How to choose a tennis coach
By the Finding Tennis team · Updated 30 October 2026
The best tennis coach for you is one who runs the kind of lesson you need (private, small group or clinic), at a time and place you can stick to, with a clear plan for your level. Ask about lesson format, group size, coach qualifications, what happens if it rains, and how progress is tracked before you book.
Private, group or clinic?
| Format | What it is | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Private lesson | One player, one coach | Fast technical progress, fixing a specific stroke, competition prep |
| Semi-private | Two or three players, one coach | Friends or family learning together, sharing the cost |
| Group class | A small group at a similar level | Beginners, kids, staying motivated, meeting people to play with |
| Clinic or squad | A structured session, often drill and match play | Improvers who want volume, match practice and fitness |
| School holiday program | Day or half-day sessions | Kids trying tennis, keeping juniors active in the holidays |
Many players mix formats: a group class every week and an occasional private lesson to work on one thing.
Questions to ask before you book
- What level is the class pitched at? A good coach will place you, not just take a booking.
- How many players per court? Smaller groups mean more hits.
- Who coaches, and what are their qualifications? Ask whether the coach is accredited through Tennis Australia's coaching pathway.
- What happens if it rains? Indoor courts, make-up sessions or credits.
- How is progress tracked? Look for a clear next step, not just "come back next week".
- Can I try a session first? Many academies offer a trial or an introductory lesson.
- For kids: Do they run Hot Shots stages with the right ball and court size for your child's age? See kids tennis.
Signs of a good fit
- You hit a lot of balls, and spend little time standing in a queue.
- Instructions are simple, one or two things at a time.
- The coach adapts drills to the level of each player.
- You leave knowing what to practise.
Where do coaches teach?
Australian coaching happens at tennis clubs, council tennis centres, schools and private academies. Many coaching businesses run out of a local club or centre, so the academy name and the venue name can be different. Every listing on Finding Tennis shows the address, map, phone, website and opening hours so you can check.
Find tennis coaching near you
1188 tennis coaching venues
Venue details last checked 30 Oct 2026.
Quick answers
How often should I take lessons?
Weekly is a common rhythm for beginners and juniors. Extra hitting between lessons speeds things up.
Do I need my own racquet for a first lesson?
Many coaches lend racquets to beginners. Ask when you book.
Are lessons outdoors?
Most Australian courts are outdoors. Ask about indoor options and wet weather policies.
Sources
Tennis Australia, Hot Shots.
Keep reading
How kids learn tennis in Australia: the Hot Shots blue, red, orange and green stages, the ages, balls, racquets and court sizes for each, and how to choose a junior program.
Never played, or coming back after years away? What your first adult tennis lesson looks like, what to bring, and how to go from first hit to playing games.
How tennis scoring works: 15, 30, 40, deuce and advantage, sets and the tie-break, plus no-ad scoring, short sets and the match tie-break used in club tennis.