Red, Orange, Green, Yellow (ROGY) Tennis

Tennis development follows a “progression system” that helps beginners gradually improve their skills using modified court sizes and ball types. The Red, Orange, Green, Yellow Ball Progression (ROGY) ensures players build a solid foundation before advancing to a full-speed game. This method is widely used in USTA junior programs, coaching academies, and international tennis training systems.

Red Ball (Beginner)

Ball Type: A large, soft, foam, or felt red tennis ball (25% compression compared to Yellow).
Court Size: 36 feet x 18 feet (smallest court).

Net Height: 2 feet, 9 inches

Age Range: Typically, 4–8 years old.

Bounce & Speed: Slow and low bounce, making it easier to hit. 25% speed of the Yellow Ball.

🔹 Purpose: The slower Red balls help players develop basic strokes, coordination, and rally skills in a controlled, manageable space. 

Orange Ball

Ball Type: Medium-sized, orange felt tennis ball (50% compression compared to Yellow).

Court Size: 60 feet x 21 feet (larger than red court but smaller than full court).

Net Height: 3 feet.

Age Range: Typically, 7–10 years old.

Bounce & Speed: Moderate bounce, 50% speed of the Yellow Ball.

🔹 Purpose: Orange ball play introduces more movement and strategy, improving rally consistency while maintaining control.

Green Ball

Ball Type: Standard-sized green felt tennis ball (75% compression compared to Yellow).

Court Size: Full court (78 feet x 27 feet for singles; 78 feet x 36 feet for doubles).

Net Height: 3 feet center, 3 feet 6 inches at net posts.

Age Range: Typically, 9–12 years old.

Bounce & Speed: Higher bounce, approaching standard yellow ball behavior. 75% speed of the Yellow Ball.

🔹 Purpose: Green ball training for advanced beginners helps players transition to full court play with realistic speed and movement while refining strokes.

Yellow Ball

Ball Type: Standard professional yellow tennis ball (100% compression).

Court Size: Full-size adult tennis court – 78 feet x 27 feet.

Net Height: 3 feet center, 3 feet 6 inches at net posts.

Age Range: Typically, 11+ years old and adults.

Bounce & Speed: Fast, high bounce, requiring full technique mastery.

🔹 Purpose: At this stage, players compete and train at professional speed, using precise control, footwork, and power.

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