Many young students aspire to play high school tennis, which is also one of the most rewarding experiences for a teen athlete.
While it is true that many elite junior tennis players avoid trying out for their school varsity teams, many players have gone on to play professionally after playing in high school. These players suggest that it is not impossible to obtain a high USTA ranking, receive a college scholarship, and even play professionally after playing high school tennis.
While tennis high school competition may not be as prestigious, many schools operate no-cut programs. This allows all players who try out for the team to play. In addition, playing high school tennis can help junior players further develop their skills and improve their game.
Therefore, while it is understandable why some junior players choose not to try out for their school team, there are many benefits to playing high school tennis. Let us walk you through the high school athletics’ ins and outs, including tryouts, matches, and season expectations.
The Advantages of High School Tennis
There are many advantages to playing tennis in high school. In addition to the physical benefits of exercise, tennis can help teenagers develop important life skills. For example, tennis requires strategic thinking, goal-setting, and pure discipline. Players must also learn to deal with stress and interact with people of different personalities.
As a result, playing tennis in high school can help teenagers perform better academically, develop leadership skills, and lower their risk for various diseases and conditions. So if you’re looking for a way to improve your child’s physical and mental health, consider signing them up for a school team 
Although tryouts for school sports teams can be competitive, there are a few things you can do to increase your chances of making the team. For example, girls who participate in competitive sports are less likely to have negative outcomes in their lives, such as drug and alcohol abuse, teenage pregnancy, poor academic performance, low self-esteem, and abusive relationships.
Playing tennis in high school or on an academic sports team can provide both boys and girls with positive experiences and opportunities to help them thrive later on. So to increase your child’s chances of making the team, follow these simple steps.
Go Over Your Fundamentals
Good technique is the foundation of any sport. Whether you’re shooting a basketball, swinging a golf club, or hitting a tennis ball, your success depends on executing the basic movements correctly. That’s why it’s so important to go over your fundamentals regularly alongside expert supervision. By working with a coach to identify your strengths and weaknesses, you can ensure your technique is up to par in every aspect of your game.
In addition to comprehensive stroke analysis, be sure to ask for an evaluation of your deep shots, cross-court shots, down-the-line shots, first and second serves, return game, drop shots, lobs, volleys, and footwork. Nailing these standard shots and with good technique as your foundation, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a solid player in high school.
Improve Your Mental Game
For instance, you may be under a lot of pressure when your team needs you to win to secure a victory. Everyone may be watching and cheering, which can add to the pressure, and in exactly these situations, it is important to be able to stay calm, level-headed, and focused. Working with certified/competent coaches or attending group classes with friends can help you learn how to avoid anxiety during the above-mentioned high-stress situations.
Knowledgable coaches set up practice sessions like those seen during games, so players know exactly what’s expected from them beforehand – no surprises. Tennis is a great sport, and with the right training routine and effective practices, you can learn how to handle any situation that comes your way.
Improve Your Doubles Performance
Although many players focus on honing their singles skills, it’s important to remember that doubles matches are just as important – if not more so – when it comes to winning conference and state titles. And unfortunately, many good singles players lack the skills to succeed in doubles.
That’s why, if you’re hoping to make the tennis team, it’s essential to work with an experienced coach who can teach you the ins and outs of doubles play. He or she can help you learn the proper positions, strategies, and tactics to become a valuable team asset. So don’t neglect your doubles game – start working on it today!
Get Fit for The Season
Many players erroneously believe that the best way to prepare for tennis tryouts is to focus on their aerobic conditioning. However, tennis is an anaerobic sport that requires a different type of conditioning than mere jogging or using a cardio machine.
Yes, the key is to build an aerobic base while also training for quick sprints, changing directions, and high-intensity movements. It’s just as important to learn how to recover after a grueling rally so you’re ready for the next one.
To get in shape for playing long matches without having fitness affect your level of play, take some lessons from a proven coach who can demonstrate footwork and conditioning drills that mimic what happens during a tennis match.
Inquire about high-intensity start-and-stop drills that require you to run hard for 30 seconds, followed by 90 seconds of recovery while maintaining proper technique. By following these tips, you’ll be sure to impress the coaches at tryouts and improve your chances of making the team.
FAQs
What Is the Season for High School Tennis?
Some high school tennis leagues take place in the Fall, in many parts of the country, the high school season is in the Spring.
Why Should Tennis Be Taught in Schools?
According to studies, young people who play tennis are more likely to practice good habits and give back to their community. It also provides kids with various physical, social, and emotional advantages not found in other sports.
According to a scientific study, students who play sports perform better academically, have better time management skills, and quit school much less frequently than those who don’t.
Extra Resource
Check out the USTA site to see how you can get tennis to be part of your school experience or improve an already existing tennis program within your school.
Christoph Friedrich is a German tennis player and coach currently residing in Oakland, California. He began his tennis journey at the age of eight and has since dedicated his life to the sport. After working as a tennis coach and hitting partner in New York City for eight years, Christoph decided to share his knowledge and experience with tennis players around the world by creating the My Tennis Expert blog. His goal is to make tennis education accessible to everyone and help players select the best equipment for their game, from racquets and strings to shoes and overgrips. Christoph's extensive research and expertise in tennis technology make him a valuable resource for players of all levels.