In junior tennis, there’s no substitute for match play. Starting early—around ages 10 to 12—can make a huge difference in a young player’s development. Playing Universal Tennis Rating (UTR) matches, alongside USTA events, offers juniors the chance to grow their skills, gain confidence, and prepare for important milestones like high school tryouts. But what happens if they skip these crucial opportunities? Let’s dive in.

Building a Competitive Edge

When kids start playing matches early, they begin to experience the thrill and challenges of competition. UTR matches are especially unique because they give players the chance to compete against a wide range of opponents, regardless of age or skill level. This helps juniors adapt to different playing styles, manage pressure, and sharpen their analytical and critical thinking skills. These are lessons you can’t fully replicate in practice.

The Power of Combining UTR and USTA Events

USTA tournaments are fantastic for gaining exposure and climbing the ranks, but they often involve tougher entry requirements and fewer matches per event. UTR matches, on the other hand, are accessible and frequent, offering players the chance to compete regularly and gain confidence. By mixing UTR and USTA events, young players can balance quality and quantity in their match play—building their skills while still aiming for prestigious milestones.

High School Tryouts: The Ultimate Test

When it comes to high school tennis, match experience can be the deciding factor. Coaches aren’t just looking for kids with great strokes—they want players who can stay calm under pressure, think on their feet, and understand the flow of a match. Juniors who’ve been competing in UTR and USTA matches from an early age have already developed these skills. They know how to handle the intensity of tryouts, giving them a real edge.

The Risks of Skipping Matches

Without match play, even the most technically skilled players can struggle. Match play teaches resilience and mental toughness—the ability to bounce back after a bad point or a tough loss. Players who skip matches often find themselves overwhelmed when it’s time to compete for a high school spot or in other critical moments. The pressure can be too much when they haven’t faced it before.

The Takeaway

Starting UTR matches early and combining them with USTA events is one of the best ways to help juniors grow as players and prepare for what lies ahead. Match play isn’t just about winning; it’s about learning, growing, and developing the mental and emotional skills that make a player truly great.

Encourage your young athlete to get on the court, face those challenges, and enjoy the journey—because that’s where the magic happens.

By Ivan Krcelic,

Director of Tennis-Prime Academy