Tennis Star Evelyn Webster Passes Away at 101

Evelyn Webster, a celebrated tennis player and national champion, passed away in late August at the age of 101. Born Evelyn Attwood, she made her mark on the sport in the 1940s, capturing the junior girls’ national title in 1941 and the national ladies’ singles championship in 1948. Her contributions to tennis and her passion for the sport left a lasting legacy.

During her career, Evelyn demonstrated remarkable tenacity. In 1950, she made the bold decision to sail to England, where she lived from 1951 to 1955. While in London, she worked full-time as a secretary, balancing her professional life with her commitment to tennis. Evelyn had the opportunity to compete in four Wimbledon tournaments, participating in both singles and doubles events. Although her achievements at Wimbledon were noteworthy, she found greater success in county tennis, where she won several tournaments against formidable competition.

Life After Tennis and Legacy in New Zealand

In late 1954, Evelyn returned to her home country of New Zealand. Upon her return, she married Eric Webster, and together they played a significant role in the development of an anchorage at Smokehouse Bay in Port Fitzroy on Great Barrier Island. This area has since become known as Webster’s Wonderland, a testament to their efforts in enhancing the local community.

Evelyn Webster’s life was marked by her passion for tennis and her dedication to her family and community. Her contributions to the sport and her initiatives in New Zealand have left an indelible mark. As a pioneer in women’s tennis during her time, her achievements continue to inspire future generations of athletes.

Evelyn Webster’s passing is a reminder of the rich history of tennis and the impact one individual can have on the sport and their community. Her legacy will be remembered by those who knew her and by the tennis community she helped shape.