The Green Stage is the third and final level of the ITF Play and Stay pathway, designed for young players typically aged 9-10 who are preparing to transition to full-court tennis. At this stage, players use a full-sized tennis court but still benefit from slightly modified equipment to aid their development.
Key Features of the Green Stage:
- Court Size: Players move up to a full-sized tennis court, which measures 78 feet long and 27 feet wide for singles (36 feet for doubles). This is the standard court size used in professional and recreational adult tennis.
- Green Balls: The balls used in the Green Stage are slightly softer than standard balls, with 25% less compression. These balls travel faster than the orange balls but still provide more control than regular balls, allowing players to adjust to the full court while continuing to develop their skills.
- Racquets: Players typically use larger racquets, generally between 25-27 inches in length, which are closer to adult-sized racquets. This prepares them for handling standard equipment in future stages of their tennis journey.
- Skill Development: At the Green Stage, players refine their technical and tactical abilities. Focus is placed on developing more consistent strokes, learning point construction, and understanding game strategy. The stage introduces more advanced competitive play, encouraging players to think strategically and manage rallies effectively.
- Scoring: The Green Stage typically uses standard scoring, preparing players for regular match play at the junior or recreational level.
The Green Stage marks the transition from modified equipment and courts to the full version of the game. It ensures that players are physically and technically ready for full-court tennis while still providing a supportive and progressive environment for learning.
