Tennis Instructor

Performs responsible work providing tennis instruction and leading tennis clinics, lessons, practices, matches, and related recreational programs for participants of various ages and skill levels. Promotes tennis skill development, sportsmanship, safety, and enjoyment of the sport. Work is performed under the general supervision of the appropriate Recreation supervisor.

Distinguishing Features of the Class

An employee in this class provides instruction in the fundamentals, techniques, rules, and strategies of tennis to children, youth, and adults. The employee plans and conducts individual and group lessons, clinics, practices, matches, and other tennis activities. Work requires the ability to demonstrate tennis skills, provide appropriate instruction and feedback, communicate effectively with participants and parents or guardians, and maintain a safe and positive recreational environment. The employee exercises independent judgment in adapting instruction and activities to accommodate differences in age, experience, and skill level. Work may be performed indoors or outdoors and may include evening hours.

Plans and conducts tennis clinics, lessons, practices, matches, and other tennis-related programs and activities.

Provides individual and group instruction to children, youth, teens, and adults with varying levels of tennis experience and ability.

Teaches and demonstrates proper tennis fundamentals, including strokes, footwork, serving, positioning, scoring, rules, and game strategy.

Evaluates participant skill levels and adjusts instruction and activities to promote individual skill development.

Provides constructive instruction, feedback, encouragement, and motivation to participants.

Leads drills, games, practice activities, matches, tournaments, and other tennis events.

Promotes good sportsmanship, appropriate conduct, teamwork, and respect among participants.

Supervises participants and follows established safety procedures and facility rules.

Communicates effectively with participants, parents or guardians, coworkers, and the public.

Assists with the setup, organization, and breakdown of tennis courts, equipment, and program areas.

Inspects tennis equipment and program areas and reports safety, maintenance, or equipment concerns to the appropriate supervisor.

Maintains attendance records and other program information as required.

Assists with special events, tournaments, and other Recreation Department programs as assigned.

Performs related tasks as required.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

Thorough knowledge of the rules, fundamentals, techniques, and strategies of tennis.

Knowledge of appropriate methods and techniques for teaching tennis to individuals with varying ages and skill levels.

Skill in demonstrating and teaching proper tennis techniques and fundamentals.

Ability to effectively lead individual and group tennis instruction.

Ability to communicate clearly and effectively with children and adults.

Ability to provide constructive feedback and encouragement.

Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with participants, parents or guardians, coworkers, and the public.

Ability to maintain a safe, positive, and appropriate environment for participants.

Ability to recognize and respond appropriately to safety concerns and participant needs.

Ability to work independently and exercise sound judgment within established guidelines.

Ability to follow oral and written instructions, policies, procedures, and safety requirements.

Desirable Training and Experience

Previous experience playing, coaching, teaching, or instructing tennis is preferred. High school tennis playing experience and/or competitive tournament or match-play experience preferred. NTRP rating of 4.0 or higher preferred. USTA Level I coaching certification or comparable tennis coaching certification recommended. An equivalent combination of education, training, tennis playing experience, coaching experience, and demonstrated knowledge of tennis may be considered.

Special Requirements

Must be able to work 10-20 hours per week

Must be able to work occasional evenings (Monday-Thursday)

Must be able to communicate effectively with children and adults

This position is budgeted for and restricted to working hour of less than 1,000 hours per calendar year. 

Must be physically able to demonstrate tennis techniques and participate in tennis-related activities as necessary to perform the essential functions of the position. Work requires the occasional exertion of up to 10 pounds of force; frequent standing, walking, and use of hands to finger, handle, or feel; and occasional climbing or balancing, stooping, kneeling, crouching, crawling, reaching with hands and arms, pushing or pulling, and lifting. The employee must possess visual abilities necessary to observe participants and perform tennis activities, including depth perception, color perception, and peripheral vision. Vocal communication is required for expressing or exchanging ideas by means of the spoken word, and hearing is required to perceive information at normal spoken-word levels. Work may be performed outdoors and may involve exposure to varying weather conditions, including heat and sun, as well as moderate noise levels associated with recreational facilities.