Signs of "Real" Improvement
What Progress Looks Like Beyond the Scoreboard
As a parent, it’s natural to want to see your child succeed—and in tennis, success often gets tied to results. Did they win? Did they beat someone they lost to last time? Are they moving up in rankings?
But at FOFTA, we teach families to look deeper. True improvement doesn’t always show up on the scoreboard—especially early on. In fact, the most important signs of progress are often subtle, internal, and developmental. Wins and rankings are nice, but look at them as ultimately a by-product of FOFTA training.
Here are some real and meaningful signs your child is growing as a player:
✅ 1. They’re More Confident and Comfortable on Court
Even if their skills are still developing, you may notice:
- Fewer hesitations when hitting
- More willingness to rally or try new shots
- Greater engagement in drills and games
Confidence often shows up before results, and it’s a strong sign your child is on the right track.
✅ 2. They’re Using Better Technique
Watch for:
- More consistent contact with the ball
- Improved swing shapes or footwork patterns
- Fewer mishits or awkward movements
These changes may seem small, but they are the building blocks for long-term success.
✅ 3. They’re Recovering Faster From Mistakes
A player who used to break down after an error might now:
- Shake it off and reset
- Move on to the next point with focus
- Listen to feedback without frustration
This shows growth in the mental pillar—a key area that supports all others.
✅ 4. They’re Thinking More Strategically
Especially in Orange, Green, or Yellow Ball stages, your child may:
- Start aiming for space instead of just hitting it back
- Adjust their shots to win longer rallies
- Ask questions about tactics or positioning
These are signs of strategic awareness, which grows through practice and match play.
✅ 5. They’re Taking More Ownership of Their Training
One of the clearest signs of development is when a player:
- Packs their own bag
- Warms up independently
- Asks to practice a specific shot or skill
This shows commitment, responsibility, and a growing love for the game.
🌟 A Final Thought for Parents
Improvement in tennis is like growth in a tree—it’s not always visible at first, but it’s happening beneath the surface. Trust the process, praise the effort, and celebrate the small wins.
In the long run, a player who improves in skill, mindset, and responsibility is headed for success on and off the court.