We are here to help get you started with guidance on selecting appropriate equipment, understanding the basics of tennis, and guidance for how your child can learn more of the skills needed to grow in the game.
Junior Raquets & Balls
Playing with the appropriate racquet and ball type allows players to achieve greater physical activity and feel successful at tennis right from the start.
Junior Racquets
Tennis racquets come in all sizes ranging from 19″ to 26″ for players as young as toddlers on up. Below are some recommended sizes for various ages:
- Ages 3 – 5: 19 – 20″
- Ages 6 – 8: 21 – 23″
- Ages 9 – 10: 24 – 25″
- Ages 11+: 26+”
Tennis Balls
Varied compression tennis balls for various level of bounce and are great for players to start and develop over time. The types of balls are:
- Red Foam – These are larger and great for ages 3-5
- Red – These are felt balls with low compression and are perfect for use on 36′ foot courts
- Orange – These have slightly more compression than red balls and are great for use on 60′ courts
- Green Dot – These have more compression than orange balls and can be used on full-sized 78′ courts
Court Sizes For Juniors
With smaller courts, shorter racquets, and lower bouncing balls, youth players will achieve greater physical activity and feel successful at tennis right from the start. Typical court sizes are:
- 36′ X 18′ – Great for play with a Red Ball
- 60′ X 21′ OR 60′ X 27′ (Doubles) – Great for play with an Orange Ball
- 78′ X 27′ OR 78′ X 36′ (Doubles) – A traditional sized court and great for play with a Green or Yellow Ball
The Basics Of Tennis
Confused by tennis terminology, court layout, how the game is played, and more? Check out some help below!
Tennis Scoring
Tennis matches are organized into games and sets to win the match. Below we provide you with the scoring basics and terminology.
Basic Tennis Scoring
Depending upon skill level and program, tennis matches are scored using traditional (Love, 15, 30, 40, Game) and simplified scoring
(1, 2, 3, 4, Game).
- GAME – Consists of 4 points. The player typically must win by
2 points - SET – Consists of a certain number of GAMES won
- MATCH – Consists of a certain number of SETS won
SCORING TERMS
- LOVE – A score of 0 (zero) in traditional tennis scoring
- ACE – A serve that lands in the service box and is untouched by the opponent
- DEUCE – A game that is tied at 40 – 40 or 4 – 4
- ADVANTAGE – Player who wins the next point after DEUCE is said to have the ADVANTAGE
- NO-AD – Player doesn’t have to lead by 2 points to win a game
Beginner Programs
There are beginner programs for juniors of all ages throughout Florida. It’s never too late to start your tennis journey!
Play Anywhere
You can set up a court just about anywhere – in a driveway, a basketball court, or a park. Either use a portable mini-net or tie caution tape or rope between 2 chairs. Have fun just hitting the ball back and forth or set up lines with chalk.
Fun Drills & Games
From Bump Ups to Tap Downs to Toss Hit Catch to The Weave and more, these fun drills and games will help you improve your game!
