Getting Started
Join the fun at any age
Tennis basics
Tennis is a great way to stay active and it’s never too late to get started.
The basics are easy to learn and there are programs around the state to help you get started enjoying the sport.
Scoring
Yes, we do keep score in tennis!
You win games to win a set.
You win sets to win a match.
Keeping score is easy.
Basic Scoring
Depending upon skill level and program, tennis matches are scored using traditional (Love, 15, 30, 40, Game) and simplified scoring (1, 2, 3, 4, Game).
- GAME – Consists of 4 points. The player typically must win by 2 points
- SET – Consists of a certain number of GAMES won
- MATCH – Consists of a certain number f SETS won
Scoring Terms
- LOVE – A score of 0 (zero) in traditional tennis scoring
- ACE – A serve that lands in the service box and is untouched by the opponent
- DEUCE – A game that is tied at 40 – 40 or 3 – 3
- ADVANTAGE – Player who wins the next point after DEUCE is said to have the ADVANTAGE
- NO-AD – Player doesn’t have to lead by 2 points to win a game
How to Choose a Racquet
Choosing the right tennis racquet is one of the basics. Tennis racquets vary in size and weight. Check out the video to see how to choose the best tennis racquet for you.
How to Choose Tennis Balls
Tennis balls are created for different levels and playing surfaces.
- Yellow – Typical ball style used in most play
- Green – The green ball is slower and lower bouncing than the yellow. Play is on the standard 78-foot x 27-foot court.
- Orange – The orange ball moves slower and bounces lower than the green. It’s perfect for smaller 60-foot courts.
- Red – The red ball moves the slowest and bounces lower than an orange ball. Perfect for players just starting or playing on a 36-foot court.
Basic Tennis Strokes
Serve
Forehand
Backhand
How to Get Started
There are beginner tennis programs throughout South Carolina. You can contact your local tennis facility for more information about beginner tennis in your area.
Click the button below for more information.
If you don’t see a program in your area, contact us at (803) 781-2574.