Your First USTA Tournament: What to Expect and How to Prepare
Your child's first USTA tournament is a big milestone. It can feel overwhelming for both parents and players, but knowing what to expect takes a lot of the stress away. Here's a complete guide to make the experience a great one.
Before the Tournament
Registration
Tournaments are listed on the USTA website (usta.com) under your section. You'll need a USTA membership to register. Look for Level 7 or Level 8 events for a first tournament — these are local, lower-pressure events designed for developing players. Registration usually closes several days before the event, so plan ahead.
What to Pack
- At least 2 rackets (in case a string breaks)
- Water bottles — at least 2, filled and cold
- Snacks: bananas, granola bars, trail mix, sandwiches
- Sunscreen and a hat (even for indoor events, you may warm up outside)
- Extra shirt, socks, and wristbands
- A towel
- A light jacket or warm-up layer
- A chair or blanket for waiting between matches
Day of the Tournament
Check-In
Arrive at least 30 minutes before your scheduled match time. Find the tournament desk, check in, and confirm your court assignment. Most tournaments post draws at the desk or on a board near the courts.
Warm-Up
Players typically get 5-10 minutes of on-court warm-up with their opponent before the match begins. Use this time to hit some groundstrokes, a few volleys, and practice serves. This isn't the time to try to intimidate — it's a shared warm-up.
During the Match
Scoring and Line Calls
In junior tennis, players call their own lines. The rule is simple: if you're not sure whether a ball was in or out, it's in. Teach your child to make clear, honest calls. If there's a disagreement, players can ask for a line judge or tournament referee.
Coaching
USTA rules prohibit coaching during matches. Parents and coaches cannot give advice or signals from the sideline during play. This can be the hardest part for parents! You can cheer and encourage, but tactical coaching must wait until the match is over.
Changeovers and Breaks
Players switch sides after every odd game (after games 1, 3, 5, etc.). During changeovers, players can sit down, drink water, and towel off. There's also a set break of a few minutes between sets. Encourage your child to use these breaks to hydrate and refocus.
After the Match
Win or lose, players shake hands at the net and report the score to the tournament desk. This is a great time to reinforce sportsmanship. Win graciously, lose graciously. Ask your child what they learned rather than focusing on the score.
If your child wins, they'll play again — check the draw for their next match time. If they lose, many compass-draw events offer consolation matches so they still get more play time.
Tips for Parents
- Stay calm and positive — your child will mirror your energy
- Don't coach from the sideline — it's against the rules and adds pressure
- Focus on effort and attitude, not the scoreboard
- Let your child handle their own problems on court — it builds independence
- Celebrate the experience, regardless of the result
Most kids who have a positive first tournament experience want to come back for more. Your job as a parent is to make sure the day is fun, win or lose.