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Brian Balderson

What years were you a Ball Boy?

1955 & 1958

What courts did you look after, what age were you?

courts 14, 3, 2, 1, centre.

Did you enjoy the task and why?

Yes I did enjoy Wimbledon, it was a great honour to appear on the courts with players of great distinction. It was also a chance to show your face on the TV if you were lucky.

Did anything unusual/funny happen whilst you were on court?

I was opposite the royal box end when Lew Hoad served an "ace" which promptly caught me in the "goolies" the Duchess of Kent was not amused when Hoad returned to serve without offering an apology. HRH made clear to the Ref after the tea break.

Which player did you most enjoy meeting and why?

Ken Rosewall, he was a great player and always thanked the ball boys for their services on the court. He would always stop and talk to the ball boys and took a great interest in Goldings.

Who is your favourite tennis player today?

Being a true Brit, I support Tim Henman and really hope that he will claim that title for Britain one day.

Do you play tennis now and if so do you belong to a club?

No,  just had a "hip replacement" so cannot get of the mark as yet. but I do hope to play again soon.

Would you like to add any further information?

Did the general public know that a Goldings Ball boy started his day at 7am cleaned his dormitory etc and travelled from Hertford to Wimbledon each day. Having been on court 2pm-7pm then return to Goldings sometimes as late as midnight. We were "The Best in The World"

From: Brian Balderson Feltham Middx.

 

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