Step-by-step: How to help your child start competing in tennis
1. Talk to the child's coach
The first and most important step is to talk to the child's coach. The coach can advise when the child is ready to start competing and which competition format is best suited. Since we have different responsible coaches depending on which ball level the child is playing with (red, orange, green, or yellow), it is best to turn to the coach who is responsible for your child's level.
2. Explore the Little Club Tour – a great start
The Little Club Tour is a series of competitions designed for children between the ages of 6 and 12, where the focus is on joy of play and experience rather than results. The competitions are divided by skill level:
Red ball: 6–8 years
Orange ball: 7–9 years
Green ball: 9–11 years
These competitions are often played in a pool format, which means that all participants get to play multiple matches. This format is recommended by several clubs around the country to provide children with a positive first competition experience.
3. Obtain a competition license
To participate in official competitions, the child needs a competition license. For children up to 12 years old, this license is free of charge. The license is registered through the Swedish Tennis Federation's website www.tennis.se.
4. Sign up for appropriate competitions
Once the license is registered, you can search for suitable competitions on the same platform. It is important to choose a competition that matches the child's age and skill level in football. Feel free to consult the coach if you are unsure which competition is the best fit.
5. Prepare together
Before the competition, it is good to go through what will happen:
How the matches are played
How the scoring works
What is expected of the player
This helps the child feel safe and prepared for their first competition.
6. Join and support
Having a parent or another family member present can be very supportive for the child. Remember to encourage and focus on the child's effort and joy in the game rather than the outcome.
7. Reflect after the competition
After the competition, it is valuable to talk to the child about the experience:
What went well?
What was fun?
What can we think about for next time?
This reflection helps the child to develop and look forward to future competitions.
Starting to compete should be a positive and educational experience for the child. With the right support and preparation, competitions can become an enjoyable part of the child's tennis development.