-
Step 1
Establish a volunteer board with various roles such as Commissioner, Treasurer, Facilities/Equipment Manager, and Marketing/Sponsorship Manager.
-
Step 2
Select the dates of which the league will be held. We suggest a six week season (with one or two extra weeks for team practices at the beginning) running in the spring time.
-
Step 3
Secure the Facility. High School sites are often the most accessible for a league of this sort. Remember, high school tennis programs stand to benefit immeasurably from a 6-TENNIS program near them because the program will not only create a larger base of tennis players in the area but will also be able to help improve the facilities by donating windscreens, score cards, benches, or other equipment.
-
Step 4
Establish online registration. By allowing players to register online, payments are easily recorded and player information is consistent and organized. This will save hours of time in the future.
-
Step 5
Promote your league. This should be done by taking advantage of several different mediums including fliers to the schools, free local newspaper listings, school assemblies, banners, web postings, and word of mouth. Remember, expect to bring in one participant for every 200 fliers sent to the schools, so think big! We also suggest that a few Open House days be held so people can register in person. This will also be a good time to recruit coaches.
-
Step 6
Hold an evaluation day. Players who have signed up for the league will be asked to perform various hand-eye coordination tests so that they can be drafted or placed on teams according to ability. Once all players have been evaluated, create the teams. Note: Be sure to make arrangements at a gym or other indoor facility in the event of rain. This is also an important step for recruiting parent coaches.
-
Step 7
Begin the league! After a few weeks of practice, team matches begin. Teams may decide to designate scorekeeprs or team parents to help coordinate snacks.
-
Step 8
End of Season Jamboree. Once all the matches are completed, all teams meet for a final day of playoff matches, friendly matches, or just some fun tennis games. Awards and trophies are handed out. This is a great opportunity to invite local pros to promote their summer tennis programs.
-
Step 9
Plan for next year and start the process again!
