Duo having a ball playing with hoops

They say things are “pretty good” when they are playing together — but it’s a different story when they’re on opposite sides. And it’s good for Charley MacSween that he can cook, as wife Jan admits she’s not the best of losers. The MacSweens are Johnny-come-latelys to croquet — but are making a big impression with their mallets at the Geraldton Croquet Club — Charley winning the final tournament of 2020 and Jan finishing fourth. “I’ve yet to beat him . . . but the day will come,” she said. “Yes, I’m a bit of a bad loser, I do spit the dummy and he has to cook on those times.” But it won’t be the case next week, when the MacSweens combine in a doubles championship at the club. “People tried to get us into this (croquet) for years and years,” Charley said. “We kept saying no. We played one game and were hooked; you couldn’t stop us now. I took 2700 steps the other day, playing just two games.” Jan said the couple “cannot get enough” croquet. “Whether it’s social or serious, we love it. Our nine-year-old granddaughter was visiting from Bunbury recently, had a game, and loved it. “Croquet is for all ages. People should get into it, but don’t wait to do it.”