21 March 2013 | Tennis Victoria

Jessica Zaviacic (Black Rock) took out the singles and doubles events at the 2013 Optus 12s National Grasscourt Championships at Mildura in February, the biggest achievement of her young career .

The impressive results have taken 12-year-old Zaviacic to a career-high Australian rank of 396 but if she has her way, this will only be the beginning of a sparkling career.

“I would like to be number one in the world and win all four Grand Slams,” said Zaviacic.

“It’s a big goal … I just really like competition and I just love tennis, it’s an amazing sport.”

With an aggressive baseline style game and a powerful forehand, Zaviacic trains most days of the week at Beaumaris Lawn Tennis Club under the watchful eye of Assistant Head Coach Beti Sekulovski and Head Coach Larry Dempster.

Sekulovski says Zaviacic has an “amazing attitude to life in general” that she believes will be “one of her strongest assets” as her game develops.

“She is a strong ball-striker on the court and has the ability to be a very good shot maker,” said Sekulovski.

“I believe she has the type of game that you can see will work in today’s game.

“Jess has a pretty good understanding of how she would like to play the game which is a crucial part of knowing yourself when left to your own devices come competition day.”

In the early stages of her career, Zaviacic lists her win in Mildura as her favourite tennis moment so far.

“Yeah it (winning the tournament) felt really good but I actually couldn’t believe it,” said Zaviacic.

Throughout the week, Zaviacic tests herself by playing practice matches against older boys.

“It’s challenging but it’s really enjoyable because I like having a go and trying to beat them,” said Zaviacic.

“It’s really enjoyable trying my best playing against them and seeing how I go.”

Photo: Mae Dumrigue