Mini Tennis

What is Mini Tennis?

Mini Tennis is the game of tennis modified for younger or inexperienced players, in which all the skills and tactics of the real game can be developed. It is divided into 3 distinct stages colour coded in the sequence of traffic lights – RED, ORANGE, GREEN. Starting with RED, children play on small courts with rackets and sponge balls. As they progress the court size, racket length, the speed of the ball, height of the bounce and the length of a game or match will increase until they reach the full size game.

Player & Parent Guide to Mini Tennis:

Mini Tennis Red (Players 8 & Under)

• Recommended for beginners to the game
• Court size 12m long by 6m wide (the width of a full court plays the length of mini red court)
• Racket size maximum 23”
• Ball sponge ball/large mini red low compression ball
• Scoring “tie-break” scoring

Mini Tennis Orange (Players 9 & Under)

• Recommended for older beginners to the game and younger children gaining confidence
• Court size 18m long (3m short of baseline) width as tennis court
• Racket size maximum 25”
• Ball low compression ball
• Scoring “tie-break” scoring

Mini tennis green (Players 10 & Under)

• Recommended for children who are nearly ready for the full court game.
• Court size full tennis court
• Racket size maximum 26”
• Ball mid ball/pre tennis ball
• Scoring “tie-break” scoring

Toddler Tennis

Toddler Tennis is also available for junior members aged between 2-4.

• Recommended for children of the above ages who are new to the game
• No court recommendation - encourage co-ordination skills and the use of props
• Racket size maximum 21"
• Ball sponge ball

How parents can help their child to enjoy playing Mini Tennis

• The emphasis is on fun and enjoyment and developing a love of the game.
• Preparation is essential, Appropriate tennis footwear, comfortable sports clothing, lots of drinks and sensible snacks are all important in maintaining a “happy player”.
• Players should be encouraged to give 100% effort. Not every match will result in a win. Pride in a good performance is as important as a win. Praise your child for their efforts.
• Acquaint yourself with the scoring/tournament format so that you can help events run smoothly.
  N.B. you will never be asked to score you own child’s match.
• Encourage good behaviour and fair play and respect for other competitors and officials.
  

We offer holiday camps during the summer holidays, February and October half terms breaks, and during Easter and Christmas. Please see our upcoming events. Tennis is an enjoyable sport and children love to play it. The earlier they start, the more confident they become, and ultimately the more they will benefit. Join us today to see what PRF Tennis can do for you and your child.