Red Ball Team Tennis is energising the tennis community across Western Australia by reimagining the way we introduce the sport to young children.
Specifically designed for kids aged 5 to 8, this exciting initiative goes beyond traditional coaching by creating a play-based, team-focused environment that helps children fall in love with tennis from their very first rally.
What is Red Ball Team Tennis?
Building on the foundations of the national Hot Shots program, Red Ball Team Tennis brings a social and competitive edge to the Red Stage of development. While Hot Shots focuses on skill-building in a developmentally appropriate setting, this program complements that structure by introducing team competition, club representation, and a sense of belonging to our youngest tennis stars.
In Red Ball Team Tennis, kids don’t just learn — they join a team, play the game, and represent their club.
Key Features of the Program
- Play-Based Learning
Children learn through fun and interactive gameplay, developing their tennis skills while enjoying every moment on court.
- Modified Equipment
Using age-appropriate racquets, low-compression red balls, and smaller courts, the program ensures all players can participate with confidence.
- Mixed Teams
Inclusivity is at the heart of the program — with children of all genders, backgrounds, and experience levels playing together in a welcoming team format.
- Focus on Participation
The goal is simple: ensure every child is actively involved and finishes the session with a smile.
- Club Pride
For many, this is their first opportunity to represent a club, helping build early connections and pride in their local tennis community.
Term 1 Pilot: A Smash Hit
The Term 1 pilot program brought the Red Ball Team Tennis concept to life across four Friday evenings, with sessions hosted at:
- Applecross Tennis Club
- Blue Gum Tennis Club
- Manning Tennis Club
- South Perth Tennis Club
In partnership with coaching providers Break Point, Tennis Academy Perth, and Tennis Excellence, the pilot engaged 40 young participants (10 per team/club) and a host of enthusiastic parent and volunteer team managers, replicating the spirit of grassroots team sports like soccer or AFL.
Adding to the fun, each session coincided with the clubs’ Junior afternoons, transforming the event into a social highlight with music, food, and community spirit. Players were encouraged to stay post-play, with food provided by host venues and access granted via a special Red Ball Team Tennis lanyard and cap — just like the pros!
The Response? Overwhelmingly Positive
From coaches to parents, clubs to kids — the feedback has been fantastic. Participants loved the team format, the chance to represent their club, and the overall energy of each event. Parents praised the structure, camaraderie, and the chance to see their kids truly engage with the sport.
As we look ahead, Red Ball Team Tennis promises to become a cornerstone of early-stage tennis development in WA — helping coaching businesses grow, clubs thrive, and, most importantly, giving kids a reason to keep coming back.
🎥 Check out the action in our Red Ball Team Tennis video and see why this program is getting young players excited to play, stay, and belong! CLICK HERE
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