Up until now a lot of hard work has been done by both the coach and player to acquire the basic skills needed to become a descent tennis player.

It is of the utmost importance that players develop using the 5 Game situations Serve, Return, Baseline game, Approaching and Passing. This can be done by being exposed to better players on a regular basis.

At this stage basic physical training habits should also be instilled and followed in order to ensure that a sound foundation is built upon.

All 4 areas of the game need to be addressed during this phase of "Learning to train" and will look as follow:

Technical

1. Sound technique for all five game situations
2. Ensure technique will allow for future development (variety spin, advanced grips for the serve and volleys)
3. Development of fine strokes
4. Ensure correct movement and footwork patterns
5. Efficient groundstroke technique that allows to play on the rise.

Physical

1. Dexterity; static and dynamic balance
2. Development of speed and speed strength
3. Develop stamina
4. Develop flexibility

Tactical

1. Using serve as a weapon
2. Familiarise with different styles of play
3. Continue work in all 5 game situations
4. Develop attacking patterns from mid and three-quater court as well as shoulder high balls.

Mental

1. Must be performance based, no emphasis on the outcome
2. Mistake management
3. Concentration and self confidence skills are essential
4. Understanding of the commitment needed for a tennis player.

The ratio of Tennis Competition vs Tennis Training should be 20/80 TO 30/70 depending on the level of the player. Players should compete in local u/12 or u/14 events.  One should be very careful not to over-emphasize results and the importance of winning!

This is a critical phase and age where players are often broken and decide to quit due to unrealistic expectations from either parents or even coaches.