06 March 2026
In one of the closest McMichael Cup finals in recent years, Co-Captain of Tennis Michael Teo (Year 12) and Howen Xu (Year 10) delivered a superb contest worthy of the occasion.
Michael claimed the opening set 6–4, before Howen responded strongly to take the second set in a tiebreak, 7–6. The match was ultimately decided in a thrilling super tiebreak, with Howen holding his nerve to secure the title 10–8 and be crowned the 2026 McMichael Cup Champion.
Throughout the tournament, both players demonstrated exceptional quality and composure. Michael, the number one seed and Co-Captain of Tennis, has shown outstanding leadership and performance this season. His well-rounded game and strategic awareness were on full display throughout the competition, including a dramatic semi-final victory in which he saved a match point to defeat his younger brother in a tightly contested encounter.
Year 10 student Howen Xu, the number two player in the Drive Team, also displayed remarkable consistency across the tournament. Notable wins included a narrow 9–8 victory over Bradley Korir and a composed semi-final performance against Isaac Chisholm. His calm demeanour under pressure proved crucial in the final, where he demonstrated tremendous composure to recover from a set and a break down to turn the match around.
First awarded in 1932, the McMichael Cup is named after former School Captain and accomplished all-round athlete Richard Verco McMichael (DAC 1929). A strong field of 32 players contested this year’s tournament, contributing to an excellent standard of tennis throughout and culminating in a memorable final.
Our thanks go to the dedicated Year 6 ball boys, whose efforts helped make the afternoon a terrific occasion for players and spectators alike.
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Todd Perry
Head of Tennis
