How to start a youth tennis program

Whether you’re looking to launch a 10 and Under Tennis program at a club, public facility or in an after-school setting, it’s easy to get started.  It’s important that there is someone in charge (e.g. club manager, pro, program director, etc.) who is committed to ensuring that 10 and Under Tennis is promoted and taught the right way.  This person should do the following:

• 1Find people who are good at working with this age group to be instructors.
• 2Get instructors trained through a QuickStart Tennis workshop, as well as a Recreational Coach workshop.  Find a youth tennis workshop near you at www.usta.com/coaches_oncourt_training.
• 3Purchase kids tennis equipment such as nets, balls and extra racquets—in case kids come with the wrong equipment.  If you offer USTA programs as a registered CTA, registered NJTL, USTA Organization Member Schools, or USTA Organization Member Parks, you may be eligible for equipment discounts.  Tennis facilities and teaching pros not affiliated with one of these groups can typically get comparable discounts through their local equipment reps.
• 4Decide whether or not you want permanent lines on your courts and/or playing surface.  The USTA offers grants for youth tennis projects, so it’s easy and affordable to line tennis courts or surfaces such as blacktops.  If interested, go to www.usta.com/facilities  to fill out a facility assistance request form.  You can also apply for grants to build permanent 36’ and 60’ courts.  Another simple method for lining courts is by using tape or throw down lines.
• 5Market your program by using the online marketing resource www.usta.com/marketingresources where templates are available to promote 10 and Under Tennis programs.  These templates include flyers, posters, email, blasts, etc., as well as educational pieces for parents.
• 6Promote your youth tennis program at your facility such as at the pro shop, bulletin boards, email blasts, and in local publications.  You can also promote your program through the local schools and/or hold a festival/family day to allow kids and parents to sample 10 and Under Tennis.
• 7Plan out the clinic/program sessions ahead of time.  Ensure that included in the curriculum are additional play opportunities such as Play Days, Jr. Team Tennis leagues, etc.
• 8Include a parent orientation on the very first day so parents understand 10 and Under Tennis, and they are aware of the additional play opportunities.
• 9As your youth tennis program becomes more established, have a method of moving kids up and ensure that they are playing at the correct levels.