Somerset Hills Red and Orange Ball Tennis Program will be starting on Monday January 12th 2026 at 4 and 5pm. The location will be the Pickle Jar at 315 Roycefield road, Hillsborough, New Jersey 08844. We are very excited about this innovation in teaching concepts. 

Here are the criteria for advancement

Program Overview

Our 5-week youth development program introduces young athletes to tennis through a fun, progressive, and age-appropriate curriculum. Players use red and orange low-compression balls on smaller courts to promote confidence, proper technique, and longer rallies. Students are grouped by skill level to ensure that each player develops at their own pace, with a clear pathway to progress to the next stage.

Skill Group Descriptions

Red Ball 1 – This group uses red balls and is designed for beginners who are learning the fundamentals of tennis. Instruction focuses on building coordination, balance, and basic racket skills. Players will work on forehand and backhand strokes, practice underhand serving, and begin to develop basic rallying abilities.

Red Ball 2 – Also using red balls, this group is for players who have progressed to the stage where they can rally 3–5 shots. The emphasis shifts to achieving consistent contact with the ball, developing greater directional control, refining grip technique, and establishing a reliable serve and return.

**Red Ball Levels**

Level

Ball Type

Description

Red Ball 1

For beginners learning coordination, balance, and basic racket skills. Players focus on forehands, backhands, underhand serving, and basic rallying.

Red Ball 2

For players who can rally 3–5 shots. Emphasis on consistent contact, directional control, proper grip, and reliable serve and return.

Red Ball 3

Players rally 6–8 shots with control, move effectively, and begin overhand serving and basic match play on 36’ courts.

**Orange Ball Levels**

Level

Ball Type

Description

Orange Ball 1

Transition to 60’ courts. Focus on longer rallies, topspin, directional hitting, and improved footwork.

Orange Ball 2

Players rally 10+ shots and begin using tactics such as hitting to open space and approaching the net. Serves show accuracy and placement.

Orange Ball 3

Advanced 10U players ready for competition. Emphasis on rally depth, serve variation, consistency, and preparation for green ball/full-court play.

Advancement Criteria

To progress through levels, players must demonstrate:
1. Rally Consistency: Control and sustain rallies using proper form.
2. Technical Fundamentals: Correct grips, swing paths, and balanced footwork.
3. Court Awareness: Smart positioning, spacing, and shot selection.
4. Match Readiness: Ability to start and play points independently using scoring.
5. Sportsmanship: Positive attitude, teamwork, and respect for others.