History maker: 15-year-old wins Victorian Open singles

RISING local bowler Harry Coleman has become the youngest ever Victorian Open Men’s Singles champion, claiming the title at just 15.

Competing across the 10-day tournament, Coleman built momentum through multiple events before delivering a composed run in the singles draw.

“I was feeling good about how I was playing,” he said.

“When I saw my draw for the knockouts, I said to myself, ‘I’ve got a big chance to go deep if I don’t give up and focus on myself only’.

“Then when I made the round of 16, I just took one game at a time.”

Coleman did exactly that, advancing through the rounds to secure a record-breaking victory.

“I feel honoured to be the youngest ever Victorian Open singles winner,” he said. “It is sinking in slowly – I had to get back to school to do a SAC test on the Tuesday.”

His form has been just as strong at junior level, sweeping all four titles at the recent under-18 state championships, a first for a male competitor.

Coleman is already setting his sights higher, targeting selection in Victoria’s under-25 side, a Metropolitan Premier League title with Deer Park, and an Australian Open under-18 singles crown after reaching last year’s semi-finals.