British Tennis - Lawn Tennis Association

About the qualification

This is for coaches who do, or aspire to, work at the very highest level of performance coaching.

Through discussions with key coaches, research into other sports and reviews of previous LTA qualifications, the following description of a Master Performance Coach has been developed. This has formed the basis of the course criteria.

Qualities and characteristics of a Master Performance Coach:

• Delivers on court sessions to the highest level across all ages and standards
• Designs, implements and evaluates the process and outcome of long term/specialist coaching programmes
• Generates, directs and manages the implementation of cutting edge coaching solutions and programmes
• Displays leadership skills to create and manage change and adaptation to dynamic environments
• Gains more improvement from players in a shorter space of time than other coaches
• Is a high-level and creative planner for player development and an expert multi-level goal setter, combining long term ambitions with shorter term training plans
• Is able to problem solve to meet a player’s needs and understands how the disciplines combine to achieve a player’s goals
• Able to learn from other High Performance environments in other sports
• Communicates effectively and demonstrates high levels of emotional intelligence
• Demonstrates self reflection and takes responsibility for their own learning and CPD

The Master Performance Coach Qualification is not aimed at one particular age group of players. Instead coaches are expected to coach high level players of all ages to a high standard in order to achieve the qualification.

Duration of the course

• Two years (from application to completion)

Please note that an extensive commitment is required to complete this course and includes:

• Direct contact lasting approx one year
• Three projects of approx 10,000 words each
• Field placements and mentoring meetings

Course pre-requisites

• Hold either the LTA Senior Performance Coach Qualification or CCA.
• Be LTA Licensed.
• Have (or have had) a rating of 4.1 or below a Play Test Grade 3.
• Have knowledge and experience of recent terminology and methodology on LTA Coach Education Qualifications (coaches who hold the Senior Performance Coach Qualification will not have to give further evidence in this area).
• Had an ATP or WTA ranking of 500 or better at some point during your playing career
  or
  Currently or within the last three years held the position of Head Coach/ Player Director at an HPC.
  or
  Have worked with a matrix A or B player for a minimum of a year at some point during the previous three years.

More information on Coach Licensing

More information on Play Tests

Cost of the course

£1500 payable in advance

How to apply

Applications for the 2012 course open on 1 January 2012 and close on 1 June 2012. The course will begin in September 2012.

Applications should consist of the following:

• Proof that the applicant meet the above course pre-requisites.
• A CV including a list of players the applicant has worked with.
• Name and contact details of two referees. One of these must be a high level performance coach with direct knowledge of the applicants coaching.
• An application letter stating why the applicant wishes to enrol on the course and the strengths and values they will bring to it.

Email applications to Performance Coach Education and Programmes Manager Dan.Thorp@LTA.org.uk

Applications will be considered by the course committee and some applicants may be invited for an interview. All applicants will be notified by 30 June 2012 as to whether or not they have been successful.

Contact Katharine.Baker@LTA.org.uk for an information pack which includes all the details about the course. If you require further information about the course structure and content please email Dan.Thorp@LTA.org.uk