GIFFNOCK'S Alicia Gates insists she will never forget her outing at the All England Club after starring in front of former British No.1 Tim Henman as part of the HSBC Road to Wimbledon National 14 and Under Challenge Finals.

The 13-year-old Woodfarm High School pupil booked herself a spot at SW19 after competing in the West of Scotland county finals. She then won three group matches before being knocked out in the second round of the Girls' main draw.

Around 20,000 young players from all over Britain competed in pursuit of a prestigious place at Wimbledon, with Gates among the top 144 boys and girls who earned the right to play at the National Finals.

Despite failing to follow in fellow Scot Andy Murray's footsteps by lifting silverware at Wimbledon, Gates admitted her outing at the All England Lawn Tennis Club was the highlight of her summer.

"It felt really special to play at Wimbledon," Gates said. "We were able to get on the grass courts when there were no other tennis players there apart from all of us competing.The tournament was great because I got to play lots of new people from different counties and try my best with no pressure.

"It's important to have a good attitude, not just play well and win."

The Giffnock Tennis Club starlet was thrilled to meet former British No.1 and HSBC Tournament Ambassador Henman while at Wimbledon.

Afterwards he insisted he was impressed with the standard on show this year at SW19. "I've been involved with this programme for 12 years and it's fantastic to see how the standard has improved," said Henman.

www.hsbcroadtowimbledon.com

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