At what age can tennis players begin playing tennis ?

Players in AATS programs can start as early as 4 years old. However, to make things more enjoyable for the player in question, we ask parents to make sure players are beginning to follow directions and can be away from parents for the 30 minute classes. It is most beneficial to players when they can follow the coaches without help from parents.

I love tennis and would like to have my child learn how to play, too. How should I urge them to start ?

Tennis is a great game for life as once you learn; you can play and have fun at many different levels from beginner to advanced. It is our suggestion that parents sign up players when they show an interest in the game. Many children are more receptive to sports in generalwhen they are the ones to show interest in trying the game. It's not a bad idea to expose them to the game first and see if it catches their interest. Players have more fun and learn more when they are more involved with the process themselves.

I'm an adult and a total beginner to tennis? What are my options for indoor tennis ?

AATS typically offers clinics for adults of different skill levels, on public courts during the outdoor season. The schedule of opportunities is listed under the Adult Programming listingof this website. Information about indoor programs can be obtained from private indoor tennis facilities. Of note is our policy that if we do not receive enough registrations (usually 6 people), we will cancel the class and either reschedule or issue a refund.

I’m a 75 year old senior adult. Why should I attend instructional clinics ? I’m too old to learn.

You are not too old to learn. Not at all! Three persons aged 83, 85, and 94 have participated in AATS instructional clinics in the recent past. Instructions for senior adults are modified to take into account the changed foot speed, reaction time, and strength typical of the age groups. Many have learned that improved techniques, and strategies, can make the game more enjoyable.

I can't find an adult program that fits my needs, what can I do ?

In the "Contact" tab, email John Garrett and explain what your are looking for. We can build custom program for you and your friends. Private lessons are also available.

What is my playing level?

General Characteristics of USTA NTRP Playing Levels

1.0 Player is just starting to play tennis.



1.5 Player has limited experience and is working primarily on getting the ball in play.



2.0 Player lacks court experience and his/her strokes need developing. Player is familiar with the basic positions for singles and doubles play.



2.5 Player is learning to judge where the ball is going, although court coverage is limited. Player can sustain a short rally of slow pace with other players of the same ability.



3.0 Player is fairly consistent when hitting medium-paced shots but is not comfortable with all strokes and lacks execution when trying for directional control, depth or power. The most common doubles formation is one-up, one-back.



3.5 Player has achieved improved stroke dependability with directional control on moderate shots, but needs to develop depth and variety. Player exhibits more aggressive net play, improved court coverage and is developing teamwork in doubles.



4.0 Player has dependable strokes, including directional control and depth on both forehand and backhand sides on moderate-paced shots. Player can use lobs, overheads, approach shots and volleys with some success and occasionally forces errors when serving. Rallies may be lost due to impatience. Teamwork in doubles is evident.



4.5 Player has developed use of power and spin and can handle pace. Player has sound footwork, can control depth of shots and attempts to vary his/her game plan according to the opponent. Player can hit first serves with power and accuracy and place the second serve. Player tends to over-hit on difficult shots. Aggressive net play is common in doubles.

​

5.0 Player has good shot anticipation and frequently has an outstanding shot or attribute around which a game may be structured. Player can regularly hit winners or force errors off short balls and can put away volleys. Player can successfully execute lobs, drop shots, half volleys and overhead smashes, and has good depth and spin on most second serves.

Do I need a PayPal account to use PayPal?

No. You can pay with your credit/debit card (Visa, MasterCard, American Express, and Discover) - all without having a PayPal account.

What do I see when I check out?

You go through a 3-step process to pay for a purchase:

1. Click the payment button next to the selected items

2. If you have a PayPal account, log into PayPal. 

3. If you don’t have a PayPal account, enter all requested payment information on a web page protected by PayPal

Review and complete your purchase on PayPal

How do I register for AATS course with Anne Arundel County Recreation and Parks?

1.  Go to the web site of the Anne Arundel County Department of Recreation and Parks Agency at www.aacounty.org/recparks. Standard registration opens on Feb. 12, 2020.

2.  Select Register Online.

3.  Select Program.

4.  Search for Tennis in Activities.

5.  Select the tennis session desired and follow instructions to pay online.