As ACT tennis fans enjoy watching the recent return of professional tennis to the Canberra Tennis Centre and following their favourites at the Australian Open, many locals have been enjoying the action up close.
Twelve ACT officials have been working at this year’s Australian Open, amongst over 300 national and international umpire’s involved in the servicing of the year’s first grand slam.
Amongst this group are three people experiencing their first Australian Open – Chris Andrews, Marc Vandenbroucke and Guy Sancataldo.
“It has been such a great experience being part of an international officiating team and learning from each other” shares Chris Andrews
Marc Vandenbroucke, who also had the opportunity to work the 2015 and 2016 Apia Sydney International explains “The best thing about umpiring is the opportunity to work at professional tournaments like the Apia and the Australian Open. You have the best seat in the house, seeing these players on court and in the corridors – a fantastic way to further explore your interest in tennis”.
Guy Sancataldo, who has worked as a ballkid at the Apia Sydney International and the recent Canberra Challengers is excited about the transition from being on court collecting the balls to calling them. “This has been such an amazing opportunity to be involved in a world class event with top class players and facilities. It has been such a privilege to be part of one of the Grand Slams and am looking forward to being involved for many years to come”
Chris, Marc and Guy all started their officiating journey through a line umpire course and on court practical sessions with the support of local officials.
So if you would like to be part of the action with world class tennis now finding a home in Canberra – come and be a part of the officiating team!
To find out how to become a Line Umpire, you are invited to attend our free Line Umpires course on Thursday 18 February from 6-830pm at the Canberra Tennis Centre, Riggall St Lyneham. This will be followed up by an on court session on Thursday 25 February 6-730pm at the Canberra Tennis Centre, Riggall St Lyneham.
To register your interest and for more information visit: http://www.tennis.com.au/act/officials
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