Mini Tennis: ages 4-8

These classes introduce the student to tennis in a FUN way helping to develop balance, coordination, and concentration with tennis related games and contests.  Differentiation between forehands, backhands, and serves are covered.  All of this is done on a special mini-court with slower balls to enhance development.  Simple methods of starting a point (either throwing or serving), learning how to play points and keep score are covered.  Players who begin to show a level of ability in the sport will be “promoted” to the Bronze level.

 

DEVELOPMENTAL PROGRAM

Bronze Squad: ages 8 and up

This group is comprised of students that have graduated from our mini level or can sustain 10 ball rallies from the baseline area.  Proper form on a full follow through and weight transfer are emphasized to develop strength to play the entire court.  Simple point construction is introduced into match play as well as doubles positioning.

Silver Squad: ages 9 and up

Players in this class are slightly stronger or more mature than the Bronze squad.  Increased court coverage for better defense is expected.  The drills are more physically demanding requiring better balance, speed and coordinated use of legs, hips and shoulders.  Match tactics are slightly more aggressive with emphasis on mid court balls and volleys.

Gold/Platinum Squad: ages 11 and up

Players in this group demonstrate consistent and accurate groundstrokes that produce opportunities to go on offense.  Increased racquet head speed on forehand, backhand, and serve are introduced as a means to create winning point patterns.  Efficient, compact strokes are emphasized to counter harder balls.  Mental/emotional routines for match play are discussed as these players are currently playing tournaments or will be playing for their High School teams.

 

PERFORMANCE PROGRAMS

3.5 – 4.0 Level: State Performance Squad

These players have some tournament experience and may be ranked in the State in their age division.  Strenuous drills are used to strengthen court coverage, consistency at higher ball speeds, and develop more of an all court game.  An evaluation of a player’s overall game is done in the areas of stroke production, tactical ability to adjust to certain kinds of opponents, mental skills/qualities, and tennis specific fitness.  Each player will be given this evaluation by the 2nd session, and a plan/goals for improvement are set.  This “road map” will act as the basis for the lesson plan during the session.

4.5 Level: National Performance Squad

Players in this group are ranked in the Mid Atlantic section.  Player and coach expectations are high; only the more dedicated and determined players will be accepted.  A thorough player evaluation will be conducted in technical, mental, and physical skills.  However, a premium is placed on the physical skills.  However, a premium is placed on the physical development of the player in this group.  The “modern game: is all about speed, agility, balance, power, and flexibility.  Each session will have 1 ½ hours on the court followed by a 45-minute physical component.  Players will have an individualized workout program created for them by our strength/agility coach.  They are required to follow the routine 3 days a week.  Concentration techniques, proper preparation and recovery for matches, and actively setting match goals are covered.

Homeschool Program

Tennis programs for Homeschooled children are available.  Please call Jon Prenelle for details.