NEWPORT tennis ace Charley Thomas claimed the biggest win of his fledgling career as he was crowned under-18s boys Welsh singles champion in Penarth this week.

The former Bassaleg School pupil from Rogerstone beat Will Harrington of Prestatyn in the semi-final before overcoming Swansea’s Max Cichon in the final, both in straight sets.

Thomas was also a runner-up in the under-18 doubles in a hectic day of action on Tuesday and has enjoyed a successful summer, which has seen him rise into the top 70 in the under-18 GB rankings.

“Charley has had a great few weeks with his level of play and has achieved several good wins,” said his father and coach Phil.

“He did really well this week, and we’re chuffed for him. It’s a fantastic achievement – his first national title and he played a really good, aggressive game with plenty of drop shots and excellent net play.”

The 6ft 2ins left hander models his game on two-time Wimbledon champion Andy Murray and new British hope Jack Draper.

“His role model in terms of mentality is Murray and he really likes the style of Draper and tries to mirror him – not a bad combination,” explained Phil, a former full-time player and Welsh international who has a wealth of experience with 30 years as a teaching pro.

The 17-year-old Cross Keys College student is now hoping to take the next steps towards a full-time career in the sport and is aiming to gain access to the national training programme at Cardiff Met University before potentially targeting a scholarship at a US university – a well-worn route to the top.

“We currently train at Glamorgan Tennis and Croquet Club in Bridgend and costs are not too high with me as his coach,” added Phil.

“But tennis is an affluent sport, and the cost of facilities and travel all add up, particularly as we start aiming for junior ITF world ranking events.

“So, anyone who is willing to offer any kind of sponsorship for Charley would be a great help.

“He’s got a great mentality and I 100 per cent believe he’s got what it takes to reach the top.”

Wales has not been blessed with many tennis stars over the years, though Thomas is aiming to follow in the footsteps of three Welsh athletes who competed at Wimbledon this summer.

Swansea’s Mimi Xu, aged 16, and 18-year-old Viktor Frydrych from Colwyn Bay both showcased their talents in Junior Wimbledon, while 13-year-old Niall Pickerd-Barua from Cardiff made his debut in the 14-and-under invitational event.

Anyone wishing to sponsor Charley can contact Phil Thomas via email at: headcoachfirstballin@gmail.com