Our ACES Pathway has been running since 2022, this is the foundation level of our performance programme. We are searching for our next group of Future Stars to become part of our ACES Pathway, The ACES are spread across 4 weekly sessions at multiple venues in Norwich all indoor venues using sponge tennis balls.
The ACES Pathway is aimed at children in specific year of birth age categories (aligned with the junior tennis competition structure). Our pathway is designed to identify and nurture young tennis players with the potential to provide these young athletes with the necessary training and guidance to develop their skills and abilities in tennis, setting them on a path to our second academy stage called the Futures performance programme.
Age Group Selection: The program is specifically tailored for children between the ages of 4 and 9. This age range is considered critical for identifying early talent and providing the right training environment to support them through their entry stages of tennis.
Check out our FREE upcoming finding future stars sessions in Norwich.
Our 4 ACES Venues in Norwich are:
- Sportspark UEA
- East Anglia Tennis & Squash Club
- Norwich Parks Tennis
- Taverham Tennis Club
The programme begins with an initial skill assessment to evaluate each child’s fundamental tennis skills, such as hand-eye coordination, agility, balance, and basic stroke techniques. This assessment helps determine their current level and potential for development, this will be done by our expert ACES coaching team who have years of experience of working with this age and stage of player. Upon successful selection we our ACES Pathway will offer:
1) Qualified Coaches:
1) Qualified Coaches:
- Qualified Coaches: The program is led by experienced and qualified tennis coaches who specialize in working with young children. These coaches have expertise in teaching age-appropriate techniques, creating engaging training sessions, and fostering a positive and supportive learning environment.
2) Training Curriculum:
2) Training Curriculum:
Training Curriculum: Based on the skill assessment, a structured training curriculum is designed to cater to the individual needs and abilities of each player. The curriculum focuses on developing essential tennis skills, including footwork, stroke technique, volleys, serves, and basic strategies, while emphasising fun and enjoyment of the sport.
3) Physical Conditioning:
3) Physical Conditioning:
Physical Conditioning: Alongside tennis-specific skills, the program may include basic physical conditioning exercises and activities to enhance the players’ overall fitness, coordination, and strength. These exercises are designed to be age-appropriate and fun, promoting healthy physical development.
4) Progress Monitoring:
4) Progress Monitoring:
Progress Monitoring: Regular progress assessments are conducted to track each player’s development and identify areas that require further focus. These assessments may include match play, drills, and performance evaluations to gauge the players’ improvement and adjust the training program accordingly.
5) Tournament Participation:
5) Tournament Participation:
Tournament Participation: As the players progress and gain sufficient skills, the program may offer opportunities for participation in local tournaments appropriate for their age group. This helps expose the players to competitive play and encourages further development of their tennis skills.
6) Parental Involvement:
6) Parental Involvement:
Parental Involvement: The program recognises the importance of parental support and involvement in the child’s tennis journey. Parents are encouraged to participate in informational sessions, attend matches and training sessions, and collaborate with coaches to ensure a holistic approach to player development. We have our own programme “Parents Area” where content can be accessed at any time via the app google classroom.
The ACES pathway talent id programme aims to identify and nurture young tennis talents, providing them with the basic foundations of the game and parent/ player resources needed to pursue a successful junior tennis journey while promoting a love for the sport at an early age.
All of our U8 programme is indoors using sponge balls to fast track development and U9 programme is outside using orange stage balls on a reduced court size for the age and stage of player.
Our monthly subscription is £35 and this is for 1 hour a week ACES group session, indoors with our lead ACES coaches and their teams for 47 weeks of the year.
If you’d like to sign up to and try out our ACES Pathway on a free 2 week trial please register your interest by emailing Aces@nationaltennis.org.uk