By Kim Freeman, Junior Leagues Vice President
As we swing into our spring season for Junior ALTA, I would like to announce that we passed a rule allowing 15U to play full sets in place of a single pro set along with our 18U. We will now be counting games instead of converting to pro sets. Please see the new rule below:
IV. Dual Meets
C. All 10U and 12U matches will be 8-game pro sets. A match is won when one team wins eight games by a margin of at least two games. If the score reaches 7-all, two games are played. If a team wins both of these games, the win is scored 9-7. If the score reaches 8-all, a 7-point tie-break is played and the win is scored 9-8.
D. All 15U and 18U matches will be 2 adult sets. The 7-point tiebreak will be in effect anytime the score reaches six all in any set. In the case of split sets, a 10-point match tiebreak will be played to determine the match.
VIII. Scoring
For 10U and 12U the total number of games will be counted to determine the points awarded during a dual meet. A bonus point is awarded for each match won, except for a match won by a score of 9-7 or one in which a tie-break is played and the win is scored 9-8. Thus, the maximum number of points possible to earn in any dual meet is 36.
For 15U and 18U, the total number of games will be counted to determine the points awarded during a dual meet. The set games will be totaled for each team and one point will be awarded to the team who wins the 10-point tiebreak when the teams split sets. Thus, the maximum number of points possible to earn in any dual meet is 56.
Our new rule for allowing players to play twice in one match was introduced last fall, and we can proudly announce we were successful in eliminating defaults and our feedback has been extremely positive!
New rules, New Year, so let’s talk about new gear!
If you have been around the courts, you’ve seen things like this: kids swinging oversized racquets, gripping worn handles, or playing with strings that look older than they are. Then, there are the running shoes trying (and failing) to keep up with all the side-to-side movement.
It might seem minor, but equipment matters. It’s mostly about choosing gear that fits and keeping it in good condition.
The right racquet makes all the difference
Racquets come in countless sizes, but a junior racquet should match your child’s height and strength. A racquet that is too heavy or long makes natural swings difficult, and a grip that is too big can strain hands and wrists. A quick stop at a tennis shop, or a chat with your child’s coach, can help you find the right size fast. Many shops even let kids test a few before buying.
Fresh grips = happy hands
If the grip is worn or slippery, replace it. Over grips are cheap, easy to wrap, and instantly make the racquet feel better. A fresh grip improves comfort, prevents blisters, and helps kids avoid squeezing too tightly.
String and restring
Strings lose tension over time, even if they don’t break. A simple guideline: restring as many times per year as your child plays per week. You do not need premium strings, as most clubs offer affordable junior options.
Shoes: More than a style choice
Running shoes are not designed for tennis. Without lateral support, kids are more prone to rolled ankles and sore knees. Tennis shoes offer sturdy sides and durable soles meant for quick stops and slides. Look for sales or lightly used pairs, or many budget brands make solid junior tennis shoes too.
Why it really matters
When kids use gear that fits and feels good, they are more confident, progress faster, and have more fun — and fun keeps them coming back. Proper racquets, fresh grips, good strings, and supportive shoes are small details that make a big difference.
Before your next trip to the courts, take a quick look at your child’s gear. A few simple tweaks can help them play better, stay safer, and fall in love with tennis for life.
