Bradford’s Jeremiah Bav-ington was given a tennis masterclass from three-time Wimbledon champion Boris Becker as his bid to become a Barclays Ball Kid entered its final stage.
The 13-year-old Dixons City Academy pupil was one of 130 youngsters to be given expert tuition from Becker at the Barclays Ball Kids national trial at Westway Sports Centre in London.
Up for grabs is the prize of starring alongside Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal and British No 1 Andy Murray at the O2 Arena as one of 30 ball kids for the ATP World Tour finals in November.
Heaton tennis and squash club’s Bavington demonstrated his talent in front of Becker and Murray’s former coach Mark Petchey and admitted it would be a dream come true to rub shoulders with the likes of Federer and Nadal.
“I attended the O2 Finals in 2009 and absolutely loved it so the chance to be a ball boy would be amazing,” said Bavington, who has beaten off competition from 2,500 12-16 year-olds to make it this far.
“Not only is it a great chance to see the world’s eight best players up close and in person but the chance to make new friends and meet new people is just as exciting.
“My family would love it if I managed to become one of the ball boys, they could watch me on TV which would just be amazing.”
The nationwide Barclays Ball Kids search began last November with Bavington – who plays tennis twice a week – qualifying from the Leeds trial.
And Becker, who along with Petchey will select the lucky winners, believes the lucky 30 are in for a treat they will never forget if they reach the O2.
“It is a very tough decision to pick the final squad and it certainly isn’t easy for us because everybody is very good,” said Becker, who also won two Australian Opens and one US Open during his illustrious career.
“It isn’t just the physical ability you need to do the job but also the mental ability too because it is an amazing tournament.
“Jeremiah and the others have made it this far because they have shown that.
“I have been very impressed with what I have seen. I couldn’t believe the standard last year but this year it seems even better.
“Kids like Jeremiah have been amazing.”
*For more information on becoming a Barclays Ball Kid at the Barclays ATP World Tour Finals in London visit www.barclaysballkids.com
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