Back to Alcott switches microphone for court time

Alcott switches microphone for court time

7 January 2017, by brisbaneinternational.com.au

Newcombe Medallist and Paralympic gold medallist Dylan Alcott has been bringing his insights to the commentary team at Brisbane International 2017 Presented by Suncorp as he prepares for a weekend on court in the Brisbane International Wheelchair Exhibition.

The 26-year- old enjoyed a phenomenal season in 2016, winning two Paralympic gold medals and becoming the first wheelchair tennis player to be honoured with the Newcombe Medal.

His 2017 season will continue taking Alcott from the court to the world on air, as he takes on exciting positions in the media world by joining the Triple J news team and the commentary team for Channel 7.

“I’ve always wanted to work in the media and also to change the perception of people with a disability in the mainstream. Imagine listening to triple j and talking to Kanye West and you’re not talking about being in a wheelchair but you are, I think that’s pretty powerful,” he said.

Alcott will play an exhibition match on Pat Rafter Arena to prelude the women’s final on Treasury Brisbane Day, giving ticket-holders the chance to experience the thrill of wheelies tennis.

On Friday, he beat his Rio Paralympic doubles partner Heath Davidson to kick off his Brisbane International campaign.

From Brisbane, Alcott will travel to Sydney to play in the Apia International, before heading to Australian Open 2017 where he will again combine commentary with competitive tennis.

“I start playing tennis the second week (of the Australian Open), so I’ll train and commentate the first week and obviously just knuckle down and play after that,” he said.