Why your child should play USTA

by Drake Hernandez June 7, 2023

If your child has aspirations of playing college tennis, then playing in USTA tournaments should be a top priority. USTA tournaments offer a range of benefits that can help young players develop their skills, gain valuable experience, and improve their chances of being recruited by college coaches.

Here are some of the reasons why it is important for kids to play USTA tournaments if they want to play college tennis:

1. Exposure to High-Level Competition

USTA tournaments attract some of the best young players from around the country, providing a unique opportunity for kids to test their skills against top-level competition. Playing against high-level opponents can help kids develop their game and learn how to handle pressure situations.

2. Opportunities to Earn UTR Points

The Universal Tennis Rating (UTR) is a system used by college coaches to evaluate the skill level of prospective recruits. Playing in USTA tournaments can help kids earn UTR points, which can improve their ranking and increase their visibility to college coaches.

3. Chance to Learn From Experienced Coaches

USTA tournaments often have experienced coaches in attendance who can offer advice and guidance to young players. These coaches may be able to identify areas where a player needs improvement and offer specific drills or strategies to help them develop their game.

4. Opportunity to Develop Mental Toughness

Playing in USTA tournaments can be a mentally challenging experience, as players must learn to cope with the pressure of competition and the ups and downs of individual matches. Developing mental toughness is a key skill for any athlete, and playing in USTA tournaments can help young players develop this trait.

5. Networking Opportunities

USTA tournaments provide a unique opportunity for young players to network with coaches, players, and other members of the tennis community. Building these connections can be invaluable for players who are looking to gain exposure, receive advice, or make new contacts.

In summary, playing in USTA tournaments is a vital step for kids who want to play college tennis. These tournaments provide a range of benefits, including exposure to high-level competition, opportunities to earn UTR points, chances to learn from experienced coaches, opportunities to develop mental toughness, and networking opportunities. By participating in USTA tournaments, young players can develop their skills and improve their chances of achieving their college tennis goals.