Upcoming Sessions
- Late Winter: February 23 – April 4
- Spring: April 6 – June 1
*Registration takes place through CourtReserve. Create a Head of Household account first, then add additional youth to your account as family members.
See our CourtReserve FAQ and email courtreserve@innercitytennis.org with questions
Program Details
InnerCity Tennis teaching pros are top class and nationally accredited. The tennis curriculum they implement blends the USTA’s Net Generation curriculum, ICT’s Kidspeed, and their own experience-based teaching techniques.
Cities Academy is more than just tennis; our aim is to support whole-person youth development with the core values of enthusiasm, integrity, perseverance, respect, responsibility, service, and teamwork. So don’t be surprised to see pros facilitating conversations, asking questions, and prompting reflection that has impacts beyond the tennis court.
To join Cities Academy a young player new to InnerCity Tennis signs up for one or more classes, each one of which will meet once a week for the duration of a season.
There are six seasons youth are able to participate in throughout the school year. The following seasons typically last about seven weeks:
- Early / Late Fall
- Early / Late Winter
- Early / Late Spring
Multiple Registration Discounts
Fall / Winter / Spring:
- Development Programs: 10% discount for 2 or more days
- Performance Programs: 10% discount for 3 or more days
Scholarships
Scholarships are provided to young athletes needing financial assistance. Scholarship amounts / rates are determined by documented family capacity. Please see additional information below.
Cities Academy has two categories of programs, distinguished by how registration takes place.
- Development: Open registration programs for youth aged four to eighteen, beginner through advanced. The vast majority of our players, from first-timers to competitive high school players, train in Development Programs.
- Performance: Invitation-only programs for highly advanced players that compete year round in USTA tournaments.
See the Development and Performance tabs below for detailed program information.
Over the last few decades (but since many parents learned tennis as children) the USTA has developed and popularized the use of different color balls – of differing size and weight – to support young player development. These red, orange, green, and yellow balls are designed to be age-appropriate. It is an extremely effective tool and our programs are named to indicate the ball color typically used.
QUESTIONS? Contact juniors@innercitytennis.org with program questions and info@innercitytennis.org for registration help.
Please read the Details / F.A.Q. tab below before registering.
Development Programs
RED BALLERS
- 6U (ages 4-6) • Online Registration
- 8U (ages 7-8) • Online Registration
Red Ball courses are designed specifically for beginner and intermediate players aged 4-6! Little to no experience needed! Our enthusiastic instructors use ICT’s patented Kidspeed learning tools and stations to create a dynamic and engaging environment where your little ones will learn the ABCs of athletic skill: agility, balance, and coordination.
WHAT TO EXPECT:
- Fun and Engaging Sessions: Each class is crafted to keep young players excited and involved, ensuring they enjoy every moment on the court.
- Skill Development: Through playful activities and guided practice, children will build essential tennis skills and athletic abilities.
- Supportive Instructors: Our passionate coaches are dedicated to fostering a love for tennis while helping each child reach their full potential.
- Tailored for Young Learners: The program is perfectly suited for kids aged 4-6, with activities and lessons designed to match their developmental stage. To ensure early fun and success – kid friendly foam (6U) and felt (8U) balls with shorter rackets are used on appropriately scaled smaller 36 ft. courts.
Enroll your child today and watch them thrive on the court, developing not only tennis skills but also confidence and a lifelong love for the game!
After Red Rockets 8U players commonly advance to Orange Crushers 1.
Our 8U Red Baller program is specially crafted for beginner and intermediate players aged 6-8. With the guidance of our enthusiastic instructors, children will experience a unique and effective approach to learning tennis fundamentals using ICT’s patented Kidspeed learning tools and stations.
🔍 Program Highlights:
- Innovative Kidspeed Learning Tools: Our instructors utilize ICT’s patented Kidspeed tools and stations to teach the ABCs of athletic skill and tennis development—Agility, Balance, and Coordination.
- Age-Appropriate Activities: Children engage in a variety of fun and stimulating games and drills that are perfect for their age group, ensuring they stay motivated and entertained. Kid friendly felt (8U) balls with shorter rackets are used on appropriately scaled smaller 36 ft. courts.
