20 February 2018 | Lucy Hodsdon

To all the kids out there who asked for Will Hann‘s autograph at the Junior Australian Open, definitely hold on to it. Currently ranked number two in Western Australia for Juniors Tennis, Will made his debut at the 2018 Junior Australian Open at only 16 years of age.

“My favourite moment was probably just stepping out on court. We played on Court 7 which is a bigger court and it was pretty scary, but it was cool to have a lot of people there you know and a lot of people you don’t know.

“It was pretty surreal, all of these little kids coming up wanting your autograph, it was a bit overwhelming. I was a bit taken aback but it was pretty cool” continued Will.

While the accolades and the glamorous side of tennis can certainly be appealing, it’s not enough to deter Will from his desire for success. Instead of getting caught up in the hype, Will observed how teams from around the world prepared behind the scenes.

“I think watching the Europeans, how they go about everything, their professionalism in particular, I can probably take a leaf out of their book with that” Will said.

With a mindset like that and the determination to match it, everyone else will soon be watching Will to take a leaf out of his book.

 

Full Name: William Hann

Nickname: Hann… most people don’t know how to pronounce my last name right!

Age: 16

Birth Place: Perth, WA

Local Club: Cottesloe Tennis Club

Plays: Left handed

Coach: Andrew Roberts

How were you introduced to tennis? I have a brother who is two and a half years older than me, and my Mum enrolled him in a holiday clinic and I kind of just followed him as most younger brothers do. I went on to the State Academy when I was 10 and then when I was 13 I began with the National Academy – Perth. I’m really fortunate to be with the National Academy as it gives me the opportunity to develop my skills as an athlete. Plus I know that it has created opportunities for me that I wouldn’t have had otherwise.

Favourite Player: Rafael Nadal

Your goal for 2018? I can’t wait to graduate Year 12, with tennis probably just keep developing, keep improving and try to get the best out of myself!

Greatest achievement: Probably with Tristan Schoolkate, we tend to go pretty well in doubles. We recently made the final at the 16’s Australian Championships at the December Showdown. We also won our first Junior ITF title together in 2017.

Any pre-match rituals? Not really, just try to stay warm and calm

What song gets you pumped up before a match? ‘Little Pump’ by Gucci Gang

Favourite movie: American Assassin

Favourite food:  Sushi

If you could have any super power what would it be? Flying

Hobbies: Play Station 4, the beach, hanging out with friends

 

To learn more about other WA local Tristan Schoolkate please click here.