NOT many eightyearolds can lay claim to having had a hit on Rod Laver Arena but Tennis Hot Shot of the Year nominee Shayla Quinn will do just that when she joins the world’s biggest tennis stars at next year’s Australian Open.
The Mt Pleasant resident is one of just 12 nominees selected for the ultimate tennis experience.
The Tennis Hot Shot of the Year competition recognises and rewards a Hot Shots participant each month who best demonstrates the spirit of tennis through their participation, enthusiasm and enjoyment of the game.
Get in front of tomorrow's news for FREE
Journalism for the curious Australian across politics, business, culture and opinion.
READ NOWCurrently playing Hot Shots at Applecross Tennis Club, Shayla is aiming to improve her serve and ultimately aspires to be as good as her tennis idol, Perth-born Casey Dellacqua.
The budding player youngster said she was looking forward to attending the first Grand Slam of the year.
“I can’t believe someone my age could win a big competition like this,” she said.
“I can’t wait to go to the Australian Open and cheer on some of my favourite players.
“I’m looking forward to playing on Rod Laver Arena. I’m a bit nervous but excited at the same time.”
In January, Shayla will join the other nominees at Melbourne Park where the Tennis Hot Shot of the Year will be announced at an official awards ceremony.
The winner will receive $5000, a year’s worth of free coaching and a tennis lesson with ANZ Tennis Hot Shots ambassador Alicia Molik and three friends at their tennis club.