A smarter path from beginner to league player
Adult Learn to Play is our new beginner tennis program built around a structured ball progression — the same methodology endorsed by the USTA for adult new-to-the-game programs. Instead of placing every beginner on a standard yellow ball from day one, we move you through a progression of orange, green, and yellow balls as your skills develop. Each stage of the progression focuses on specific skills and targets a defined NTRP range, so every session feels achievable and every class builds directly on the last. Complete the full progression and you'll be ready for beginner league play and an active place in our tennis community.
the science behind the method
Adult learners process new motor skills differently than children. Starting on full-speed yellow balls often overwhelms the nervous system before proper mechanics are established — leading to compensations, bad habits, and frustration. A ball progression removes that overload, giving your brain the time it needs to groove correct movement patterns from the start. The USTA and International Tennis Federation both endorse progressive ball methodology for adult programs. It's not a shortcut — it's the most effective path to long-term player development.
three stages - one continuous path
-
absolute beginners to 2.0 | orange ball
Orange balls bounce lower and move slower than standard yellow balls, giving you more time to set up and make clean contact. In the first stage of the progression, you'll develop proper grip, footwork, and swing mechanics — and start rallying comfortably from your very first session. This is where the foundation gets built right.
-
NTRP 2.0 to 2.5 | green ball
The second stage of the progression closes the gap to the full yellow ball game — a bit more pace, a bit more bounce, and a bigger tactical challenge. Here you'll extend rallies with purpose, develop court awareness and shot selection, and build the consistency needed to compete in points. This is where the game really starts to open up.
-
NTRP 2.25 to 2.5 | yellow ball
Standard yellow balls. Full court. Match play. The final stage of the progression introduces match formats, scoring, and game-situation training. By this point you have the technique and tactical foundation to handle the full game — and you've built it the right way. League play is the natural next step.
upcoming sessions
Orange Ball | June 9 - July 14 | 11:00 am - 12:30 pm | $150
Orange Ball | June 9 - July 14 | 7:00 - 8:30 pm | $150
Green Ball | Starting soon
Yellow Ball | Starting soon
If you have experience and are interested in starting a Green Ball class before our Orange Ball completes, contact Bynum Matthews.
ready to start the progression?
You can register here, on The Athletic Clubs app under Programs > Tennis or call the Club.
Spots in each session are limited to ensure personalized attention from your instructor. Register early to secure your preferred time slot.
