When to Start Competing
One of the most common questions parents ask is:
“When should my child start playing in tournaments or matches?”
It’s a great question—and an important one. At FOFTA, we believe that introducing competition at the right time can build confidence, sharpen focus, and teach valuable life skills. But starting too early, or with the wrong expectations, can lead to anxiety, frustration, and even burnout.
The short answer?
Your child should start competing when they’re emotionally ready, technically capable, and genuinely interested in trying. Not when other kids are doing it, not based on age alone, and not just to collect trophies.
✅ What Does “Ready” Look Like?
Readiness for competition depends on several factors, not just skill level. Here are the signs we look for:
1. They Can Keep Score (Or Are Learning To)
- Even in beginner formats, understanding how to keep score helps kids stay engaged, focused, and independent on the court.
2. They Can Start and Play a Point
- This means they can serve, rally a few shots, and try to finish the point. It doesn’t need to be perfect—it just needs to
resemble real play.
3. They Show Emotional Self-Control
- Can they win and lose a point without major frustration?
- Can they stay respectful toward opponents and officials?
- Are they open to learning from both wins and losses?
4. They Want to Try
- Motivation should come from them, not from parental pressure.
- If your child asks, “Can I play in a tournament?”—that’s a great sign.
🎾 Types of Beginner-Friendly Competition
At FOFTA, we recommend competition with formats that are age-appropriate and low-pressure, including:
- Red, Orange, or Green Ball Play Days are short, fun, round-robin events that emphasize participation rather than results.
- Team Challenges or In-House Matches build confidence and reduce performance pressure because players are in familiar environments.
- USTA Junior Circuit Events or Level 7 Tournaments. These are great for kids who’ve gained basic consistency and want to try formal match play.
Remember: competition doesn’t have to mean traveling every weekend. Even one event per month can offer valuable experience.
⚠️ What Happens If You Start Too Soon
If a player enters tournaments before they’re mentally or technically ready, they may:
- Feel embarrassed, frustrated, or overwhelmed
- Start associating tennis with anxiety instead of enjoyment
- Lose confidence in their progress
- Resist future opportunities to compete
That’s why we encourage readiness over rushing. Development is not a race, and every player’s path is unique.
🌱 What Parents Can Do
- Ask your child if they’re curious or excited about trying a tournament or match
- Celebrate effort, not outcome
- Stay positive, especially after a tough match
- Use matches as learning experiences, not judgments
- Partner with your coach to decide what formats make sense
At FOFTA, we believe competition should be introduced when it builds up a player, not breaks them down. With the right mindset, guidance, and support, match play can become one of the most rewarding parts of your child’s tennis journey.
“The goal of early competition isn’t just to win—it’s to grow.”