How to Hire a Tennis Coach

Tennis requires a combination of etiquette, mental focus and quick reflexes best honed with the help of a tennis coach. Young athletes who want to play tennis especially need the tutelage of an experienced player before they proceed.

Instructions

1. Research the professional playing experience of a tennis coach before you make a hiring decision. You should look for a coach who has played in semi-professional and professional tournaments to get the best training possible.

2. Request proof of state certifications before you hire a tennis coach. These certifications are vital if you are hiring a coach for a minor or group of students in need of state-approved physical education training.

3. Investigate the educational background of a tennis coach to determine his expertise and his approach to teaching. Coaches who have a degree in education, physical education or conditioning will be able to walk you through tennis skills with the orderly discipline of a good teacher.

4. Seek testimonials and letters of recommendation from past students before you hire a tennis coach. These insights into a coach's style and results should be accompanied by contact information to verify the legitimacy of these claims.

5. Consult with high school and college tennis coaches to find inexpensive coaching for tennis players. These coaches are familiar with area academies and resources for novice players.

6. Expand your search for a tennis coach to the regional and national level to find the best resources. Your commitment to tennis may lead you to take courses and pursue coaching in out-of-state training schools.

7. Interview tennis coaches by phone before you create a list of finalists for a coaching position. Your questioning should include a request for a sample lesson to assess a coach's approach to teaching amateurs.

8. Schedule a visit to a tennis coach's current training sessions to see your finalists in action. You should watch the body language of students as well as the way a coach breaks up lessons to assess her strengths and weaknesses.

9. Draw up a contract with the tennis coach you hire to avoid problems down the road. This contract should feature a payment schedule as well as the number of hours that a coach will provide instruction in proceeding weeks. The coach might have a standard agreement to cover all this. Read it carefully and, if you're under 21, ask your parents to review the document.

Tips & Warnings

• Beginning players should invest in a coach who offers a basic level of training and instruction. You can select services like video analysis and access to professional players if you feel your tennis skills are progressing.