Amazing.
That's the only word Fosterville Gold Tennis Centre general manager James Rouel needed to describe the success of last week's Bendigo International Women's Pro Tour.
In his first year in the top job at the centre, he said it was successful on all fronts.
"We had great players on the court, officiators and all of the help from Tennis Australia and Victoria was excellent," Rouel said.
"It was a fantastic week down at the centre."
In addition to having the opportunity to see some of the world's best players in action, Rouel believed the tournament helped boost tennis participation in Bendigo.
"The tournament makes a huge difference to draw people to tennis and gives us a platform to grow the sport here in the city," he said
"All the while being able to watch some of the best tennis players in the world right here in our backyard."
Lizette Cabrera claimed her third singles title of the year on Sunday in the final.
The 21-year-old from Queensland stormed to victory in straight sets against fellow Australian Maddison Inglis, final scores 6-2 6-3.
Despite the loss, Inglis' finals appearance was her best ever performance at the tournament, in addition to being crowned as the doubles champion along side her close friend Kaylah McPhee.
The Australian duo defeated Naiktha Bains (GBR) and Tereza Mihalikova 3-6 6-2 10-2 in the final.
"Fantastic to have a new champion of the tournament," Rouel said.
"Lizette had been here a few times so congratulations to her for finally going all the way.
"And to Maddison too who made finals after only ever making it to the second round here."
Rouel also praised the other stars of the show, the squad of ballkids and volunteers who helped during the week.
"It was fantastic work from all of them," he said.
"The ballkids are all coached or play competition here in Bendigo and it was great of them to put up their hand to come out and help this week.
"Especially on the day where we experienced 34 degree heat."
The ballkids gained experience operating in tennis tournament environments at a professional level.
"It's great exposure," Rouel said.
"It gives them a firsthand look at what it's like to be around some of the best in the world.
"If they enjoy the experience it also provides the pathway for them to tryout to be ballkids at the Australian Open."
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