Bethel Parks & Rec
Easton Parks & Rec
Fairfield Parks & Rec
Milford Recreation
Newtown Parks & Rec
Newtown Youth Academy
Orange Parks & Rec
Stratford Recreation
Wilton Parks & Rec
Wilton YMCA
   Frequently Asked Questions

What should my child bring to tennis?
Participants should bring an age-appropriate tennis racquet and ample water for proper hydration.

Do you sell racquets?
Yes, tennis pros are equipped with junior sized racquets (21-inch, 23-inch, 25-inch and 26-inch racquets) and 27-inch adult racquets. Pros are a valuable resource for determining age-appropriate racquets for children as well as grip sizes for adult players. Prices may vary. Inquire with pro for details.

What should my child wear?
We encourage participants to wear tennis sneakers, comfortable clothing and sun protection including a hat to protect against harmful rays. For programs offering waterslides, children may wear bathing suits underneath their tennis clothes and bring a towel.

When are rain make-ups?
Policies for rain make-ups may vary among towns. Please refer to your town's web page for specific information.

How can I know if my child is ready for match play?
Your child is ready for match play when he/she can consistently serve the ball and maintain a slow-paced rally.

How can I sign up my child for tennis programs?
Most programs encourage online registration. Please refer to each town’s website for details.

Can I get private lessons for my child?
Some towns offer the option of private lessons. However, other towns have strict rules against private lessons. Refer to Tennis Director for details concerning your town.

Are there any indoor tennis programs offered?
For ages 5 through 9, we offer indoor programs using Pee Wee nets at some area schools. Also, we now use Westport’s Sylvan Tennis Club and Newtown Youth Academy sites for children and adults to play from September to May. Non-residents are welcome.

When will information be available for Spring and Summer tennis programs?
Usually by the end of February for that year.

As an adult, which level best fits my ability?
The USTA defines the ratings as follows:

  • 2.5 - This player is learning to judge where the ball is going although court coverage is weak. Can sustain a short rally of slow pace with other players of the same ability.
  • 3.0 - This player is fairly consistent when hitting medium-paced shots, but is not comfortable with all strokes and lacks execution when trying for directional control, depth, or power. Most common doubles formation is one up, one back.
  • 3.5 - This player has achieved improved stroke dependability with directional control on moderate shots, but still lacks depth and variety. This player exhibits more aggressive net play, has improved court coverage, and is developing teamwork in doubles.
  • 4.0 - This player has dependable strokes, including directional control and depth on both forehand and backhand sides on moderate shots, plus the ability to use lobs, overheads, approach shots, and volleys with some success. This player occasionally forces errors when serving. Rallies may be lost due to impatience. Teamwork in doubles is evident.
How do I know which level to sign my child up for?
Courts are divided by level and ability according to the descriptions below. We will switch students during the session if necessary to make sure your child is in the  appropriate level.

  • Beginner: Player has either never held a racquet or has played sparingly without having formal instruction.
  • Advanced Beginner: Player has completed the beginner class or has had introduction to grips and strokes and starts to make contact with ball on a regular basis.
  • Low Intermediate: Player is starting to keep the ball in play, is learning to serve, can volley, and learning court positioning.
  • Intermediate: Player can keep ball in play consistently, can hit with some spin and can serve and volley consistently.