The University of Redlands student wanted to hit plenty of tennis balls during his six-month stay with the Margaret Court Tennis Academy and was keen to have a holiday.

Two months into his stay, Burchett doesn’t expect to go home disappointed.

“It’s a lot more laid back than California and that’s saying something because California is much more laid back than the rest of the United States,” Burchett, 20, said.

“It’s a great atmosphere.

“Everyone has been very hospitable.

“I have been working at places like St Patrick’s, Wodonga, Holbrook and Wooragee and then playing pennant on Saturdays.

“It’s a good life.”

Burchett’s father runs a tennis club in California.