Written by Steve Law | 22 June 2011

I had the privilege of interviewing a former student of mine who was working in the media department pre-Wimbledon. Marina Lavarello is studying Sport and Exercise Science at Birmingham University, and has been a huge Rafa fan as far back as I can remember.

What's the players lounge like?
"When I was there the wooden floor was still being put down and the canteen was being fitted as they had expanded it this year. However, it looked nice but nothing out of the ordinary apart from the view which on a nice day is beautiful. It is divided into 2 sections, one for food and the other with lots of sofas and TVs."

What's the balcony view like?
"The balcony was lovely. Perfect lawn just like everywhere and had a great view of the complex and especially the new court 3. I felt a real buzz up there and could only imagine being there during the Champs."

How does it feel to be where Nadal is going to be sitting?
"Well knowing what a big Rafa fan I am it was a little surreal and very exciting and wishing him to just walk through the door! I couldn't help but wondering what he's like up there and what all the players get up to."

If you saw Nadal what would you ask him?
"I think i would probably be speechless and embarrass myself with some sort of nervous mumble and giggle! But something along the lines of 'dump your girlfriend and have me?!' However, related to tennis it would probably be 'what is his greatest fear and what is his proudest moment to date'"

What type of preparation is going on?
"Lots of painting of walls, gates, benches.....pretty much everything you can imagine. In the mornings there is the sound of the mowers on the courts while everything else is very quiet. TV crews and press are starting to set up in their rooms downstairs while in our office the phone doesn't stop ringing with enquires about players from the press, possible sponsorships, getting tickets.....again everything you can think of."

Have you met any of the media presenters or are you likely to?
"I saw a few as there was some BBC filming going on while I was there, but didn't actually get to meet any unfortunately."

What is the atmosphere like working there?
"The atmosphere was electric and with every day grew and grew as the Championships got closer. It started to become very busy and there was a real buzz around the grounds."

Who would you love to speak to/interview?
"If I could interview one player it would be Nadal, of course! If i could interview one former player it would have to be John Mac....think we would have a good laugh and I love the fact that he is so open with his opinions."   

How do you think the players feel the first time they are here?
"It must be so exciting yet nerve racking as you don't want to waste the opportunity. Everything about Wimbledon is so grand and there is so much history and tradition around it that I think players would feel pressure to live up to this. It is like no other tournament in the world."

Thanks for your insights Marina. You are a star.

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