Tennis Tip: What's The Best Age To Start Playing Tennis?

What is the optimum age to introduce to tennis to a child...? Just ask Elijah Chadwell. This photo was taken of Elijah at the tender age of 18 months. Now, a seasoned veteran of 24 months, Elijah loves to hang out at the courts with his daddy, Coach Sam.

Of course, Elijah is probably the exception to the rule... I do already work with my son on his movement and coordination skills. He loves to chase down tennis balls and is working on his striking skills, too. At this age it is crucial to have equipment scaled down and appropriate for the young body. Above all, I keep it fun. We don't over do it. Sometimes we only play for five minutes. At this stage it's crucial that Elijah equates tennis with fun times with dad, and he does. Making tennis fun is the most important thing a coach or parent can do in the early development of a child.

As I mentioned earlier, Elijah is an exception to the rule. At 2 years old he is way ahead of the game in a tennis setting. He is literally growing up at the courts...! I normally start a player at five years old if the interest is there...