For many years an observer, the Echuca-Moama tennis fan will now get the chance to experience it herself as an official ball kid for the 2021 Australian Open.
“It's really exciting to get the opportunity to be a part of the event,” Jillie said.
“I never thought I'd get in, so just getting the opportunity is amazing. I still can't believe it.”
A regular attendee of the Australian Open with her family, 13-year-old Jillie was as interested in how they operated as the big name players on the court.
“I've always watched what they do closely and how they go about their role,” she said.
“I thought it would be an amazing experience to be a part of the Open as a ball kid, so I've been nagging mum about it for a few years to register me.
“Once I got to the age you need to be mum put my name down, and last year I was invited to the trials in late March. But they ended up being cancelled.”
Later in the year, as the 2021 Australian Open became far more likely, her mum received an email to see if Jillie was still interested.
Naturally, she was.
Just a few weeks ago she was headed to Orrong Park Tennis Centre for a three-day trial.
“I was the 1800th person to try out,” Jillie said.
“They give you a rundown of what they are looking for, assess you on your urgency for the ball and hand-eye co-ordination. We were then tested on some of the things you have to do on court, rolling the balls and service as well.
“We then had a simulated match with six ball kids where we were all assessed. It was an interesting experience, but I really enjoyed it.”
After being chosen, Jillie had to fit the equivalent of nearly a year's training into just a few short weeks, including more than a bit of time on YouTube watching and learning about her role, as well as training on the tournament's COVID protocols.
But soon the tournament's fixture will be out and she will know what matches she could be involved in.
And though she'd love to watch some of her favourite players, the experience is what matters.
“The night before you are told where you are zoned, what time and who will be on court,” Jillie said.
“I'd love to be on court with Ash Barty or Rafa Nadal of course, but those assignments will go to the experienced ball kids. I don't mind what matches I get. I get to be a part of the event and that's what matters to me.
“It's something that I will probably be talking about for the rest of my life.”
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