- Fundamental Skills Development: We emphasize the development of core tennis skills, building a strong foundation for future growth and success on the court.
- Structured Learning Experience: Whether your child is a beginner or has some tennis experience, our structured lessons cater to all skill levels, providing a clear path to improvement.
- Positive and Supportive Environment: Our program fosters a positive and encouraging atmosphere where players feel motivated to learn, improve, and enjoy the game.
Join us for an exciting tennis journey filled with innovative learning techniques, laughter, and the opportunity to make new friends. Enroll today and watch your child thrive on the court while developing essential athletic skills and a passion for tennis!
After Red Rockets 8U players commonly advance to Orange Crushers 1.
ORANGE CRUSHERS 1 & 2
- 10U (ages 9-10) • Online Registration
Our Orange Crushers 1 program is specifically tailored for beginner and intermediate players aged 8-10. This class offers a fun and engaging approach to learning tennis fundamentals through interactive games and drills.
🔍 Program Highlights:
- Age-Appropriate Activities: Each session includes a variety of entertaining games and drills on an age-appropriate sized court using lightweight orange balls and shorter rackets, keeping players motivated and enthusiastic.
- Fundamental Skills Development: Our knowledgeable instructors focus on building essential tennis skills such as rallying with a partner, serving, game play and scoring, ensuring a strong foundation for each player’s growth.
- Structured Learning: The program is crafted to provide structured learning experiences that accommodate both beginners and those with some tennis experience.
- Positive and Supportive Environment: We cultivate a positive atmosphere where players feel encouraged to learn, improve, and enjoy their time on the court.
Join us for an exciting tennis journey filled with learning, laughter, and new friendships. Enroll today and watch your child thrive in a supportive and fun-filled environment!
Players new to orange balls (or to the sport in general) begin in Orange Crushers 1. After a year of skill development, or with encouragement from their coaches, players typically advance to Orange Crushers 2.
The Orange Crushers 2 Tennis Program is designed for young players aged 8-10 who are ready to build on their foundational skills and advance their game. This program offers fun and engaging training sessions that focus on developing essential tennis techniques and preparing players for more competitive play.
🔍 Program Highlights:
- Skill Enhancement: Our knowledgeable instructors emphasize the development of core tennis skills, including proper grips, swing paths, footwork, and ball control.
- Enhanced Drills and Games: Players participate in a variety of fun and challenging drills and games that are designed to improve their agility, balance, coordination, and court positioning.
- Competitive Play: Age-appropriate competitive scenarios allow players to test their skills in a supportive environment, fostering a love for the game and a spirit of healthy competition.
- Expert Coaching: Led by experienced coaches, the program provides personalized instruction to help each player reach their full potential and prepare for future tennis challenges.
- Positive and Encouraging Environment: We create a positive atmosphere where players feel motivated to learn, improve, and enjoy the game of tennis.
Join our Orange Crushers 2 Tennis Program and watch your child grow as a player! Enroll today to experience advanced training, make new friends, and develop a deeper passion for tennis in a fun and supportive environment.
After Orange Crushers 2 players commonly advance to Green Machines 1.
GREEN MACHINES 1 & 2
- 12U (ages 10-12) • Online Registration
Our Green Machines 1 program is specifically designed for beginner and intermediate players aged 10-12. Utilizing slightly lighter green balls to enhance the learning experience, our dedicated instructors focus on teaching tennis fundamentals through a variety of enjoyable games and drills that emphasize consistency, accuracy, and court positioning.
🔍 Program Highlights:
- Age-Appropriate Activities: Players engage in a variety of fun and stimulating games and drills tailored to their age group, ensuring they stay motivated and enthusiastic.
- Fundamental Skills Development: Our expert instructors emphasize the development of core tennis skills, providing a strong foundation for each player’s growth.
- Structured Learning: The program offers structured learning experiences that accommodate both beginners and intermediate players, ensuring a clear path for improvement.
- Positive and Supportive Environment: We foster a positive atmosphere where players feel encouraged to learn, improve, and enjoy their time on the court.
Join us for an exciting tennis journey filled with learning, laughter, and new friendships. Enroll today and watch your child thrive in a supportive and fun-filled environment!
