Ball Kids, Volunteers Sought for 2015 BNP Paribas Open

The BNP Paribas Open tennis tournament is accepting applications for volunteers and “ball kids,” organizers said today.

The 2015 tournament will be held March 9-22 at the Indian Wells Tennis Garden.

People ages 12-20 can be “ball kids” -- those interested can fill out an online application and must take an assessment test. They must attend four training sessions in January and February, and work at least five sessions, including two day sessions.

Ball kids work at more than 300 qualifying and main draw matches, and receive a uniform and access to player autographs and a party on the tournament’s final weekend, according to organizers.

More than 1,200 volunteers work on 19 committees -- the largest is ushering -- at the tournament. They must serve 48 hours between March 9 and March 22, and get an official shirt and credential.

The BNP Paribas Open is considered the world’s most-attended combined event for the Association of Tennis Professionals and Women’s Tennis Association. This year’s tournament drew more than 431,000 people, according to organizers.

Last February, a second stadium, three restaurants and a shade structure opened on the tennis garden grounds.

For more information and volunteer applications, go to www.bnpparibasopen.com.

--City News Service.