The Moorilla Hobart International have had the pleasure and privilege to have a number of Young Tournament directors this past week. As a Young Tournament Director many opportunities have arisen to partake in the things usually completed by the adults within the tournament. The benefits of having Young Tournament Directors is the fact that they are the up and coming tournament leaders and Moorilla is the first international tennis tournament to start their training early.
We hear from our Young Tournament Directors about their experience.
Hannah:
I worked in accreditation issuing identification passes to everyone. I met all the players, officials, coaches and many others involved in the Moorilla Hobart International. On the first day we ran out of ink. As a result of this, we had to wait until the next day when someone was flying over especially to deliver some more! Being a young TD has been a really fantastic experience!!!
Jesse:
My job was player services which I really enjoyed. I met quite a few players and i booked in players all by myself without supervision because Meg was too busy making porridge, getting cups of coffee and doing other stuff. I became quite independent and confident in myself so it’s a good experience and I enjoy it.
Catherine:
One of the many jobs at the Moorilla Hobart International was ‘Player Services’. My role was to hand out towels and drinks to the players. Lots of competitors and their coaches came in to book courts; others were in desperate need of drinks (thanks to the incredibly hot weather!) and some just wanted… jellybeans! Yes, one of the main attractions was the free jellybeans! Player Services is certainly a great job and an important part of the Moorilla 2013!
Vanessa:
As a Young TD I have gained many new skills and had many opportunities to experience the daily running and organisation of an International tournament. In my role I have become familiar with the incredible photo booth, outstanding jumping castle, devastating broken speed serve and the gorgeous face painting. This experience was fantastic, educational and I would love to do it again.
Erin:
One of the jobs I did as a young tournament director was centre court MC. I had to go onto centre court with the microphone and introduce players onto the court and give the winner a quick interview after the game. At first I was so nervous and didn’t want to go on the court but once I did it the first time I realised it was actually a pretty cool job and it was really fun. I really love it how we get to try so many different jobs and being a young TD.
Matt:
In my opinion this week has been great! My favourite part of being a Young Tournament Director was that I was allowed to go down to the Hobart waterfront with Francesca Schiavone who is ranked 35 in the whole world! One of the highlights was that I was able to interview her, which was amazing! It was great, and I will remember this experience forever!
Sam:
One of the many jobs that I took part in as a young TD at the Moorilla Hobart International was helping the sports commentator in the media box. During my time there, I was interviewed about my role as a young TD to help fill in the dead air time in the live streaming. This was a really great and fun experience and I got to learn a lot about what happens in the media whilst having an awesome view of the court and match!
Janaya:
I was fortunate enough to be chosen by Mark Handley to take part in the young TD program which has been a wonderful experience and one I definitely won’t forget. I have had the opportunity to converse with players even if it was as simple as just asking whether or not they needed a towel or a bottle of water. Being a young TD has allowed me to see first-hand how those on circuit train and also prepare themselves for matches which I believe I can take into my own practices and matches.