Friday 1 January is Family Day at the Brisbane International.
For a gold coin donation you can see fan-favourites Marcos Baghdatis, Daniela Hantuchova, Casey Dellacqua, Scott Draper and Nicole Pratt square off against each other in a mixed doubles match with a difference.
The two international tennis stars, Baghdatis and Hantuchova, will each be joined by an interchange team. Team Baghdatis will comprise Dellacqua, Pratt and Queensland National Academy player Ashleigh Barty. Team Hantuchova will comprise Draper,Queensland National Academy player Travis Boon and Brisbane International Tournament Director, Steve Ayles.
Ayles said he is excited to play a part in the Family Day.
“The day will give the people of Queensland a taste of what is to come at the Brisbane International.
“This event is designed to engage families and tennis enthusiasts with the tournament as well as provide an avenue for the community to be involved in the sport and Tennis Queensland’s programs.
“It is a chance for tennis fans to explore the facilities, watch some of the qualifying action from the Brisbane International and see some of the top tennis stars in action on centre court.
“But the most important thing about the day is that all the money raised will go to a very worthy charity.”
Tennis Queensland CEO, Tom Larner said the charity is close to the tennis community’s heart.
“We are pleased to be able to support the Kim Walters Choices Program,” Larner said.
“All proceeds collected from the day will go towards women, men and their families affected by a breast or gyneacological cancer diagnosis.
“In late 2009, the Queensland tennis community was deeply saddened by the passing of Lisa Orford and Kylie Frawley and tomorrow we remember them by collecting for the Kim Walters Choices Program.
“Members of Lisa’s family will be on site tomorrow collecting for Choices and we encourage everyone to give generously and we thank you for your donations.”
The official program starts on Pat Rafter Arena at 12pm and the exhibition match to commence at 1pm.
The exhibition match will be followed by Radio station 4BC “Beat the Pro” competition.
There will also be on-site demonstrations, kid’s activities at the Courier Mail Interactive Zone and other competitions ensuring an afternoon of family fun for all.
On the outer courts, the qualifying rounds begin with local and international players fight it out for the remaining places in the main draw.
Gates open at 9:00 am with the price of admission a gold coin.
Brisbane International 2010 series packages and single sessions are on sale now. Ground passes remain $9.90 with the qualifying event on Friday 1–2 January 2010 remaining free.
Tickets can be purchased online at www.ticketek.com.au or 1300 888 104.