Skip to content
LTA Youth Stages

How the LTA Youth stages work

The official LTA Youth programme uses five coaching stages, from Blue to Yellow. Each stage matches a child's development with the right focus, activities and challenge. Listed ages are a guideline only. Session placement is based on a child's age, ability and experience.

Blue stage 01

Ages 4–6

Build the foundations

An introduction to tennis through fun, active games. Children explore the basics while developing balance, agility and hand-eye coordination.

Court & equipment: Age-appropriate activities and equipment support first steps.
Red stage 02

Ages 6–8

Start the rally

Children continue building speed, coordination and reaction time, with rallies, volleys and overarm serves becoming part of the game.

Court & equipment: Activities and equipment adapt as skills and confidence grow.
Orange stage 03

Ages 8–9

Bring in strategy

Players explore tactics, problem-solving and sportsmanship while sharpening their match-play skills and developing leadership qualities.

Court & equipment: Age-appropriate activities make room for tactics and match play.
Green stage 04

Ages 9–10

Step up the game

The LTA describes Green as the step up to a full-size court. Players refine their skills and techniques and learn to handle more competitive situations.

Court & equipment: Full-size court, with skills and technique continuing to develop.
Yellow stage 05

Ages 10+

Make it your game

On regulation courts with full-size balls, players explore different styles of play, build confidence and resilience, and develop a game of their own.

Court & equipment: Full-size balls on regulation courts, like the pros.

The best stage is the one that keeps tennis enjoyable.

Children build skills progressively through games and tennis activities. At MH Tennis, activities and equipment are adapted to the child's age and stage, so there is room to learn, enjoy the session and develop.

On Google

What players and parents say

5.0

11 reviews on Google

Policy document