Intro to Tennis: Net Generation
Whether your child is picking up a racquet for the first time or showcasing early promise, USTA Northern California offers a robust pathway to lay the foundation for a lifelong love of tennis. Net Generation is the first step in USTA youth tennis and is designed for kids ages 5 to 18!
Net Generation
Learn more about Net Generation and its benefits by clicking the button below.
PERSONALIZATION
Smaller courts, various-sized racquets, and slower-moving balls allow kids to learn at their own speed, making tennis enjoyable and personalized.
SPOTLIGHT ON PLAY
We focus on creating a fun, positive, and engaging atmosphere, prioritizing the joy of playing over wins and losses.
BUILD LIFELONG
SKILLS
Tennis isn't just a game; it's a platform for building skills both on and off the court—for a lifetime.
Junior Tennis Levels: Red, Orange, Green & Yellow Ball
USTA NorCal offers Red, Orange, Green and Yellow ball levels of tennis (often referred to as ROGY) to help youth develop their game properly. Each color ball introduces players to the next level of tennis, progressing from Red to Yellow ball, which is the standard tennis ball and court size. The ROGY system uses low-compression balls, smaller racquets and smaller courts that allow beginner players to be successful right away on the court based on their age, physical size and ability and to develop better technical and point-playing skills. Each stage is designed with your child’s age and skill level in mind, ensuring that every swing is perfectly suited to their unique abilities.
The tennis journey starts with Red ball for players of all ages and abilities. CLICK HERE for more about the player competencies.
Players aged 9-11 years old are recommended to play in Green ball programs. CLICK HERE for more about the player competencies.
Players aged 7-9 years old are recommended to play in Orange ball programs. CLICK HERE for more about the player competencies.
The Net Generation
Pathway
Built on the American Development Model (ADM), the Net Generation pathway allows parents and their young players to easily navigate the three key stages of growth within USTA and USTA NorCal tennis, starting with introductory Team Challenges, progressing to WTN Match Play, intermediate or advanced Junior Team Tennis, Junior Circuits (pre-tournaments) and Junior Tournaments.
The Net Generation Junior Pathway doesn't follow a strict linear path. Players have the flexibility to participate in Junior Team Tennis or Junior Circuit events concurrently with their participation in Junior Tournaments. It's a dynamic approach that allows young athletes to explore various avenues within the pathway simultaneously.
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As part of the Net Generation Pathway, players ages 10 and under can participate in the following programs:
Team Challenges mark the first step in the tennis journey for children of all ages. This program is designed to introduce youth to tennis competition within a low-pressure, team environment with minimal time commitment. These events prioritize positive teamwork over winning and losing, creating an environment where players can flourish.
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The emphasis is on creating a fun and memorable experience for players.
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Single-day events, approximately 60-90 minutes.
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The focus is on play, not results.
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Offered in Red, Orange, and Green ball.
Learn more about Team Challenges and find one in your area using the button below.-
Junior Team Tennis (JTT) offers a fun and recreational team format for youth aged 7 to 18. Boys and girls of all levels play singles, doubles and mixed doubles against local teams, encouraging match-play experience. USTA NorCal provides JTT opportunities for Orange, Green and Yellow ball tennis through a season-based format, with teams competing weekly either at their home facility or by traveling to other venues. For players ages 10 and under, they will receive PlayTracker points for every USTA JTT event they participate in.
Junior Circuits are the ideal progression for youth players transitioning toward tournament play. These fun events provide a platform for player skill development through level-based play and offer providers the opportunity to expose youth to the competitive world of tennis as players grow in their journeys. Beyond the court, participants learn and exemplify good sportsmanship, showcasing the true spirit of tennis.
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Suitable for junior players of all ages in Orange, Green or Yellow ball tennis at an intermediate to advanced level.
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Single events spanning up to half a day for participation in 2 to 4 matches.
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Uses a non-elimination, round-robin draw format for individual match experience.
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Focus on player skill development through level-based play in a competitive environment.
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Net Generation PlayTracker
The Net Generation PlayTracker is for players aged 5-10 and their parents to track progress at USTA competitive events, all in one place while earning digital incentives along the way.
COLLECT
POINTS
Players collect points from USTA Team Challenges, Junior Team Tennis and Junior Circuit events.
TRACK
PROGRESS
Monitor your PlayTracker points and track your progress on usta.com under the Family tab in your account profile.
GRADUATE TO
TOURNAMENTS
Upon graduation from the Net Generation PlayTracker, players can start participating in sanctioned Junior Tournaments or upon reaching a specific point threshold within Green ball.
Junior
Tournaments
Embark on your journey into competitive tennis with USTA Northern California Junior Tournaments. It's your chance to step onto the court, test your skills and to learn from and play against the best players while forming lasting connections. Junior Tournaments are designed for players who have completed the Net Generation PlayTracker, turned 11, or have some competitive match play experience. Explore the different Junior Tournament levels available and discover where you fit into the competition.
COMPETE WITH THE BEST
Go head-to-head with top talents, challenging yourself to elevate your game. Every match is a chance to enhance your skills, contributing to your overall development.
BUILD FRIENDSHIPS
Connect with your peers, fostering friendships on and off the court.
Play Junior Tournaments
FOR ALL LEVELS
Whether you're a rising star or beginning your competition journey, find the perfect tournament to match your skill level and age group.
