BLUE STAGE
AGE 3-5 years
The Blue Stage introduces children to tennis through fundamental motor skill development, such as throwing, catching, games and fun activities. Children learn the basics of tennis including how to rally using lots of adapted equipment such as balloons, big balls and beanbags.
Court size: variable
Tennis ball: red ball (25% compression)
Recommended racquet size: 19-21 inches
AGE 5-8 years
RED STAGE
The red ball is larger than a yellow ball and doesn’t bounce as high (just 25% compression), making it a breeze for even the youngest players to hit comfortably. The courts and nets used in the Red stage are much smaller making it easier for kids to move around and enjoy success. Red level players may be beginners, improvers or even advanced players.
Court size: 3 m × 8.23 or 6 m × 10.97 m
Tennis ball: red ball (25% compression)
Recommended racquet size: 21–23 inches
ORANGE STAGE
AGE 8-10 years
Children at this particular stage now learn to play tennis on a ¾ court. This level of player draw on what they have learnt in the Red stage and extended their knowledge through exploring more detailed technique elements (spins and different variations), tactical elements, such as learning when to attack and defend during a point situation.
Court size: 6.4 m × 18.29 m
Tennis ball: orange ball (50% compression)
Recommended racquet size: 23–25 inches
GREEN STAGE
AGE 9+ years
The ball used in the Green stage has a higher compression than the Red and Orange stages (75% of a yellow tennis ball) and children progress to play on a full-size court. Green players may be older children who are new to tennis or players of a good standard who have progressed through the Blue, Red and Orange stages.
Court size: 10.97 m × 23.78 m (full court)
Tennis ball: green ball (75% compression)
Recommended racquet size: 25–27 inches
