A PLACE in the world's top 50 has been the dream of wheelchair tennis player Jason Ward since he decided to dedicate himself to the game in 1994. On April 1 the News Shopper reported on Ward's tournament success in Australia and New Zealand. Since then the 27-year-old has moved on to 46 in the world and a place among the sport's elite.

When Ward was recovering from a back injury in 1991 he met one of Britain's premier wheelchair tennis exponents, Bob Dockerill, who suggested he take up the game. By 1997 he was having lessons at Tunbridge Wells Indoor Sports and Tennis Centre under coach Graeme Livingstone. "His influence was huge. I started hitting with him in February 1997 and he was coaching me for nothing," said Ward.

Members at the Senior Health and Fitness Club saw how well Ward was playing and offered to pay for 10 lessons a week. It was in August that he had his really lucky break after a speculative letter to Japanese car parts distributor Blue Print. "That made the big difference. I had been trying to get sponsors for the previous three years," said Ward.

Travel and expenses during international ranking events can amount to an enormous bill. Ward and Livingstone were invited to a meeting with Blue Print managing director Chris Jeffries who stunned them when he offered a three-year deal which would cover all travel, hotel and coaching costs.

"We were impressed by Jason and his determination to succeed in wheelchair tennis and hope that, by supporting him, we will not only help him to reach the Paralympics, but also raise awareness of Blue Print with a much wider audience," said Mr Jeffries.

In addition Ward received a car and has his petrol costs paid. "It is amazing. I have to pinch myself and say `Have I really got this? When I'm away at tournaments I ring them weekly and let them know what's going on," said Ward.

He now plays five or six times a week and has climbed 94 places in the world rankings since July last year. He said his backhand was weak to begin with but constant attention has made it a weapon. He has also concentrated heavily on the return of serve as, in wheelchair tennis, it is essential to take advantage of the server's stationary position. "My coach stands right at the net and serves as hard as he can at me," said Ward.

Livingstone thinks his pupil can make it to the top of the game. "It's entirely up to him. If he's got the motivation and drive, he's top 10 potential," he said. "He's very competitive. He's disciplined, has a big first serve and the ability to hit winners off both sides."

Ward is ranked four in Great Britain, which should earn him a place in the national side for the World Team Cup in Barcelona later this year. "I feel quite confident I'm going to be picked," said Ward, who was hoping to secure his place with a good showing in the National Championships last weekend in Sheffield. After that he has his sights set on making the British Paralympic team which travels to Sydney in 2000. At present only two players will be selected but Ward feels a place is within his grasp. "I don't know if I'm going to be world number one but I think I can reach the top 10," he said.

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