Physically, you do not have to be a great athlete to master the game. However, you should be light on your feet and utilize your arms and body efficiently to hit the ball.

The racquet is an extension of your arm. Your arm only guides the racquet to hit the ball. You have to give the racquet the opportunity to strike the ball. For this reason, you should remember not to grip your racquet too tightly. Let the racquet do the "talking". A loose grip will give you more power and fewer "tennis elbows". By holding your racquet too tightly, you will never get any depth into your groundstrokes.

You do not have to be strong to hit the ball.

In executing your groundstrokes, forehand or backhand...early preparation of your backswing, stepping into the ball, hitting the ball in front of you, and follow through of your swing are the most important elements to gain accuracy and power. During this process, you must keep your feet moving and focus on the ball leaving the racquet of your opponent.

These technical steps are repeated continuously throughout the game. The more you are in control of this process, and the more you absorb the mechanics of these steps subconsciously, the stronger a player you will become mentally.

Anybody can learn this exciting game!

To be proficient at tennis, it will take some hard work and discipline, but remember, the better you hit the ball the more fun you will have.

Correct instruction is imperative - you do not want bad habits to creep into your game.

"Ritter's Critters" Cody, Nicki, Chantal, and our newest addition, Lit'l Scotty