Frequently Asked Questions

Participants should bring an age-appropriate tennis racquet and ample water for proper hydration.  If a snack is suggested, please be sure it is “nut-free”.

Yes, tennis pros are equipped with junior sized racquets.  Racquets which are 19 inch, 21-inch, 23-inch, and 25-inch are $25.  The 26-inch racquets are $50 and for 27-inch adult racquets the prices may vary depending on the brand, model, etc.

Children should be able to swing and maneuver a racquet without it controlling them. When standing straight with arms at their side, the racquet length should be from the floor to the end of the fingertips.Pros are a valuable resource for determining age-appropriate racquets for children as well as grip sizes for adult players.  Inquire with pro for details.

QuickStart balls will be sold in packages of 12 for $25; 6 for $13.

We encourage participants to wear tennis sneakers, comfortable clothing and sun protection including a hat to protect against harmful rays. For programs offering waterslides, children may wear bathing suits underneath their tennis clothes and bring a towel.

Policies for rain make-ups may vary among towns. Please refer to your town’s web page for specific information.

Your child is ready for match play when he/she can consistently serve the ball and maintain a slow-paced rally.

Most programs encourage online registration. Please refer to each town’s website for details.

Yes, please contact us for availability and rates.

For ages 5 through 9, we offer indoor programs using junior nets at some area schools and YMCAs.  Also, also offer programs at Westport’s Sylvan Tennis Club and Newtown Youth Academy  for children and adults to play from September to May. Non-residents are welcome. 

Usually by the end of February for that year.

The USTA defines the ratings as follows:

• 2.5 – This player is learning to judge where the ball is going although court coverage is weak. Can sustain a short rally of slow pace with other players of the same ability.
• 3.0 – This player is fairly consistent when hitting medium-paced shots, but is not comfortable with all strokes and lacks execution when trying for directional control, depth, or power. Most common doubles formation is one up, one back.
• 3.5 – This player has achieved improved stroke dependability with directional control on moderate shots, but still lacks depth and variety. This player exhibits more aggressive net play, has improved court coverage, and is developing teamwork in doubles.
• 4.0 – This player has dependable strokes, including directional control and depth on both forehand and backhand sides on moderate shots, plus the ability to use lobs, overheads, approach shots, and volleys with some success. This player occasionally forces errors when serving. Rallies may be lost due to impatience. Teamwork in doubles is evident.

Courts are divided by level and ability according to the descriptions below. We will switch students during the session if necessary to ensure the appropriate level.

• Beginner: Player has either never held a racquet or has played sparingly without having formal instruction.
• Advanced Beginner: Player has completed the beginner class or has had introduction to grips and strokes and starts to make contact with ball on a regular basis.
• Low Intermediate: Player is starting to keep the ball in play, is learning to serve, can volley, and learning court positioning.
• Intermediate: Player can keep ball in play consistently, can hit with some spin and can serve and volley consistently.

Fairfield County Tennis will only provide make-ups if the class is canceled. For other make-ups, Fairfield County Tennis will always do our best to accommodate. However, a make-up class can only be offered if the level and age is appropriate providing there is an opening on the court. There are no refunds.

The Social Services office in your town will determine your family’s eligibility.  If your child qualifies for a free or reduced lunch, the Recreation Department in your town can verify that with the Social Services Department.  The Recreation Department will contact Fairfield County Tennis at that time to provide a discount and notify you.