Course Objective:
This 12 hour course aims to equip young participants aged 14+ with the skills and knowledge to assist in tennis coaching, focusing on our succesful coaching methodology. By the end of the course, participants will be able to effectively support coaches, understand detailed coaching techniques, and contribute to player development.
Session 1: Introduction to Coaching Methods
1.1 Course Overview and Expectations 
  • Welcome and introduction
  • Course objectives and structure
  • Role and responsibilities of a Coaching Assistant
  • Importance of communication and leadership in coaching
1.2 RPTeurope Coaching Philosophy and Methods 
  • Introduction to developing your coaching approach
  • Key principles: Player-centred development, long-term growth, psychological and physical balance
  • How assistants contribute to implementing these principles in practice
1.3 Professional Standards, Etiquette, and Safety in Tennis
  • Outline of professional responsibilities and expectations
  • Emphasis on safety protocols during training sessions
  • Role of the assistant in maintaining a safe and respectful environment
Session 2: Advanced Tennis Skills and Techniques 
2.1 Warm-Up Techniques and Dynamic Exercises 
  • Advanced warm-up routines
  • Introduction to sport-specific exercises for agility, balance, and coordination
  • Role of the assistant in leading warm-ups
2.2 Footwork 
  • Introduction to the footwork patterns
  • Understanding why and when
  • Variations
2.3 Mastering Tennis Strokes and Techniques
  • Introduction to the coaching progressions on key strokes
  • Tactical application of each stroke
  • Drills to reinforce technical skills, with assistants practicing observation and feedback
2.4 Cool-Down and Injury Prevention
  • Comprehensive cool-down routines focusing on injury prevention
  • Introduction to recovery techniques: stretching, hydration, and rest
  • Assistants' role in ensuring players’ post-training recover
Session 3: Assisting in Coaching Sessions
3.1 Understanding the Coaching Process 
  • Breakdown of a typical coaching session structure
  • Role of the assistant in supporting different phases: warm-up, skill development, cool-down
  • Importance of flexibility and adaptability in assisting
3.2 Communication and Leadership Skills
  • Effective communication techniques with players and coaches
  • Developing leadership skills: Leading small groups, giving instructions, and motivating players
  • Practical exercises: Role-play scenarios to enhance leadership abilities
3.3 Practical Session: Assisting in Coaching Scenarios 
  • Hands-on practice: Participants assist in running drills and exercises
  • Focus on setting up equipment, managing player rotations, and offering feedback
  • Group debrief: Discuss experiences and learnings
​Session 4: Game-Based Learning and Drill Design 
4.1 Introduction to Game-Based Learning 
  • Importance of integrating games into training
  • How games enhance tactical understanding and enjoyment of the sport
  • Role of the assistant in facilitating game-based learning
4.2 Designing and Leading Drills 
  • Fundamentals of designing effective drills for different skill levels
  • Introduction to creative and engaging drills that develop specific skills
  • Participants design and lead drills, receiving feedback from peers and instructors
4.3 Fun Drills and Competitive Games 
  • Implementation of fun drills designed to improve specific aspects of the game
  • Organizing and managing small competitions among participants
  • Emphasis on maintaining a balance between competitiveness and enjoyment
Session 5: Physical and Mental Training for Tennis 
5.1 Physical Conditioning for Tennis Players 
  • Physical conditioning: Agility, Balance, Coordination
  • Introduction to tennis-specific conditioning drills
  • Role of the assistant in monitoring and guiding conditioning sessions
5.2 Mental Training and Focus 
  • Techniques for developing mental toughness, focus, and resilience
  • Role of the assistant in supporting the mental aspect of players’ development
  • Practical exercises: handling the between point time
Session 6: Evaluation, Certification, and Future Development 
6.1 Review of Key Concepts and Skills 
  • Recap of all sessions: Key takeaways and learnings
  • Group discussion: Sharing experiences and insights
  • Q&A session to address any remaining questions
6.2 Practical Evaluation 
  • Participants are assessed on their practical skills in assisting a mock coaching session
  • Focus on communication, drill execution, and player interaction
6.3 Next Steps 
  • Information on further coaching development opportunities
  • Encouragement to continue pursuing coaching qualifications and involvement in the sport