Jr. Orange Bowl 49th International Tennis Championship Main Draw Begins

(CORAL GABLES, DEC 16, 2010) – Excitement is building as the qualifying portion of the Junior Orange Bowl Tennis Championship is in the books, meaning the festivities of the main draw begin on Friday.

For some players, the experience is a brand new one. With nations all over the world represented, many individuals are setting foot in the United States for the first time. Others have played in this prestigious event in the past.

“This is my third Orange Bowl,” said Maryland's Michael Mmoh of the boys 12 & under, who was the runner-up at the Eddie Herr International Junior championship. “I'm very excited to be here. There are some really good players in each group.”

Romania's Ioana Ducu, ranked fourth in the girls 14 & under, is in the US for the first time and while she is bracing for the strong competition, she is already enjoying her time in Miami.

“It's a very nice place, and I think I will come back next year,” Ducu said with a smile.

The event will take place at four different locations: boys 14 & under (University of Miami Tennis Center), girls 14 & under (Biltmore Tennis Center), boys 12 & under (Tropical Park Tennis Center), and girls 12 & under (Salvadore Park).

For more information on the Junior Orange Bowl Committee (JOBC) call (305) 662-1210 or visit www.jrorangebowl.org/tennis.