By KATHRYN BERMINGHAM
LOCAL tennis clubs celebrated their star ballkids earlier this month.
Ben Donald and Grace Staindl-Dymond from Ferny Creek Tennis Club, Mitchell van Dijk from Selby Tennis Club and Oskar Svihla, Mitchell Laing and Sebastian Sutterby from Upwey South Tennis club were all chosen for the prestigious role at the 2015 Australian Open.
The ballkids and junior tennis players spoke of their memorable moments and exciting experiences at the tournament.
“Being a ballkid was one of the best experiences of my life, brushing past the best of the best in the world or maybe being on court with the next big thing,” Mitchell said.
Sebastian also enjoyed the interaction with tennis’ biggest stars.
“The players are all really friendly and you get to know their quirks,” he said.
Tennis coach Diana Sutterby said the two-week tournament was rewarding but followed hard work and extensive preparation for the juniors.
“Being a ballkid is a fabulous experience in so many ways. Kids meet new friends, learn to work as a team and experience first-hand what goes on behind the scenes in a grand slam,” Diana said.
“After passing through level one and two trials, the kids participate in several weekend training sessions throughout the year showing commitment and dedication to the cause.”
Ballkids at the Australian Open are aged between 12 and 15 years old and undergo a rigorous selection process.
This year, 380 ballkids were selected from all over Australia as well as multiple Asian countries.
Applications are now open for the 2016 ballkid squad and Extreme Tennis will be hosting Level 1 trials on behalf of the Australian Open on Saturday 21 March at Upwey South Tennis Club.
For more information or to apply, visit www.tennis.com.au.