Players new to green balls (or to the sport in general) begin in Green Machines 1. Typically after a year of skill development, or at the recommendation of their coach, players advance to Green Machines 2.
Our Green Machines 2 program is designed for intermediate players aged 10-12 who are ready to take their skills to the next level. Led by enthusiastic instructors, this program focuses on creating well-rounded players through a variety of fun and challenging games and drills.
🔍 Program Highlights:
- Comprehensive Skill Development: Our dedicated instructors emphasize tennis fundamentals while incorporating advanced techniques to develop a complete player.
- Engaging Activities: Players participate in a range of enjoyable games and drills that enhance their skills, including consistency, accuracy, and strategic court positioning.
- Pathway to Advancement: With the pro’s approval, players will have the opportunity to progress into our Yellow Acers Intro or Acers 1 classes, continuing their tennis journey at a higher level.
- Supportive Environment: We create a positive and encouraging atmosphere where players feel motivated to improve and enjoy the game.
Join us for an advanced tennis experience filled with learning, fun, and the opportunity to grow as a player. Enroll today and take the next step in your tennis journey!
YELLOW ACERS Intro, 1 & 2
- Intro (13-18, Beginner to Low Intermediate)
- 1 (13-18, Low Intermediate to Intermediate)
- 2 (13-18, Intermediate to High Intermediate)
- Online Registration
Our 18U Intro Program is specifically designed for beginner and intermediate players aged 13-18. This program is ideal for teenagers who are new to tennis and those looking to transition into playing with the yellow ball. Led by knowledgeable instructors, our classes focus on teaching tennis fundamentals through interactive and enjoyable games and drills.
🔍 Program Highlights:
- Foundational Skills: Players will learn the essential skills and techniques of tennis, building a strong foundation for future growth and development.
- Engaging Activities: Our instructors use a variety of fun and interactive games and drills to keep players motivated and engaged while they learn.
- Transition to Yellow Ball: This program helps players smoothly transition to using the yellow ball, preparing them for more advanced levels of play.
- Supportive Learning Environment: We create a positive and supportive atmosphere where teenagers feel encouraged to learn, improve, and enjoy the game of tennis.
Join our Teen Tennis Intro Program and start your tennis journey today! Learn the fundamentals, make new friends, and discover the joy of playing tennis in a fun and engaging environment.
The Yellow Acers 1 program is designed for low intermediate to intermediate players aged 13-18 who enjoy the game and aspire to play middle school or high school tennis. This program offers training to help players enhance their skills and prepare for competitive play.
🔍 Program Highlights:
- Skill Development: Our experienced instructors focus on refining techniques and building on foundational skills to help players improve their game.
- Competitive Edge: Players will engage in drills and matches designed to develop their strategic thinking, consistency, and overall performance.
- Pathway to Advancement: With the pro’s approval, players will have the opportunity to progress into our Yellow Acers 2 classes, continuing their journey towards higher levels of competition.
- Supportive Environment: We foster a positive and encouraging atmosphere where players feel motivated to excel and enjoy the game.
Join our Yellow Acers 1 Tennis Program and take your skills to the next level! Train with passionate instructors, compete with peers, and prepare for middle school or high school tennis in a supportive and dynamic environment.
The Yellow Acers 2 Tennis Program is designed for intermediate to high intermediate players aged 13-18 who have experience competing in JV, Varsity, USTA teams, or entry-level tournaments. This program aims to further develop competitive skills and prepare players for advanced levels of play.
🔍 Program Highlights:
- Advanced Skill Enhancement: Our expert instructors focus on refining techniques, enhancing strategic thinking, and improving overall performance to help players excel in competitive environments.
- Competitive Play: Players engage in high-level drills and matches that simulate real tournament conditions, honing their skills for JV, Varsity, and USTA competitions.
- Pathway to High Performance: With the pro’s approval, players will have the opportunity to progress into our High-Performance classes, advancing their tennis journey towards elite levels.
- Supportive Environment: We create a positive and encouraging atmosphere where players feel motivated to push their limits and achieve their best.
Join our Yellow Acers 2 Tennis Program and elevate your game! Train with dedicated instructors, compete with skilled peers, and prepare for higher levels of tennis in a dynamic and supportive environment.
