 80-year-old and his 14-year-old counterpart teamed up two years ago and have not looked back since.
Since then, the unlikely pairing have won more than half of their North West of Ireland league games – after ironing out a few kinks.
“We started on court and it was a case of who is going to go where,” Liam said. “Then after a couple of matches we started winning because we realised we got a system down and we realised we are a pretty good duo.”
David said the partnership came about “purely by accident” but two years later it had “worked out very well indeed”.
“He’s a very strong young junior and I think he will be a top class player,” he said.
David was the same age as his partner when he first took up tennis and has loved every minute of his time on court, now playing up to four or five times a week.
He believes the experience he has gained over the years can complement Liam’s coaching and natural ability.
“He got coaching from a young age which I never got,” David said. “I wouldn’t have the same ability in playing the correct shots. I’m just self-taught.”
“I do have a bit of experience and I do think that I can help him as regards how to move on the court at times,” he continued.
“And he knows what I’m capable of and he covers for me at other times.”
Liam is equally complimentary about his older partner, saying he brings a lot of experience to the court.
“He’s a solid player and consistent and I’ve learned a lot from him playing in the league,” he said.
