The Ball is Key
Using the right ball with the starter player is crucial. A number of slower balls are available which make the game easier. By using these balls the starter players have more time and more control. This makes the game more fun for them at the introductory stage.
The ITF Task Force recommends the red, orange, green progression for starter players. This progression focuses on a range of slower balls and court sizes to introduce the game effectively to both adults and children.
If starter players cannot serve, rally and score with a normal ball on a full sized court then it is strongly recommended that coaches use one of the red, orange or green balls on the appropriate sized court to help them learn the game more easily.
STAGE 3 RED BALL
Ideal for Mini Tennis.
• Sponge and low compression balls used on a 11m (36ft) court
• Recommended racket size: 41-48cm (16-19in)
• Starter children aged 5 to 8 and adult introduction
STAGE 2 ORANGE BALL
50% slower and ideal for starter players of all ages.
• Low compression balls for starter players of all ages, used on an 18m (60ft) court
• Recommended racket size: 53-63cm (21-25in)
• Starter adults and children aged 7-11
STAGE 1 GREEN BALL
25% slower and ideal for an introduction to the full court.
• Low compression balls for starter players of all ages, used on a full sized court
• Recommended racket size: 63-68cm (25-27in)
• Starter adults and children aged 8-15
If you are unable to source ITF approved, slower balls from a distributor in your region, you can access them from the ITF here