As their father and tennis coach, one of my biggest regrets is that I hesitated to enroll my two daughters in competitions until their technique was decent. I should have done that a lot earlier.
Watch the video below to find out why this might be a common mistake and how to avoid it for your own kids:
Cosmin Miholca
Certified Tennis Coach
Check out my work at WebTennis24 where I share with you my best video tennis lessons, drills and tips for players, coaches and tennis parents.
Hi Cosmin – ggod advice.
As a coach myself I find the most challenging progression for kids is actual rallying regardless of our their technique. I find that if kids are learning regimented shots, they delay the development of the actual movements and decision making needed to track a ball and then send it back over the net..which of course is tennis in a nutshell.
I`ve started taking them out of their comfort zone and now find that the kids who move and balance best will prevail over more static better techniqued players. After all thats the basic rules of tennis..do you agree?
Of course learning to cope with the disappointment of losing is a completely differnt ball game which is where we as coaches can help to take off the pressure of winning/losing but the emphasis on competing and enjoyment..
You may wish to comment on my comment? Regards to you. Nick
Hi Nick, indeed I agree; over-emphasising the technique makes the coach “look good” which unfortunately is one of the principal goals at some tennis clubs. In the European tennis they work/move their students a lot and put them into lots of tournaments. Having fun here in Europe is not so much accentuated as it is in the US (I used to coach for 9 years in southern California). European coaches, parents and players are all about winning and competing. Technique is developed while working on tactics and variety in strokes comes with the need to get their opponents out of their comfort zone during matches. It is amazing to see the hunger and creativity these kids develop through competitions…
Where can you find such play date or tournament for a little kid who just learn how to play? I checked out USTA and found the junior matches are for kids around 10-12. Should the kid join some club to get into the group?
Hi Ying, your child does not have to join any club in order to enter tennis competitions. For beginning players look out for pre-satellite tournaments or quickstart competitions for kids under 10. I am sure if you contact your local club (even if you are not a member) they can give you more information. But rest assured that there are plenty of competitions for kids 10 and under (at any level).
Thanks a lot. Another question:
I have a lot dead green tennis balls originally planned for my drill. Can I use those to train my 6-year-old? I’m using red dot balls now.
I wouldn’t if you work with your child on technique… The dead balls have an unpredictable bounce which can be frustrating for someone who needs to focus on consistent swing. If you plan de develop quick reflexes, yes.
I would suggest to use balls appropriate kids’ levels and age.