Juniors - New to the Game
If you are just starting to learn about tennis...
Finding a Facility
Becoming a member at a local club is one of the best ways to get your child started in the game of tennis. Local clubs have the resources to help your child enjoy and excel at the game. These resources can be anywhere from one-on-one private lessons to group clinics for practice against other players similar in age. Greater Cincinnati has a wide variety of tennis clubs in the area. Click here for a list of clubs in the area.
Equipment
Check with your club to find out what size racquet is best for your child. Racquet manufacturers offer age appropriate equipment. Most clubs will have a pro shop with demo racquets that you can borrow before you decide which racquet you want. Check with the club pro to see which racquet best suits you; they will help direct you as to where to buy your racquet.
10 and Under Tennis
10 and Under Tennis is the equivalent to Baseball's Teeball. Through age appropriate equipment and professional instruction, the 10 and Under program is a fun way to help kids learn how to play tennis quickly.
- 10 and Under is recommended for children ages 4-14.
- Kids are divided by ability and age from beginners to advanced.
- Beginners are typically age 4-7 and primarily use foam teaching balls to learn to rally.
- Intermediate players are typically age 6-10 and implement both the foam teaching balls and low pressure balls with a slightly bigger court to rally and learn point play.
- Advanced play is typically age 6-14 and is for players who can rally (5-10 ball points) and keep score with low pressure balls.
In 2014, the USTA implemented a revised tournament structure for players under the age of 11. This revised tournament structure allows for players to advance to various stages of the 10 and Under Tennis pathway as they show competency within each stage of play while using appropriate equipment. For more information, download the pdf here.
Taking Lessons/Group Clinics
Area clubs employ knowledgeable tennis pros to teach clinics and private lessons. Lessons are a critical part of learning the game in that your child can get one-on-one attention to correctly learn the proper stroke production. These new skills can be implemented during group clinics to build on the improvements made during the lesson. Group clinics (divided by skill level) are necessary for peer-to-peer play experience, while lessons teach the fundamentals and strategy of the game. Click here for a pdf list of clubs in the area.
F.A.S.T. Tennis - Fun At School Tennis
The Goal of FAST is to change the way youth tennis is played. We are doing this by offering tennis sign ups through schools similar to other sports. Visit www.fasttennis.org to sign up for our Fall and Spring School Leagues held at local clubs.
Other Resources
For more information on getting started in this sport, please visit any of the links below.
Your Tennis Pathway to Success (PDF)
USTA website for 10 and Under Tennis
Unites States Professional Tennis Association (USPTA)
Professional Tennis Registry (PTR)
