Welcome to PNW Tennis Titans! Whether you are picking up a racquet for the first time or returning to the game, this guide will help you prepare. Please read it before purchasing equipment. I have equipment for you to try and would much rather help you find what works before you spend money.

Before Your First Lesson

Please do not buy a racquet or tennis balls before your first lesson. I provide demo racquets and age-appropriate balls so we can find the right equipment for you. Bring water, sunscreen and comfortable athletic clothing. If you already own tennis shoes, bring them so we can check the fit and suitability

Choosing Your Equipment

Tennis racquets

Please do not purchase a racquet yet! I have a wide range of demo racquets that I would like you to try before you commit. Finding the right racquet and strings makes a tremendous difference in enjoying the game. Avoid purchasing inexpensive, pre-strung recreational racquets without checking with me first; string quality and tension are important.

Tennis shoes

Properly fitted tennis shoes are essential for lateral movement, quick stops and changes of direction. I recommend visiting Sturtevant’s and asking for Mischelle, or visiting Nordstrom for fitting assistance. Please confirm store staff availability before visiting.

Reserve tennis shoes for the tennis court; they may also work on a basketball court if the soles are suitable. For growing children, leave reasonable growing room, but do not buy shoes so large that their feet slide or lose lateral support. Check the fit carefully rather than relying only on the labeled size.

For gently used sports equipment, consider Superior Seconds on Front Street in Issaquah, which carries consignment sporting goods. Check current inventory and store details before visiting.

Tennis balls

Ages 6–8: Orange balls - Slower, lower-compression balls for developing control and confidence.

Ages 9–11: Green-dot balls - A transition toward standard balls.

Older juniors and adults: Standard yellow balls - Used when appropriate for the player’s experience and ability.

Recommended standard yellow balls

Wilson Triniti - My preferred ball for colder-weather play. Available by the can or by the case on Amazon or at Sturtevant’s in Bellevue. Check availability before purchasing.

Penn Championship Extra Duty - My recommendation for regular play. Purchase by the case at Costco or by the can on Amazon. Availability may vary.

Please do not purchase tennis balls until after your first lesson. I will recommend the appropriate type for home practice.

Your Tennis Bag Checklist

Youth players selected for PNW Tennis Titans receive a drawstring tennis bag. I encourage players to pack their own bag before every lesson.

  • Tennis racquet

  • Properly fitted tennis shoes

  • Sunscreen

  • Refillable water bottle

  • Snack in case of emergency

  • Tennis journal and pen (provided by me)

  • Tennis visor (available through me if needed)

  • Extra socks for days with multiple matches

  • Tennis grip trainer (available through me or by recommended purchase link)

I prefer tennis visors to baseball caps, especially in summer, because full caps can trap heat. Tennis journals help players record what they learn, set goals and track progress. Grip trainers help beginners reinforce correct hand placement.

Exercises You Can Do at Home

You do not need a court to improve! Short, consistent practice sessions help build coordination, footwork and confidence. Choose a safe, open area and use an age-appropriate ball and racquet.

100 downward bounces

Using your racquet, bounce the ball down toward the ground 100 times. Start with smaller sets and work toward 100 controlled bounces.

100 upward bounces

Bounce the ball upward on your racquet strings 100 times, keeping the racquet face steady. Break the goal into manageable sets as needed.

Quick feet: ladder or zigzag cones

Use an agility ladder for short, quick steps. Or place cones in a zigzag pattern and move from cone to cone using small adjustment steps. Keep facing the same direction as you rotate through the cones rather than turning your body at every cone.

Mirror strokes

Practice your forehand and backhand strokes in front of a mirror. Move slowly and focus on the grip, preparation and follow-through demonstrated in your lesson. Make sure you have enough