The Junior Orange Bowl is not only an international tournament, it is one of the most important and prestigious junior tournaments in the world. The globally recognized event brings together over 1,300 of the top ranked male and female players, representing 76 countries. The tournament boasts an impressive alumni list of current pros including: Caroline Wozniacki, Genie Bouchard, Maria Sharapova, Alexander Zverev, Roger Federer, Juan Martin del Potro, Kei Nichikori, and Andy Murray. Former tennis greats such as Chris Evert, Jimmy Connors, Mary Joe Fernandez, Monica Seles, Andre Agassi and Steffi Graff have also participated. 

This year, one of ETC’s own had the chance to travel to south Florida and play in this prestigious event. Caden Scarlett, who is one of the areas top players has participated in numerous USTA Midwest and National tournaments. He decided to take his talents to South Beach (technically Key Biscane) to battle against some of the best players from the US and the rest of the world. Scarlett did not gain direct entry into the main draw, meaning he had to qualify to secure a spot into the main draw. 

Caden adapted quickly to the heat, humidity and outdoor conditions which is typically tough to do after being indoors for several months. His first opponent was fellow american Jaxon Lamb (Greenville, TN). Lamb is a five-star recruit and is ranked inside the top 100 nationally. 

Lamb got off to great start in the first set and took the first 6-1, but Scarlett stayed focused and committed to his game plan. Caden broke serve in the second game to even the score 1-1. From that point on, the players pushed each other in a back in forth manner. The score would eventually reach 4-4 with Scarlett serving. At 4-all in the second set, Lamb would eventually break and hold his serve to win the match 6-1, 6-4

  https://youtu.be/SDpHLf0f3DQ

Scarlett is the third boy from Evansville to play in the Orange Bowl since 2015.