28 February 2017 | Tennis Australia

There is less than a week to go until applications close for a spot in next years coveted Australian Open Woolworths Ballkids squad.

Boys and girls aged between 12-15 have until midnight Sunday 5 March to complete their online applications at www.tennis.com.au/ballkids for a chance to be involved in one of the world’s biggest sport events.

First round trials will take place across 40 locations around Victoria between March 12-26.

As part of the continued commitment to increasing opportunity for kids across Victoria, trials will be conducted in many regional area, including Mooroopna, Traralgon, Kyabram, Sale, Somers and Geelong.

“Working as part of a high performing team, and on court alongside the world’s best players is an incredible experience for all our ballkids,” Tennis Australia CEO and Australian Open Tournament Director Craig Tiley said.

“The Australian Open ballkids are renowned as among the most professional in the world and the players rate them highly.

“Every year we have more and more kids wanting to get involved and the opportunity is open to girls and boys between the ages of 12-15. We particularly look for kids who are eager to learn, responsible, hardworking, prepared to play their part in a well-oiled team and have good hand eye co-ordination,” Tiley continued.

Applications are also open for all Emirates AO Series events including Apia International Sydney, Brisbane International presented by Suncorp, Hobart International, Mastercard Hopman Cup (Perth) and World Tennis Challenge (Adelaide). These applications will close in July.

The training and selection process will take place over several months, with the final Australian Open 2018 Woolworths Ballkids squad announced in October.

FAST FACTS: Australian Open 2017 Woolworths Ballkids Squad

• Australian Open 2017 Woolworths Ballkids squad comprised 380 ballkids
• 333 ballkids were from Victoria
• 19 ballkids were from interstate: five from Queensland, six from New South Wales, three from South Australia, two from Tasmania, three from Western Australia
• 28 ballkids were international: 20 from Korea, six from China, two from France (Roland Garros)
• The Australian Open 2017 Top Ballkids were Campbell Steedman (Mt Eliza, Vic) and Summer Leatitagaloa (Footscray, Vic). As a reward, both Campbell and Summer will head to France this May to take part in the 2017 Roland Garros Ballkids squad.