ITF Serve, Rally, Score (SRS) Philosophy

The core idea is to change the way beginners are taught, moving away from long, isolated technical drills to getting them to play points as soon as possible.

ELEMENT

SERVE
RALLY
SCORE

GOAL

Initiate play successfully.

Exchange the ball back and forth consistently.

WHAT IT MEANS IN PRACTICE?

Beginners are taught a simplified serve motion and/or serve from a closer distance.

This is made possible by using modified equipment that slows the game down.

Utilizing simple scoring and competition formats so players can experience the fun of match play from the first lesson.

ITF Serve, Rally, Score (SRS) Philosophy

The core idea is to change the way beginners are taught, moving away from long, isolated technical drills to getting them to play points as soon as possible.

BALL STAGE	COLOR	SPEED/COMPRESSION	COURT SIZE	TYPICAL USE
Stage 1	Red	75% slower than a standard yellow ball.	Small, 36-foot court.	Youngest beginners (usually 8 & under) or adult total beginners.
Stage 2	Orange	50% slower than a standard yellow ball.	Medium, 60-foot court.	Developing junior players (usually 9–10) or adult intermediate beginners.
Stage 3	Green	25% slower than a standard yellow ball.	Full court.	Advanced juniors (usually 10 & under competitive) or adults transitioning to the yellow ball.
Stage 4	Yellow	Standard ball.	Full court (78 feet).	Standard competitive play.