Dawkins-Schwiening hoping to have a ball

The 12-year-old North Leamington School pupil was one of 100 youngsters given expert tuition by Rusedski at the Barclays Ball Kids National Trial at Westway Sports Centre in London.

Up for grabs is the prize of starring alongside Novak Djokovic, Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal at the O2 as one of 30 ball kids for the ATP World Tour Finals in November.

Dawkins-Schwiening demonstrated his talent in front of Rusedski as well as Mark Petchey, the former coach of current British number one Andy Murray, who will also be in action at the ATP World Tour Finals.

And University of Warwick Tennis Club’s Dawkins-Schwiening admitted it would be a dream come true to rub shoulders with the likes of Murray and his international rivals later this year.

“It would be just amazing to meet all the players and be able to help them,” said Dawkins-Schwiening, who has beaten off competition from thousands of 12 to 16-year-olds to make it this far.

“My sister Martha was a Barclays Ball Kid before and she told me what a great experience it is.

“I would absolutely love to be selected and it is such a good opportunity to meet new people, meet famous tennis players and make friends.”

The nationwide Barclays Ball Kids search began in January with Dawkins-Schwiening - whose favourite player is Nadal - qualifying from the East Midlands regional trial at The Nottingham Tennis Centre.

And Rusedski, who along with Petchey will select the lucky winners, believes Dawkins-Schwiening will be in for a treat he will never forget should he reach the O2.

“This is a wonderful opportunity for these kids because if you love your tennis then you get to see the eight best players in the world and be on the same court as them,” said Rusedski.

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