Tennis Pro

The tennis programming at Fairlawn Swim & Tennis is led by Kate Wenzlik. All tennis programs and lessons are for members only.

Kate Wenzlik, Tennis Pro

Youth Clinics

Beginner (perfect for ages 6-8)

Beginner youth tennis programs focus on introducing fundamental skills, court awareness, and basic point play in a fun and engaging environment. These programs typically emphasize learning to hit the forehand, backhand, and serve, with drills and games that gradually increase in complexity. The goal is to build a solid foundation of skills and to foster a love for the game.

Key aspects of beginner youth tennis programs:

• Focus on basics:Learning to grip the racquet, move on the court, and hit the forehand, backhand, and serve are central to the early stages.
• Gradual progression:As players develop, they are introduced to more advanced techniques like volleys, lob shots, and different types of spins.
• Emphasis on fun and play:Games and drills are designed to be engaging and enjoyable, encouraging participation and motivation.
• Court awareness and basic point play:Understanding the court layout, positioning during a rally, and basic point play strategies are gradually introduced.
• Social and emotional development:Playing tennis in a group setting fosters teamwork, sportsmanship, and confidence.

Common techniques and drills for beginners:

• Groundstrokes:Focus on hitting the forehand and backhand from a variety of locations on the court.
• Serve:Learning to grip the racquet and throw the ball correctly for a basic serve.
• Volleys:Practicing how to return shots from close to the net.
• Basic point play:Learning to hit the ball to the opponent’s backhand side or down the middle of the court.

Intermediate (perfect for ages 9-11)

An intermediate youth tennis player is generally described as having achieved a level of consistent stroke dependability, with improved directional control on moderate shots, but still lacking depth, variety, and the ability to alter shot distance. They’ve also started to exhibit more aggressive net play and have improved court coverage. They are typically comfortable with the fundamentals of the game, including proper strokes, footwork, and the ability to hit medium-paced shots with minimal errors.

Key Characteristics of an Intermediate Youth Tennis Player:

• Stroke Dependability:
  Can hit the ball consistently with their forehand, backhand, and serve.
• Directional Control:
  Can hit the ball with good placement and direction on moderate shots.
• Court Coverage:
  Demonstrates improved ability to cover the court effectively and chase down shots.
• Beginning Aggression:
  Shows an interest in approaching the net and exhibiting more aggressive play.
• Understanding of Fundamentals:
  Possesses a good understanding of the game’s fundamental principles.
• Minimal Errors:
  Can hit medium-paced shots with minimal errors.
• Beginnings of Variety:
  May start to introduce some variety in their shots and tactics.
• Court Awareness:
  Demonstrates an understanding of where to be positioned on the court to receive and return shots.
• Score Keeping:
  Understands and can accurately keep score during a match.
• Communication:
  Can clearly communicate when the ball is out or when there is a point to be called.

Advanced (perfect for ages 11 and up)

An advanced youth tennis player demonstrates a solid foundation of fundamental skills, including consistent strokes, good footwork, and effective court coverage. They also possess a strategic understanding of the game, can vary their pace and spins, and are able to adjust their game plan based on the opponent’s strengths and weaknesses. Advanced players are developing their athleticism, confidence, and technical skills, often through rigorous training and participation in tournaments.

Key Characteristics of an Advanced Youth Player:

• Consistent Strokes:

  They have a strong foundation in forehand, backhand, serve, and volley techniques.

   
• Good Footwork:

  They move efficiently around the court, allowing them to cover a wide area and reach the ball effectively.

   
• Effective Court Coverage:

  They can cover a wider range of the court, making it difficult for opponents to find openings.

   
• Strategic Game Plan:

  They understand how to vary their game based on the opponent’s strengths and weaknesses, and can implement a plan effectively.

   
• Power and Spin:

  They are able to vary their shots by using different spins and power levels, making it difficult for opponents to anticipate.

   
• Competitive Drive:

  They are committed to improving their game and often compete in USTA tournaments

• High Level of Intensity:

  They are expected to maintain a high level of intensity during training and matches

   
• Commitment to Practice:

  They are expected to practice regularly, often twice a week or more

• Mental Toughness:

  They are able to stay focused, composed, and resilient under pressure