Tennis etiquette and sportsmanship for young players

Why etiquette matters in tennis

Many youth tennis matches are played without an official watching every point. Players keep score and make line calls themselves, so honesty and good manners are built into the game. That is one of the things that makes tennis a great sport for building character, and it can also feel unfamiliar to parents who are used to referees. This guide covers the habits coaches commonly teach. Your program may have its own rules, so check with your coach.

Making fair line calls

In standard play, each player calls balls on their own side of the net. A few widely accepted habits:

• Call it quickly and clearly. A late call is not fair to the opponent.
• Only call a ball out if you clearly saw it out. When in doubt, the ball is good, and the benefit of the doubt goes to the opponent.
• Remember that a ball touching any part of the line counts as in.
• Be honest even when the point matters a lot. Coaches value this more than the score.

Many programs teach a clear voice call and a hand signal, such as a finger pointing up for out. If there is a disagreement, players should stay calm and ask a coach or official if one is available. The basics of in and out are also in tennis rules for beginners.

Keeping score together

The server usually says the score out loud before each point, with the server's score first. This keeps both players on the same page. If players disagree, they should talk it through calmly and settle on the score they both agree on, asking a coach or official if one is available. Your event or program may have its own method for resolving disputes. A friendly tone goes a long way.

On-court manners

• Wait for a point to finish before walking behind a neighboring court.
• If a ball rolls onto another court, wait until their point ends, then politely ask for it back.
• Return balls to the server in a way that is easy to catch.
• If a ball from another court rolls onto yours during a point, either player can call a let and the point is replayed. Say it right away.
• Shake hands with the opponent at the end, win or lose.
• Do not throw racquets or shout at the ball. Frustration happens, and coaches help players learn to reset.

Handling nerves and losses

Tennis is often an individual sport, though team events exist too. A young player stands alone on the court, which can feel intense. Some things that tend to help:

1. Focus on the next point instead of the last mistake.
2. Take a deep breath between points.
3. Set a small goal, such as getting the first serve in, rather than only caring about the result.
4. Talk afterward about what went well before talking about what went wrong.

If nerves feel overwhelming or are affecting your child's enjoyment, talk with the coach, and consider a doctor or counselor if you are worried about wellbeing.

Parent etiquette on the sidelines

Tennis crowds are usually quiet during points, which can surprise new families. Common expectations include:

• Stay quiet while a point is being played, and save the applause for between points.
• Cheer for good shots from both players. Polite applause is welcome.
• Never call lines or argue calls for your child.
• Avoid coaching from the sidelines unless your program allows it. Rules about this vary by league and event, so ask.
• Stay out of the way of players during changeovers and breaks.

More ideas for sideline habits appear in how to prepare for tennis season.

Modeling good sportsmanship

Children copy what adults do. If you thank the opponent, applaud good play and keep your cool after a tough loss, your child is likely to do the same. A short, warm line on the drive home, such as "I loved watching you keep trying," tells your child what you value. For more on the sport, see the tennis hub page.

Frequently asked questions

What should my child do if they are unsure whether a ball was out?

In standard play, the ball is treated as good and the point goes to the opponent. Coaches teach players to only call a ball out when they clearly saw it out.

Why is it so quiet at tennis matches?

Players need to concentrate, so spectators are usually quiet during points. Applause between points is welcome.

Can parents help with line calls?

No. Players make the calls on their own side, and parents should not call lines or argue calls. If there is a problem, a coach or official can help.

Can I coach my child from the sidelines during a match?

Rules about this vary by league and event, so ask your program. Many youth events limit or forbid it.