Tennis 10s is a program developed by the International Tennis Federation (ITF) as part of the Play and Stay initiative, designed specifically for children aged 10 and under. The goal of Tennis 10s is to introduce young players to tennis in a fun, engaging, and age-appropriate way, using modified equipment and court sizes that match their physical development and skill level. The program is structured into three progressive stages: Red, Orange, and Green.
Key Features of Tennis 10s:
- Progressive Stages: Tennis 10s follows a structured pathway, starting with the Red Stage (small courts and slow balls) for beginners, followed by the Orange Stage (intermediate court and ball speed), and concluding with the Green Stage (full-sized court with slightly softer balls). Each stage is designed to gradually introduce children to the full game of tennis while ensuring they develop skills at a comfortable pace.
- Modified Equipment: The program uses slower, lower-bouncing balls (red, orange, and green balls) that make it easier for children to hit, control, and rally. Smaller racquets and courts are also used, helping young players manage the game more effectively and develop proper technique.
Court Sizes:
- Red Stage: 36 feet x 18 feet (small court)
- Orange Stage: 60 feet x 21 feet (or 27 feet for doubles)
- Green Stage: Full-sized court (78 feet x 27 feet for singles)
- Focus on Fun and Learning: Tennis 10s is designed to make learning tennis enjoyable, with an emphasis on building confidence, improving hand-eye coordination, and encouraging social interaction. Competitive play is introduced gradually to ensure players remain engaged and motivated without feeling overwhelmed.
- Developmental Benefits: Tennis 10s helps children develop not just tennis skills, but also general motor skills, agility, balance, and coordination, which are crucial for all sports. It also encourages problem-solving and decision-making through match play.
Tennis 10s provides a comprehensive, age-appropriate introduction to tennis, ensuring that children enjoy the game while steadily building the foundational skills needed to progress into full-court tennis as they grow and develop.