Women's Open Singles Championship at Wynnum

16 players gathered at Wynnum Croquet Club for a 3 day CAQ Women's Open Singles championship. 9 of these competitors were hoping for selection in the Queensland state team.

To better understand what it takes to reach that level, players were asked about the preparation behind their performance.

Top level players approach their sport with the discipline of elite athletics. Regular gym sessions, cycling, pilates and active lifestyles are the norm. Just as important is the relentless honing of skills with many practising 5 to 6 times a week.

A healthy diet and quality sleep - especially in the lead-up to competition - are essential ingredients for success. Yet it is the mental game that often proves decisive. Players spoke of the need to remain calm and composed before each shot, blocking out distractions and focusing on the task at hand.

And then there are the quirks - the small rituals that bring comfort in high pressure moments. Lucky shoes, familiar tournament outfits and even lucky underwear!

Strategy plays a vital role. Knowing your opponent's strengths and weaknesses allows players to adapt their own game, so each match becomes a subtle contest of tactics as much as skill.

When asked which aspect of their game still needs improvement, there was a near unanimous agreement - the ability to consistently "nail" long roquets - those demanding 10 yard shots that can shift the momentum of a match in an instant.

Despite the individual nature of singles play, the sense of camaraderie among players remains strong. Those vying for state selection speak of encouragement, shared advice and a collective desire to see each other succeed.

Many of these athletes have backgrounds in other sports, often turning to croquet after injury or age made previous pursuits less viable. What they found is a sport that challenges both body and mind and one they deeply love.

There was one player whose story transcends the tournament itself. Living with a cancer that will never go into remission, she approaches each day and each game with a remarkable perspective. For her, stepping onto the lawn is not just a competition but a gift of life.

Her presence is a reminder that while titles and team selections matter, the true heart of the sport lies in resilience, passion and the joy of playing.

The winner of the Women's Singles Championship and the Fleming trophy was Chelsea Williams from Queenscliffe Victoria who promises to come back next year to defend her title.