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Tennis Australia is currently seeking Expressions of Interests from councils around the country who may be prepared to develop smaller, modified tennis courts to advance Tennis Hot Shots – Tennis Australia’s official childrens’ starter program.

Developed to allow children greater access to tennis, Tennis Hot Shots (THS) is currently delivered at 2,500 facilities across Australia and, between 2012 and 2013, 604,989 youngsters experienced the program at club and school coaching programs and events across the country.

The THS concept is centred around the use of modified, smaller courts that are designed to help children learn new tennis skills faster and more easily. Players use smaller racquets and low compression balls, making the game easier for them to play from the moment they pick up a racquet.

The modified nature of THS means children experience success earlier, therefore have an enjoyable experience, which increases the chances of keeping them in the sport and continuing to play.

The THS program was given more momentum when a landmark decision was made by the International Tennis Federation (ITF) in January 2012 to change the rules of tennis, whereby all 10-and-under competition must be played with a modified ball. In addition, the ITF recommends the use of modified courts.

Tennis Australia is now looking at ways in which people can access tennis in non-traditional environments, with public parks seen as ideal location in which to establish modified tennis THS courts.

Tennis Australia suggest a number of ways in which councils can provide THS courts in parks, from utilising small areas of surplus land within existing parks, to modifying older sports court, or integrating a THS court with existing facilities (such as half-court basketball).

While THS courts have recommended sizes, Tennis Australia suggest that they can be adjusted to make the best possible use of available land.

THS courts can also be made visually attractive for children, with bright and vibrant colours and the addition of exciting features including rebound walls with bull’s eyes, targets, ladders and logos.

THS courts can also be used as a multi-use areas, doubling up as a flat, slip resistant fitness, training or social area for other community groups.

Tennis Australia also suggest other reasons to include THS courts in parks:

• Provide additional health and active lifestyle opportunities for your community

• Create a safe environment for families to play tennis in

• Provide free and accessible sport infrastructure to all of the community

• Funding is available to assist with the development of THS courts

For more information on developing dedicated Tennis Hot Shots courts contact Adam Cheyne,  Places to Play Project Coordinator  at Tennis Australia on 03 9914 4090, E: acheyne@tennis.com.au.

More information of Tennis Hot Shots can be found by clicking here. 

10th April 2014 - GREATER TENNIS INVOLVEMENT THROUGH MLC TENNIS HOT SHOTS

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