Angus enjoys masterclass with tennis legend

BALLYMONEY lad Angus Johnston enjoyed a tennis master-class with former Wimbledon champion Pat Cash and French Open finalist Mansour Bahrami on Saturday as the race to become a Barclays Ball Kid reached the final stage.

The 12-year-old Dalriada School pupil was among 119 youngsters at the Barclays Ball Kids National Trials at Westway Sports Centre in London with the best 30 set to attend the ATP World Tour Finals in November.

Angus was tested on his agility, endurance, co-ordination, ball skills, balance, speed and team work as Cash, Bahrami and Andy Murray’s former coach Mark Petchey ran the rule over his sporting prowess.

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And Angus – who plays his tennis at the ATT Club in Kells – admitted it would be a dream come true to share the court with the likes of Murray, Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal at the O2 in November.

“I persuaded my parents to let me come over here for the trial in Bristol and when I got through they couldn’t really say no to coming again because it’s such a great opportunity,” said Angus.

“Mum was a bit easier to persuade than Dad but he’s enjoyed it as well and it’s definitely been worth it.

“I’d love to be a ball boy at the O2 and get to be so close to Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal because they’re my favourite players.”

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The nationwide Barclays Ball Kids search began last November with Angus – who also plays badminton and rugby – qualifying for the national trial at The City Academy in Bristol last month.

And Cash – who along with Bahrami and Petchey will have a hand in selecting the winners – believes Angus did everything he could to be part of the lucky 30 on November 21.

“It was a fantastic day and Angus was very impressive,” said Cash.

“All the kids showed a great attitude and it will undoubtedly be a difficult decision to choose the winners. But it is a fantastic opportunity for the winners to go down to the O2 and get to experience what will be a great week for them all.”

For more information on becoming a Barclays Ball Kid at the Barclays ATP World Tour Finals in London visit www.barclaysballkids.com