Play to Learn

The Blue Stage introduces children to tennis through games and fun activities. Children learn the basics of tennis including how to rally using lots of adapted equipment such as balloons, big balls and beanbags. Often, blue sessions are held indoors in spaces more suited to small people. The Red stage is for beginners.

The Red ball stage in Tennis Australia’s ANZ Tennis Hot Shots program is designed for players aged 5-8, using smaller courts, a smaller net, and a low-compression red ball to make learning tennis more accessible and fun. The focus is on developing basic skills like agility, balance, coordination, and introducing fundamental tennis concepts.

In junior tennis, the orange ball is used in the “Orange Stage” (typically for ages 8-10) and is a low-compression ball, meaning it bounces lower and moves slower than a standard yellow tennis ball. This makes it easier for young players to hit and control, allowing them to develop their fundamentals and gain confidence. The Orange Stage also features a smaller court, which further aids in skill development.

Green balls in tennis are used for younger players, specifically those in the green stage of development (typically ages 9-11), and are part of the “Hot Shots” or “10-and-Under” program. These balls are less compressed than yellow balls, bouncing lower and moving slower. This helps children develop their technique and timing more easily. Green ball players also play on a full-sized tennis court.