group coaching

Cam HughesCoach, England

Hi Asim, here’s an 8-session beginner tennis plan for two junior players, one hour per session:

Session 1 – Rally Basics

Focus: Consistent contact and control

• Warm-up: Mini rallies in service boxes
• Main Skill: Forehand and backhand groundstrokes (drop-feed → partner feed)
• Progression: Crosscourt rally to 5 shots
• Game: Rally Race – first to 10-shot rally

Session 2 – Footwork & Readiness

Focus: Movement and recovery

• Warm-up: Cone or ladder patterns
• Main Skill: Split-step and recovery drills
• Progression: Rally returning to ready position each time
• Game: Around the Clock – hit from varied spots

Session 3 – Serve Technique

Focus: Serve fundamentals

• Warm-up: Throwing drills for rhythm and toss
• Main Skill: Serve grip, toss, contact
• Progression: Aim for service box targets
• Game: Serve and Score – 1 point per serve in

Session 4 – Return of Serve

Focus: Reaction and control

• Warm-up: Quick-move reaction games
• Main Skill: Return from short feeds → real serve
• Progression: Return and rally to 3 shots
• Game: Return Challenge – 1 point per successful return

Session 5 – Net Play

Focus: Volleys and hand–eye control

• Warm-up: Catch-volley drills
• Main Skill: Forehand/backhand volley technique
• Progression: Approach + volley
• Game: King of the Net rotation

Session 6 – Rally Depth

Focus: Control and consistency

• Warm-up: Cooperative rally aiming deep
• Main Skill: Groundstrokes to depth targets
• Progression: Add side-to-side movement
• Game: Deep Wins – only deep balls score

Session 7 – Simple Tactics

Focus: Point building and shot choice

• Warm-up: Targeted rallies (wide or down the line)
• Main Skill: Crosscourt rally → attack pattern
• Progression: Mini matches to 7 points
• Game: 2-Ball Challenge – win two in a row

Session 8 – Match Play

Focus: Applying all skills

• Warm-up: Short dynamic rally
• Main Skill: Short sets (first to 4 games)
• Progression: Serve + return + rally focus
• Game: Championship Match and review