CINCINNATI (WKRC) – The Cincinnati Open may be a world-class tennis event, but it relies on volunteers to keep matches running smoothly, from early mornings to late nights and even through rain delays.
Lilly Rich, an avid tennis player and fan, is one of those volunteers as part of the tournament’s ballcrew.
The Cincinnati Open may be a world-class tennis event, but it relies on volunteers to keep matches running smoothly, from early mornings to late nights and even through rain delays. (WKRC)
“I really love getting to do it with all people who love tennis as well,” Rich said.
Rich is in her seventh year volunteering as a ballkid at the Cincinnati Open. Becoming a ballkid begins with tryouts in the summer, and the job requires more than chasing down balls. Ballkids also need to understand the game and how to score it. Those selected are on duty for the entire two-week tournament, and many return year after year.
“Your first few years you start off in some of the lower courts and then you kind of work your way up to center court and that’s kind of the main goal which is super exciting to get to do that,” Rich said.
Rich said being part of the excitement is one of the biggest rewards. “I would love to go as long as I can because I love it so much,” she said.
Local 12 meteorologist Anne Campolongo knows the experience firsthand. She was a ballgirl at the tournament for a few summers beginning in 2009, back when the event was called the Western & Southern Open. Returning to the court, Campolongo noted how much has changed since her time on the ballcrew, including renovations to the venue and updated ballcrew uniforms.
The Cincinnati Open may be a world-class tennis event, but it relies on volunteers to keep matches running smoothly, from early mornings to late nights and even through rain delays. (WKRC)
Ballkids are expected to stay focused and precise during matches. Along with retrieving balls, they handle towels and umbrellas during changeovers.
The two-week tournament in Mason is a highlight for tennis fans and volunteers alike, bringing people together in roles ranging from ushers and grounds crew to spectators and ballcrew members. The Cincinnati Open is also the last tournament before the U.S. Open in New York City.