Performance Programs
Experienced players interested in Performance Pathway programs should contact the HP coaching staff to arrange an assessment. Performance classes are invitation-only to ensure these competitive, year-round tournament play experiences are a good fit for each participant.
Questions? Email Ben Wheaton: ben.wheaton@innercitytennis.org
8U ADVANCED
Red Ball (ages 5-8) • Registration
The Red Advanced Tennis Program is an invitation-only class for young players, typically aged 5-8, who have demonstrated a solid foundation in tennis and are ready to advance their skills. This program focuses on developing proper footwork, ball control, and court positioning through age-appropriate games and drills.
🔍 Program Highlights:
- Advanced Skill Development: Coaches emphasize proper footwork, ball control, and court positioning, helping young players refine their techniques and improve their overall game.
- Engaging Activities: Players participate in fun and challenging games and drills tailored to their age group, encouraging them to test their skills in a supportive environment.
- Honorable Competitive Play: The program fosters a sense of fair play and sportsmanship, allowing young athletes to experience the joy of honorable competition.
- Expert Coaching: Led by experienced instructors, the program offers personalized guidance to ensure each player continues to improve and reach their full potential.
- Positive Environment: We create a positive and encouraging atmosphere where young players feel motivated to learn, improve, and enjoy the game.
Join our Red Advanced Tennis Program and watch your child thrive on the court! Experience the excitement of advanced training, develop essential skills, and enjoy the fun of competitive play in a supportive environment.
10U ADVANCED
Orange Ball (ages 7-10) • Registration
The Orange Advanced program is an invitation-only class designed for young players, typically aged 7-10, who have mastered the basics of proper grips, swing paths, and service motion. This advanced training program focuses on honing more refined skills and introducing competitive play in a supportive and engaging environment.
- Advanced Skill Development: Coaches emphasize proper footwork, ball control, and court positioning, helping players refine their techniques and elevate their game.
- Competitive Play: Age-appropriate games and drills encourage young athletes to test their skills in a competitive setting, fostering a love for the game and a spirit of healthy competition.
- Expert Coaching: Led by experienced instructors, the program offers personalized guidance to ensure each player continues to improve and reach their full potential.
- Engaging Activities: The training includes fun and challenging drills tailored to the advanced skill level of the participants, keeping them motivated and excited to learn.
Join our Orange Advanced Tennis Program and take your game to the next level! Experience the thrill of advanced play, build lasting friendships, and develop a deeper passion for tennis.
12U ADVANCED
Green Ball (ages 9-12) • Registration
The 12U Advanced program is an invitation-only class for young players, typically aged 9-12, who are ready to train, compete, and execute basic tactics on a full-sized, 78’ tennis court. This advanced program focuses on preparing players for competitive play and transitioning to the yellow ball when appropriate.
- Advanced Training: Our expert coaches provide intensive training to enhance physical readiness, tactical understanding, and overall performance on a full-sized court.
- Competitive Play: Players engage in drills and matches designed to develop their competitive edge, focusing on strategy, consistency, and precision.
- Transition to Yellow Ball: When appropriate, coaches will guide players through the transition from green to yellow balls, preparing them for higher levels of play.
- Expert Coaching: Led by experienced instructors, the program offers personalized guidance to ensure each player reaches their full potential.
- Supportive Environment: We foster a positive and encouraging atmosphere where players feel motivated to excel and enjoy the game.
Join our Green Advanced Tennis Program and take your game to the next level! Experience the thrill of advanced play, refine your skills, and prepare for competitive tennis in a supportive and dynamic environment.
18U HIGH PERFORMANCE
Yellow Ball (ages 10-18) • Registration
Questions? Email Ben Wheaton at ben.wheaton@innercitytennis.org
The High-Performance Tennis Program is tailored for committed, year-round tournament players who compete regularly in upper-level USTA competitions and aspire to play college tennis. This comprehensive program is designed to provide players with the tactical training and tools needed to compete at the highest levels of the game in sectional, national, and international play.
(UTR 4+ required)
- Intensive Training: Each week includes hours of intense drilling, tennis-specific conditioning, and competitive point and match play to ensure players are in peak condition.
- Tactical Development: Our expert coaches provide advanced tactical training, focusing on strategy, shot selection, and mental toughness to prepare players for high-stakes competition.
