Real Tennis

What is it?
An ancient game originally played with the hand, now with asymmetric wooden rackets in indoor courts, which contain a number of unusual features. All the balls are handmade. There are currently 26 courts in the British Isles of which the oldest is Falkland Palace in Scotland.

Safety Message
Participants should receive instruction from a qualified professional before playing the game.

Ideas/Aims
To develop knowledge and basic skills in order to participate effectively in the game.
To do this you should:
• Have knowledge of court characteristics, equipment and historical development.
• Know basic rules, etiquette and scoring.
• Have an understanding of basic tactics and positional play in singles and doubles.
• Understand the principles underlying the grip, footwork and stroke production.
• Be able to deliver different types of service.
• Be able to return service and rally by developing the following strokes:
(a) The basic floor shot (forehand and backhand)
(b) The volley (forehand and backhand)
(c) Playing off the back wall
(d) Playing off the sidewalls and tambour
• Have an awareness of safety and fitness considerations.
• Participate in friendly and competitive games.
• Participate in club tournaments and/or inter-club matches.
• Understand handicaps and the handicap system (singles and doubles).
• Develop knowledge of international events and players.

Review/Assessment
Tournaments both open and handicap, for men and women of all ages are held regularly throughout the season. There are no specific awards for amateur players, professionals, however, may take the Basic Certificate which has three sections: Equipment, Marking and Coaching, and an Advanced Certificate which also has three sections: Refereeing, Coaching and Business and Sports Management. The assessor should review a participant's performance against targets set, and their knowledge of the game.

Governing Body/Organisation
The Tennis and Rackets Association, c/o The Queen's Club, Palliser Road, London, W14 9EQ.
Tel: 020 7386 3447, Fax: 020 7385 7424

The Ladies Real Tennis Association is a corporate member of the Tennis and Rackets Association and may be contacted c/o Seacourt Tennis Club, Victoria Avenue, Hayling Island, Hampshire, PO11 9AJ