Pathway to PLAY
Foundations I (Beginner)
Foundations I is a six-week, entry-level instructional class designed to introduce beginners (ages 5-17) to the fundamentals of tennis. Players will use modified courts, racquets, and low-compression balls as needed to build essential skills in a supportive and fun environment.
Players will learn how to:
Develop hand-eye coordination and basic ball control.
Hit the ball to specific targets with accuracy.
Move with balance and stop efficiently on the court.
Work with a partner to practice send/receive skills.
This class provides a solid foundation for future tennis development through engaging drills and activities tailored to beginners. Participants will be evaluated and must demonstrate mastery of the requisite skills before advancing to Foundations II.
Foundations II (Intermediate)
Foundations II is a six-week program designed for youth players (ages 5-17) who have developed basic tennis skills and are ready to advance their abilities through more focused instruction and practice. Players use a modified court with age-appropriate racquets and low-compression balls as needed, providing better control and an optimal learning environment. The class emphasizes stroke development, movement, and match-play strategy.
Players will learn how to:
Execute consistent forehand and backhand strokes, both in self-rallies and with partners.
Improve court positioning, movement, and agility for better shot execution.
Build foundational serving skills and learn the basics of serving techniques.
Develop rallying skills by targeting specific areas and maintaining continuous play.
Improve their tactical and technical skills.
This class is designed to enhance players' skills while introducing them to the fundamentals of match play. scoring, and strategy. In addition to the regular program, participants also have the option to engage in match play weekly, allowing them to begin developing their on-court skills as well as their USTA ranking.
Foundations II with Match Play
This version of Foundations II offers the same comprehensive curriculum and expectations but meets twice weekly to include match-play opportunities. Designed to help members sharpen their skills and apply them in a competitive setting, this program emphasizes growth in strategy, decision-making, and confidence on the court. Participants will have the chance to engage in match play, develop their game in real-time scenarios, and experience the camaraderie and excitement of competitive tennis—all in a supportive and inclusive environment.
Benefits of Match-Play
Practice game tactics and decision-making in real-time scenarios.
Enhance consistency, accuracy, and performance under match conditions.
Gain experience and self-assurance in a supportive competitive environment.
Youth FAQs
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We offer a range of programs designed to meet players at every stage of their tennis journey:
Foundations I: For beginners, focusing on basic skills and fundamentals.
Foundations II: For players with some experience, emphasizing stroke development, movement, and match-play strategy.
Foundations II with Match Play: Includes all Foundations II curriculum, plus weekly match play to enhance competitive skills.
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Our youth programs cater to players aged 5–17. Specific age groups and skill levels may vary by program, ensuring an optimal learning environment for all participants.
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Absolutely! Our Foundations I program is designed for beginners, teaching the basics in a fun and supportive environment.
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Our team can assess your child’s skill level. Feel free to contact us to discuss which program best suits your child's needs.
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You can register online through our website or contact us directly for assistance. Spaces fill quickly, so early registration is encouraged! We will be announcing Spring 2025 programs in February!
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Classes combine skill-building drills, practice games, and fun activities to keep players engaged. Depending on the program, players will also participate in rally-based activities and match play to develop tactical and competitive skills.
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Class frequency depends on the program:
Foundations I and Foundations II: Typically meet once per week for six weeks,
Foundations II with Match Play: Meets twice per week for six weeks, including a dedicated match-play session weekly.
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Of course! Grown-ups are welcome to observe classes from the designated viewing areas. We encourage you to be supportive from the sidelines but ask that you do not interfere with the coaching process.
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We keep class sizes small to ensure individualized attention and maximize learning, typically 6–8 players per coach, depending on the program.
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We recommend players bring a tennis racquet, water bottle, and appropriate athletic attire, including non-marking tennis shoes. We will provide racquets if needed.
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We use pressurized tennis balls in our clinics because they provide a more realistic playing experience, helping players develop the control, consistency, and power needed for match play. These balls react similarly to tournament-grade balls, improving timing, stroke mechanics, and overall skill. Practicing with them prepares players for higher levels of play and ensures a smoother transition to competitive tennis.
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Each class has a set list of skills that are taught and mastered during the program. Coaches and program managers will check in with families regularly to provide updates on your child's progress. Additionally, you will receive a progress report midway through the program and another at the end, outlining your child’s development and areas of focus moving forward. This ensures open communication and helps you stay informed about their learning journey.
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No, participants must demonstrate mastery of the prerequisite skills needed for the next course before moving on. If a child has not yet mastered the required skills, they are welcome to repeat their current program to continue building a strong foundation (unless they age out of the level). Our coaches provide ongoing feedback to help guide this process and ensure each player is ready for the next level.
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Yes! Programs like Foundations II with Match Play and our match-play events introduce players to scoring, strategy, and competitive play in a supportive environment.
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If your child has mastered the basic skills and is eager to compete, they may be ready for tournaments. We assess each player’s skill level and readiness and can provide recommendations for the right events based on their experience and development.
To get started with tennis tournaments, we recommend looking into local tournament organizations such as USTA. They offer a variety of tournaments for different skill levels, from beginner to advanced. You can find detailed information on upcoming tournaments, registration details, and requirements on their websites.