Some local kids are getting ready to hit the courts as ball persons at the U.S. Open later this month. NY1's Clodagh McGowan filed the following report.
Shelly Yaloz is spending her summer vacation on the tennis court but she's up for the challenge.
"I enjoy playing tennis because of the competition because I learn so much from it. I learn how to handle getting out of tough situations. You can always turn a match around," said Yaloz, a Little Neck resident.
Now she's getting ready for the opportunity of a lifetime--working as a ball person at the U.S. Open.
The job's criteria includes being light on your feet and aiming to be nearly invisible while getting the ball off the court during matches.
"I worked a lot on throwing the balls, running after the balls, picking them up fast," said Yaloz.
Yaloz plays for New York Junior Tennis and Learning or NYJTL; a not for profit bringing tennis education to New Yorkers. The program was co-founded by legendary tennis player Arthur Ashe in 1971. Organizers say six kids who play for NYJTL will be on the sidelines during the U.S. Open this year.
"So, it's a big competition just to get in right? So it's amazing. It teaches them a lot of skills, a lot of hard work, dedication," said Elena Bantovska, the Director of Junior Development & Competition for NYJTL.
Gabriel Sifuentes knows all about the hard work and dedication needed to make the cut. He's gearing up for his second year as a ballperson and can't wait to get back on the sidelines.
"It's an amazing feeling 'cause I live a few minutes away from Arthur Ashe stadium. And since I'm from Queens, it's a great experience," said Sifuentes.
The kids say the U.S. Open is an opportunity to meet their role models and catch them in action.
"You learn so much from them, like how they deal with certain situations. And I can apply that in my life," said Sifuentes.
"I would love to be on the court with Federer, Djokovic," added Yaloz.
Until then, the kids will continue training here at the Carey Leeds Center for Tennis and Learning in the Bronx. But when the tournaments start, they'll be right in the middle of the action at the Billie Jean King National Tennis Center.