How to Enter Into Amateur Tennis

The United States Tennis Association (USTA) organizes and runs an extensive network of tennis for amateur players in the United States. An abundance of tennis is available for amateur participation through a hierarchy of local, regional and national coordinators, with local and national competitions available. In addition, the USTA's National Tennis Rating Program (NTRP) makes tennis accessible for all, ensuring that amateurs play at a level appropriate to their fitness and ability.

Instructions

    • 1

      Read the USTA League's NTRP manual (see Resources) to determine your tennis level. Look at the NTRP's player descriptions and decide which is most suitable to your playing ability.

    • 2

      Become a member at the appropriate USTA level. Obtain an individual adult membership, for example, if you are 19 years old or above and are not joining the association as a group or with your family.

    • 3

      Contact your local USTA League coordinator and inform him that you wish to enter an amateur competition or league or ask for more information. Tell him about your tennis playing experience and where you believe you rank on the NTRP. Listen to the advice and information he provides you, and enter any amateur competitions or leagues that he suggests are suitable to your ability.

    • 4

      Practice and play competitive matches regularly to increase your ability and your NTRP rating so you can participate in higher-level competitions. Monitor the USTA League's National Championships website (see Resources), and ask your local league coordinator to keep you informed about upcoming national championships to ensure that you compete at the highest possible amateur level.