What is Mini Tennis?
Mini Tennis is fun and easy to play and a great way to make lots of new friends. It was launched by the LTA in 2001.
Anybody, any age, and any ability, can play Mini Tennis, although it is aimed at introducing children to the game and developing skills. Mini Tennis is ideal for children aged 4-10 years.
Mini Tennis is an exciting introduction to tennis, and allows young or inexperienced players to learn the skills and tactics of tennis and actually play the game.
Tell me more!
Each stage of Mini Tennis has specifically designed rackets and balls to suit the size and ability of the child. Adult rackets and balls are not suitable. Shorter rackets and low bouncing balls allow children to get maximum enjoyment out of the game. It is strongly recommended that appropriate rackets and balls are used at each stage of Mini Tennis (including play outside of sessions).
There is a whole range of skills that children need to play sport. Consequently Mini Tennis lessons will include learning about running, jumping, balance, co-ordination, throwing and catching, as well as learning more formal tennis skills. The better the child is at these skills, the better tennis players they will become in the long run.
The Mini Tennis concept involves three colour-coded stages in the sequence of traffic lights that chart children's progress in tennis:
Mini Tennis Red
Played on small courts with short rackets and soft red balls, Mini Tennis Red is just like tennis and loads of fun! The scoring system features shorter games and tie-breaks.
Mini Tennis Orange
Designed for improving skills on a bigger court, the orange ball is a little quicker but still great for long rallies.
Mini Tennis Green
For bigger and stronger players who have learned the strokes and are ready for a fater green ball and a full size court.
Playing Mini Tennis outside of lessons?
This is hugely encouraged! The park, playground, a wall, or the back garden are all excellent learning environments. Jenny can give guidance on practises to do at home.
It’s best to use appropriate rackets and balls wherever possible – children will definitely struggle with full sized rackets and regular balls. By playing with the suitable rackets and balls you will have more fun!