Courting greatness

FOLLOWING in the foot-steps of another tennis star, this Hewitt was born with an advantage, having the same last name as one of the grand-slam greats.
But the question looms as to whether Matio will challenge the talent of the Aussie ace, with hopes he won’t fault in a dream to qualify as the next Hewitt hero.
At just 11 years of age this young star has big expectations on himself – looking up to the likes of Roger Federer, he would like to see himself in similar shoes one day.
After moving to Australia in 2009, the Pakenham Consolidated student’s interest in the sport grew, appreciating the greater prominence tennis had in Australia.
“When I moved to Australia I had a hit and thought I would want to join,” Hewitt said.
Although he enjoyed tennis while living in New Zealand, the opportunities weren’t as great, with less focus on the sport.
It didn’t take Hewitt long before he picked up a racquet, and he quite quickly got into the swing of things.
The tennis player agreed it’s the simple aspects of the sport which led him to enjoy it so much.
“I just like hitting the ball around and winning points,” he said.
“I like feeling excited before the game.”
Under the guidance of coach Paul Osborne, the young gun has played at a tournament in Maffra and is looking forward to another one in Bendigo.
Currently practising three times a week, the youngster wishes he could do more.
“I would like to do it more,” he said.
“Every day even.”
Hewitt said he wants as much practise as possible.
“Just to get more experience,” he said.
Hitting the court whenever he can, the sportsman also likes to watch the game when he gets the chance, getting down to the Australian Open to see his stars in action.
“I do like watching it,” he said.
But nothing beats the feeling of running around yourself, with dreams that one day he will be more than a spectator at the Australian Open.