- Competitive Play: Players engage in rigorous point and match play, simulating real tournament conditions to sharpen their competitive edge.
- Personalized Coaching: Private athletic development and tennis coaching is highly recommended to support each player’s individual growth and performance goals.
- Pathway to College Tennis: This program is designed for those who aspire to play college tennis, offering the training and support needed to reach that level.
Join our High-Performance Tennis Program and take your game to the next level! Train with dedicated coaches, compete with top-level peers, and prepare for a future in college tennis in a focused and competitive environment.
*Only those with prior approval should register online for performance programs. Approval in Court Reserve is required to register. Reach out to Ben Wheaton, Performance Pathways Programs Head Coach at ben.wheaton@innercitytennis.org for more information or assistance*
Cities Academy Scholarships
ICT’s scholarship fund is made possible by generous donors, allowing us to offer financial support to youth with financial need. Scholarship percent discounts range from 25% – 75% based on documented need.
The ICT staff team reviews scholarship applications on an ongoing basis, typically within five to seven business days. If approved, ICT staff will update the participant’s account, allowing them to register directly for a classes or session with adjusted pricing. Do not register for a class or session until your scholarship has been granted as ICT staff do not retroactively change pricing for scholarship awardees.
Questions? Email: juniors@innercitytennis.org
Para recibir apoyo con la solicitud, por favor contacta a Dilcia Stromberg en juniors@innercitytennis.org.
Haddii aad u baahan tahay taageero loo sameeyo codsashada, fadlan la xiriir Dilcia Stromberg at juniors@innercitytennis.org.
Yog tias koj xav paub tias muaj kev pab rau koj nyob rau hauv kev pab txhawb nqa, thov sau ntawv ntawm Dilcia Stromberg ntawm juniors@innercitytennis.org.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
BILLING – REFUNDS – MAKE-UP POLICIES
Our refund policy has been updated. Make-up classes will no longer be available, and refunds will not be issued for missed classes. All withdrawal, refund, or credit requests must be made in writing by emailing us at juniors@innercitytennis.org; ICT will not accept verbal requests.
- When is our payment due?
Payment is required before or during the first week of class. - Do you allow make up classes if my child needs to miss a day?
ICT will not provide make-up classes or account credit for individual dates missed during a program session (i.e., a player misses a class due to a school or family event) - What if I need to cancel my registration after the session has begun?
Requests made before the program starts will be provided with an account credit unless you request a refund (see below) - What if InnerCity Tennis closes due to weather?
We will provide a credit for any classes ICT cancels. To request a credit on your account, please email juniors@innercitytennis.org
- What is your cancellation policy?
Account credits will only be considered if a player must withdraw for the remainder of the session due to a physician-verified illness or injury. No refunds will be provided after the session begins. - What is your refund policy?
– Make-up classes will no longer be available, and refunds will not be issued for missed classes.
– At least one week notice: Refund requests will be considered on a case-by-case basis
– Less than one week notice: If we can resell the spot, a refund will be considered
– After the program begins: No refunds will be provided
Only full program refunds may be requested. No refunds will be provided for individual dates missed during a program session.
*All refunds will include a 5% refund fee
CLASS REGISTRATION AND PLACEMENT
- How do I register for classes?
You can register online through Court Reserve. If you have issues registering for a particular class, email juniors@innercitytennis.org. - What class should my child register for?
We suggest all players start based on their current age regardless of experience level. Coaches will reach out to parents when they feel players are ready to progress to the next level. - How do I get a scholarship?,
Fill out our Scholarship Application; proof of income is required for those requesting 75% but do not qualify for free or reduced lunch programs. - What if I’m interested in the Performance Pathway classes?
Please reach out to the following coaches to set up an evaluation Nick Dunivant - What if the session has already started?
Kids may join the session at any time, your cost will be prorated automatically when you get to the “cart”. - What if I feel my player should move up a level?
Please email us at juniors@innercitytennis.org. - What if we want to change class days or times?
– Only updates requested at least one week in advance will be accepted.
– Players will be moved to requested class if there are spots available.
Do you have additional questions? Please feel free to reach out to us at juniors@innercitytennis.org.