To ensure a steady flow of world-class players in Britain it is essential that we have a system of talent identification to spot potential performance players at a young age. Having identified those with the skills to become the top players of tomorrow, we can then provide them with the right coaching and support.
Have you got talent?
You can be spotted as young as six years old – do you have these qualities?
- Natural talent for the game & athletic ability
- Keenness and a love of tennis
- An appetite and potential to improve basic technique
- To be prepared to play a minimum of three to four times a week
- To have a desire and ability to compete in matches and tournaments on a regular basis
Promising junior players are spotted through a number of routes:
- Playing and competing in tournaments
- Attending County talent ID days – players are put forward by clubs and coaches
- Recommended by your coach to be seen by the local member of the LTA Talent Team depending on your age
Players who are identified through the above may have the opportunity to attend:
- Regional ID days
- National ID days
Once identified, talented young players need to be in the right talent development programmes to challenge them, provide the correct level of training and coaching of the right quality, as well as regular competition.