Woodcroft's Kristian Baker proves an ace in covering the courts

WOODCROFT'S Kristian Barker fulfilled two dreams at the Australian Open in Melbourne last month.

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WOODCROFT'S Kristian Barker fulfilled two dreams at the Australian Open in Melbourne last month.

Not only was he a ballboy for more than 20 grand slam matches, he also met world No.1 Novak Djokovic during an open training session.

"He walked straight past me and he signed my ball," the 12-year-old said.

"It was just great, I got to meet him but photos weren't allowed."

Kristian's job as a ballboy involved standing at the net and rolling the ball to players between points.

The selection period involved six training camps in Melbourne which included cardio and strength tests.

He was one of 380 children selected from a list of 2500 applicants.

"It was a great experience and I want to do it again," he said. "I'm going to The Philippines next year but I want to do it again in two years' time. I didn't get to do the big games, they put the more experienced kids on the main courts."

Kristian worked in 45-minute shifts during afternoon and night matches.

He recently started Year 7 at Terra Sancta College, Schofields, and also started playing competitive tennis.

His mum Raquel said the experience was exciting for the whole family.

"It was just great, we were very excited about Kristian getting this chance," Mrs Barker said.

"It's a once in a lifetime opportunity for him."