Sydenham’s Leann and Taylors Lakes’ Katherine are among the ballkids taking to the court at the Australian Open.
While all the attention is on the stars of the tennis world, the ballkids are crucial in making sure that things run smoothly.
Leann is one of the ballkid captains this year. She’s been a ballkid since 2019.
“I am a keen tennis player and have been playing tennis since I was about four years old,” she said.
“I have always admired the tennis stars and dreamed of being up close to them. I always wondered what it would be like to be on the same court as an arena being a ball kid for the big stars.
“My older brother became a ball kid a few years ago and after hearing all his stories and experiences inspired me to become a ballkid too.”
Leann said her favourite thing about being a ballkid was being able to meet and interact with so many different people, including some of her tennis idols.
“It’s incredible to walk on a court as a ballkid and be part of a match and help as much as possible.
“I have also made some amazing friends over the years.”
This year is the first time Katherine has been a ballkid. She had previously tried out, but had missed out.
She said before the event that she had practiced on her local courts with friends and family to try and get better.
“For two years I’ve been working hard to improve my skills and finally this tryout I became successful.
“Ever since I was little and going to the tennis with my family each year I was inspired by the ballkids and wanted to try to challenge myself.
“I attended training provided by Tennis Australia to improve my skills and reflexes to be ready for the tournament.
“I’m expecting the event will be lots of fun and hard work. I’m excited to be on court with great tennis players and some of my idols. “
