2026 Ball Kid Program
Experience the tournament from the best seat in the house. The Performance Volvo Cars Pro Tennis Challenge Ball Kid Program gives junior tennis players the opportunity to step onto the court alongside world-class ATP professionals while gaining valuable experience, earning community service hours, and becoming part of one of Berks County's premier sporting events. Whether you're returning for another year or participating for the first time, we can't wait to welcome you to the team.
Register Today
Ready to experience professional tennis from inside the court?
Registration for the 2026 Ball Kid Program is now open for junior tennis players ages 8–18.
Registration Deadline: August 1, 2026, at 11:59 PM
Register Here: Registration Form
Who Can Apply?
The Ball Kid Program is open to junior tennis players ages 8–18. Participants must be at least 8 years old by August 16, 2026 to be eligible.
High school juniors and seniors may also be assigned to additional tournament roles such as court attendant, court liaison, scoreboard operator, or other event support positions based on tournament needs.
Students in grades 9–12 are eligible to earn up to 16 community service hours for participating.
Why Become a Ball Kid?
Being a ball kid is an unforgettable experience that puts you right in the middle of the action. Participants receive exclusive tournament perks while helping create a first-class experience for players and fans alike.
As a ball kid, you'll receive:
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Free admission to the tournament
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An official tournament T-shirt
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A complimentary Ellesse hat
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Lunch and/or dinner during your scheduled shift
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Water, snacks, sunscreen, and access to the Ball Kid tent throughout the day
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The opportunity to watch professional ATP matches from courtside when you're not on the court
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Community service hours for eligible high school students
Ball kids rotate throughout the day, spending one set on court before rotating off to rest, watch matches, and prepare for their next assignment.
Training & Tournament Schedule
All ball kids are required to attend a mandatory training session prior to the tournament.
Ball Kid Training
Wednesday, August 12, 2026
7:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Emkey Tennis Garden
Tournament Assignments
Participants may choose from the available tournament shifts during registration. Current scheduled shifts include:
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Monday morning/afternoon shift
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Monday afternoon/evening shift
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Tuesday semifinal and championship rounds
Exact reporting times and final schedules will be provided following registration.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Do parents need to stay during the tournament?
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Parents are welcome to attend the event, but are not required to remain on-site while their child is participating. Special discounted spectator ticket information will be shared with ball kid families before the tournament.
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Will my child be on court all day?
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No. Ball kids rotate throughout the event, alternating between time on court and time off court. While off court, participants can relax in the shaded Ball Kid tent, enjoy refreshments, and watch the matches from courtside.
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What should ball kids bring?
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Participants should wear comfortable athletic shoes and bring any personal items they may need throughout the day. Tournament apparel, meals, water, sunscreen, and other necessities will be provided.
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How many ball kids are selected?
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The tournament typically selects 14–16 ball kids, with six working on court during each match while others rotate throughout the day.
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About the Tournament
The Performance Volvo Cars Pro Tennis Challenge returns for its sixth year, bringing world-class ATP professional tennis back to Berks County. Held at the Emkey Tennis Garden in Wyomissing, the tournament features professional players competing for more than $10,000 in prize money, with many participants continuing on to compete at the US Open the following week.
The event is internationally streamed on Cracked Racquets, one of the largest tennis streaming platforms in the United States, and proudly benefits the Olivet Boys & Girls Club.