Andrew McBride qualified through his club and county Road to Wimbledon events and played in the National finals at SW19. Here is his story:
"In August I got the amazing opportunity to play on the hallowed turf of Wimbledon in the Road to Wimbledon National Finals. To reach SW19, I had to win the Club stage and then either win or be runner-up in the County stage. Henri Morland won the county final and I was runner-up and then qualified for the final as one of the best rated runners-up.
"When I reached Wimbledon I was amazed at the courts. They were by far the best quality grass courts I have ever played on! We arrived on Sunday to register and have a practice on the world renowned grass. The tournament was to be played on the Aorangi Park courts; the practice courts for pros when they take part in Wimbledon. I thought I was only going to know a couple of people but luckily I knew lots of the other competitors from other tournaments over the years.
"Monday arrived and it was an early start with my first match scheduled for 10.30am. I went on and I think the Wimbledon magic kicked in! I managed to win the match in 3 sets against a tough opponent from Norfolk. At about 3pm I went on for my next match against a very highly rated opponent. I played well but he was just too good and he won in straight sets.
"On Tuesday I played another singles match and a first round doubles match with Henri. I came through both matches with tight score lines. By now I was really enjoying the experience of The All England Club and its surroundings.
"'Knockout Wednesday' rolled on with a singles and a doubles to be played. I managed to win my singles despite being overawed by the location – right next to the beautiful lawn croquet courts – as did Henri in a fantastic match. Unfortunately Henri and I were beaten soundly in the doubles by strong opponents, the 'sudden death deuce' having a big impact on the score line. In the afternoon we took the opportunity to participate in a tour of the grounds. We had a look inside Centre Court and No 1 and I even got to sit in the press conference room. I had visited Centre Court in 2011 but hadn't realised the sheer size of the 15,000 capacity stadium.
"Thursday began with a great victory in my singles, playing my best tennis yet, followed by the first drops of rain in the whole week! My second singles match was put on quickly but was plagued by rain and by now my legs were feeling the week of tennis. I bowed out in three sets. Henri was knocked out on Thursday too so we said our goodbyes to Henri and his family who had been great company all week.
"Friday was a day of almost total rain so I stayed to watch the semi-finals take place indoor as well as taking a look around the Wimbledon shop and museum. The museum was fascinating with it holding many great artefacts. The icing of the cake however was the actual Wimbledon trophies that were on display. I was surprised to hear that they never leave Wimbledon!
"Saturday was Finals Day! Although I had already been knocked out, I stayed to watch some truly top class tennis from some of the best 14 and under players in the country. There was also a clinic running that day with Tim Henman and Dan Bloxham. I gave that a go and had a fantastic insight into the training methods the professionals use and even got to hit some balls with Tim!
"Overall taking part in the Road to Wimbledon National Finals was one of the best experiences I have ever had and would recommend the competition to any 14 and under player."
- Andrew McBride