Becker selects ball kids for O2

 

Originally published on: 19/04/13 00:00

Becker attended the final trial at Northwood Health & Racquets club in London after a nationwide programme saw 2500 youngsters take part in regional trials.

After an intensive six-hour trial which saw the candidates – all aged between 12 and 16 – tested on agility, endurance, co-ordination, ball skills, balance and speed, the 100 finalists were whittled down to 30.

“By the end of the day the selectors had some serious work to do to choose the best 30 Barclays Ball Kids,” Becker said. “For those who have been selected it’s a great opportunity for them to get involved in the very best in tennis.

“Sport is about teamwork, about concentration, about having a goal and being a unit to reach that goal. The earlier you learn that the better it is for the rest of your life.”

David Wheldon, Barclays managing director of brand, reputation and citizenship, said: “Over the last few years we have seen more than 5000 kids come through the Barclays Ball Kids’ programme.

“Whilst I would like to congratulate the final 30, our ambition is to make sure that all those who have participated, even if for only one day, can take away benefits and skills.”

The final 30 chosen by the Barclays Ball Kids Talent ID Team are: Adam Ashton, Asha Badiani, Oscar Bartlett, Jared Bones, Olivia Crowhurst, Kaine Dowden, Hannah Ferrett, Jack Hadley, Emma Hancock, George Hart, Alice Hill, Raia Jagger, Tijan Lambert, Henry Lidington, Joanna Minnis, Thomas Morris, Jose Pegorini, Daisy Phillips, Georgina Post, David Quayle, Eden Richardson, Jennifer Shaw, Olivia Sofroniou, Gemma Southwick, Alex Spencer, India Taylor, Joanna Tomlinson, Elliot Walker, Maxim Wallace, Maryam Williams

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