Junior Programs & Classes

At Vancouver Tennis Center, we offer a variety of programs tailored for the long-term development of junior players. Our coaches are committed to growing the person, player, and athlete in a dynamic environment.

Our programs include athletic development activities with appropriate modern teaching techniques and equipment to lay the foundation for future success. In our programs, players will be challenged, develop a passion for the sport, and most importantly, have FUN!

If you have additional questions about which level is best for your child, email vtc@pnw.usta.com to schedule a 15-minute evaluation (*fees may apply). In your message please include your child’s name, age and prior experience.

Below is a list of current junior programs. For additional info, including class days, times, and instructors, and/or to register, click the “Register” link that corresponds with the class you’re interested in. You will be taken to our online portal.

Ages 5 and Under

Tots

An introduction to tennis for children as young as age four. We provide appropriate sized nets, racquets, and balls to help build confidence within the game. We’ll focus on teaching your tot the ABC’s of tennis (agility, balance, and coordination) while also fostering healthy mental, physical, and emotional growth. Tots will learn movement, balance, and coordination, and most importantly, they will have FUN!

TBD

Parents & Tots

Introduce your 3 or 4 year-old child to tennis in our Parents and Tots program! We’ll provide appropriately-sized racquets, balls and nets and focus on the ABC’s of tennis: agility, balance and coordination. Each parent will assist their child as the children develop listening and motor skills in a playful, fun and friendly environment. To register your child, simply click the link below - no need to register parent too.

TBD

Ages 10 and Under

Red Ball 1.0

For players ages 5-7 who are new to tennis. Red ball tennis is named after the red foam or felt balls that are used at this stage. Red tennis balls bounce lower and move more slowly through the air, giving beginning players a chance to set up and take a good swing at the ball. Courts at this level are 36' x 18', with a net that is 2'9" high. We’ll focus on developing of the ABC’s of tennis (agility, balance and coordination) while introducing proper technique that will enable these young players to rally.

Orange Ball 1.0

For players ages 8-10 with little or no experience. Once comfortable at the Red level, players graduate to playing at the Orange level. Orange felt balls bounce higher and move faster than the Red felt or foam balls but lower and slower than the Green ball. They are a step toward the traditional yellow tennis ball while still remaining fun and manageable for players learning the game. Players will continue to work on tennis fundamentals in addition to learning to hit with direction, height, and depth on a smaller court. We’ll focus on the fundamentals necessary to serve and rally using a game-based curriculum and continue to develop the athletic skills essential to the sport.

Homeschool Program

This all-new program (for ages 5-9) is designed for homeschooled children who need to fulfill their PE credit requirements. Every lesson will incorporate flexible coaching methods across all available ages, ensuring each member has a fun, engaging and memorable experience. Racquets, balls and nets will be provided for each lesson.

Ages 14 and Under

Green Ball 1.0

A progression from Orange Ball and an introductory program for players ages 11-13. Players will build athletic fundamentals by learning proper footwork and racquet mechanics. At this level, players will be able to use a full-sized court and a net that’s only slightly lower than Yellow Ball. We’ll focus on teaching the basics of rallying, serving, and keeping score.

Homeschool Program

This all-new program (for ages 10-13) is designed for homeschooled children who need to fulfill their PE credit requirements. Every lesson will incorporate flexible coaching methods across all available ages, ensuring each member has a fun, engaging and memorable experience. Racquets, balls and nets will be provided for each lesson.

Ages 18 and Under

High School 1.0

For high school players with little or no tennis experience. Players will learn the skills necessary to play on a high school team. Focus is on how to serve, rally, and keep score. This is a great opportunity for any teen interested in learning to play tennis.

Academy 1.0

For intermediate-level juniors who aspire to start playing tournaments and/or Junior Team Tennis. Players participating in this high-intensity program should be committed to working on speed and agility, mental toughness, and undergoing the rigors of a player development program. Academy 1.0 is by invitation only.

High School 2.0

For intermediate level high school players looking to advance their skills by additional play opportunities and more on-court experience. We’ll focus on doubles and singles positioning and tactics utilized in match play.

Academy 2.0

For advanced level juniors who play tournaments and/or are pursuing a ranking. Players participating in this high-intensity program should be committed to working on speed and agility, mental toughness, and undergoing the rigors of a player development program. Academy 2.0 is by invitation only.

High School 3.0

For advanced level high school players looking for additional play opportunities. This high-intensity program is ideal for high school varsity players competing in tournaments.

Academy 3.0

For advanced level juniors who are pursuing a ranking and want to reach the highest level of play possible. Players should possess the desire and commitment to undergo the rigors of a player development program. Players at this level are expected to play two tournaments a month. Academy 3.0 is by invitation only.

Adaptive Classes

Love Serving Autism

The Love Serving Autism classes teach children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities communication and life skills for functional independence on and off the courts. The participants engage in hand-eye coordination activities to improve motor coordination, stroke production drills to improve gross motor skills, and social interaction/word-of-the-day activities to improve communication and life skills. The lesson plans are progressive, with the participants continuing to learn new skills each week.

Blind and Low Vision Tennis

This program is for anyone 10 years or older with any visual impairment. Blind & Low Vision Tennis has just a few minor adaptations to regular tennis. We have an audible sound ball, a slightly smaller court and players are allowed 2 and 3 bounces instead of 1. Come and try this great recreation option. It’s social or competitive in a great welcoming environment.

Looking to compete? Click here for more play opportunities