About Us

Our Mission

The Schoolyard Tennis Academy, established in 2011, brings fun, professional tennis programs to local elementary schools and neighborhood parks. Using the United States Tennis Association’s (USTA) QuickStart method, we teach children the fundamental techniques of tennis in a way that allows them to see rapid improvement while having fun.

Our certified tennis coaches bring portable mini-nets, low-compression balls, court lines, and junior racquets to elementary schools. Our equipment is optimal for children in the following ways:

  • Low-compression balls bounce lower and move more slowly
  • Smaller courts, so children can cover them more easily
  • Smaller racquets, so children can control their swings

This QuickStart method has proven to be a huge success with our programs—whereas it might take a young beginner several months of lessons before he or she can rally over the net with regular balls, low compression balls allow many children to rally within the first week of practice. Seeing quick success instills confidence in young players, which encourages them to continue in the sport, achieve self-discipline, and stay active.

Through our programs, your child is guaranteed to learn tennis in a way that is fun, interactive, and successful!

The QuickStart Method

USTA QuickStart tennis, also known as 10 And Under Tennis, uses three different levels based on age and ability for children aged 10 and younger. Each level is characterized by a specific type of ball and court size.

At earlier levels, larger and/or lower-compression balls move slower and don’t bounce as high as regular balls, while smaller courts and miniature nets are easier for children to cover, allowing them to carry extended rallies early on in their training. The result for children is more fun, yieding increased confidence and a motivation to advance their skills.

 

QuickStart Levels

The first level is RED, ideal for kids aged 3 to 6, which uses the largest, lowest-compression balls, as well as miniature nets and 36-foot courts. At this level, kids begin with hand-eye coordination and basic strokes, followed by footwork and eventually rallies.

The second level is ORANGE, ideal for kids aged 6 to 9. The balls are smaller, higher in compression, and slightly faster than red balls, and the courts are 60 feet in length. At this level, the focus includes serving, strategy, and extended rallies.

The third level is GREEN, ideal for kids aged 9 to 11, which utilizes “green dot” balls (faster, higher compression) and full-sized 78-foot courts. Students at this level will eventually graduate with a solid foundation in all the fundamental skills of tennis.

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