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
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absolute beginners to 2.0 | orange ball
STAGE 1: OPEN TO ALL BEGINNERS
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.
More than one round of orange ball? Totally normal.
Tennis is a skill that rewards practice between lessons. If you're not getting much court time outside of class, repeating orange ball is a smart move — not a step back. Many players find their second session is where everything really clicks.
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NTRP 2.0 to 2.5 | green ball
STAGE 2: COACH RECOMMENDATION REQUIRED
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.
A note on the requirement...
To enroll in green ball, you'll need a recommendation from one of our tennis coaches. This isn't a hurdle — it's how we make sure every player in that class is ready to get the most out of it. The main benchmark is being able to sustain a rally, and your orange ball coach will let you know when you're there. If you have not participated in orange ball but have some tennis experience, please contact Bynum Matthews for direction.
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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 | Tuesdays | July 21 - August 25 | 11:00 am - 12:30 pm | $150
Orange Ball | Tuesdays | July 21 - August 25 | 7:00 - 8:30 pm | $150 (FULL)
Green Ball | Tuesdays | July 21 - August 25 | 11:30 am - 1:00 pm | $150
Green Ball | Thursdays | July 23 - August 27 | 6:00 - 7:30 pm | $150 (FULL)
Yellow Ball | Starting soon
If you have any questions please 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.