NATIONWIDE RANKING
Compete locally, climb the ranks and make your mark on the national stage with USTA's ranking system.
Levels of Tournament Competition:
The USTA tournament structure comprises seven levels (Level 7 to Level 1), catering to a range of skill levels from intermediate to advanced players. The national ranking system ensures a uniform distribution of points across the country. USTA NorCal sanctions Sectional Level 3-7, while National Level 1-3 events are part of the USTA National Junior Schedule, sanctioned by the USTA National office.
Age Divisions & Eligibility
USTA NorCal tournaments are offered in the 12 and under, 14 and under, 16 and under and 18 and under divisions. Players become ineligible to play in an age division on the first day of their birthday month the year they turn 11, 13, 15, 17 or 19.
Rankings
Stay on top of your game with our ranking levels in the different types of tournaments offered. For a breakdown of ranking points, click here.
World Tennis Number (WTN)
In addition to your USTA ranking, the International Tennis Federation (ITF) World Tennis Number (WTN) provides a global standard for players. Your WTN rating is on a 40-1 scale, with 40 being a beginner player and 1 being an elite professional. This scale is for all players regardless of age, gender or ability. If you've played a USTA match within the last 5+ years, either singles or doubles, you have an ITF World Tennis Number.
The USTA uses a Points Per Round Combined Ranking System (PPR) to annually rank junior players and publish weekly National Standings Lists. Ranking Points are earned by winning singles and doubles matches at various types of USTA national tournaments, sectional tournaments and designated ITF tournaments.
Tournament Rules
Stay in the know! The USTA and USTA NorCal have published rules and regulations to serve as your go-to guide for matches without officials. Click the links below to learn more. Reminder: USTA Regulations strictly prohibit players from entering two tournaments with overlapping dates by one or more days unless they have prior written consent from both Tournament Committees. Fair play matters.
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Play: Intermediate. Following the USTA Junior Pathway, this is an entry-level tournament, and is the next step after graduating from the Net Generation PlayTracker.
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Event Duration: 1-day tournaments with singles, doubles and mixed doubles open to all players.
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Play: Intermediate
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Event Duration: 2-day tournaments with singles, doubles and mixed doubles open to all players.
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Play: High-Intermediate/Advanced
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Event Duration: 3-day tournaments with singles, doubles and mixed doubles open to all players unless designated as closed in the title.
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Play: Advanced
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Event Duration: 4-day tournaments with singles, doubles and mixed doubles open to all players unless designated as closed in the title.
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Play: Advanced
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Event Duration: 2 days or more tournaments with singles, doubles and mixed doubles. Section Level 3’s are closed Sectional Championships and players are required to be residents of USTA NorCal. National Level 3’s are open to any USTA member that meets the age and gender requirements.
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Play: Advanced
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Event Duration: 3-days or more National events.
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Play: High-Advanced
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Event Duration: 4-day or more National events (i.e. National Championships, National team events and selected ITF events).
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Good Sports Make Sports Great
Have you been part of a recent junior tennis event and witnessed outstanding sportsmanship? Nominate a player who went above and beyond to make your tennis experience memorable! At the end of each quarter, USTA NorCal will randomly select 4 winners to receive a $50 gift card. Your nominations may also contribute to selecting Sportsmanship recipients for USTA NorCal's annual Junior Awards.
Let's celebrate the spirit of fair play in junior tennis!
Junior Team
Tennis
Ignite the team spirit in tennis! Junior Team Tennis (JTT) is a specially designed program for 7 to 18-year-olds, uniting players on a team to conquer the game against local rivals. JTT provides an exciting, safe and supportive team environment that not only challenges your skills but also creates memorable moments of growth and development as a player and team. It's not just about winning; it's about enjoying the journey, connecting with your teammates and having a blast on the court.
What to Expect
USTA NorCal offers JTT leagues in two seasons: Spring and Fall, each spanning approximately 8 weeks. Teams consisting of at least 4 players go head-to-head with similarly skilled teams in their local region weekly, either at their home courts or on the road.
2025 Seasons
We offer two seasons: Spring and Fall. Each season lasts approximately 8 weeks. Teams compete on a weekly basis - either playing at their home facility or traveling to another facility to play their matches.
Spring 2025:
Check out the area sheets below for match formats and other information.
Sacramento:
March 8-May 3
First match: March 8
Final Playoff Match: May 3
Central Valley, East Bay/Tri-Valley, San Francisco, Santa Cruz/Monterey, South Bay/Peninsula:
March 9-May 4
First match: March 9
Final Playoff Match: May 4
Marin:
March 14-May 9
First match: March 14
Final Playoff Match: May 9
Spring Sectionals:
May 17-18 at Mission Hills Racquet & Swim Club in Fremont
2025 JTT rules and regulations can be found HERE.
Why Play JTT?
IMPROVE
Develop skills in a supportive, yet competitive, environment.
BUILD FRIENDSHIPS
Build lasting friendships with fellow players.
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HAVE FUN!
Experience the fun of team competition.
Ready to play? Here's how to get started:
Once you get permission to join a team, follow the steps below to secure your spot. Need a team? We can connect you with teams looking for players.
We know many players are looking for teams and spots might be tight. If you’re a parent, why not become a team captain? All you need are two courts and four players to get started. Check out the Captain a Team section below for more info.
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SIGN UP
Sign up for your free USTA Junior Membership now by clicking here or calling Customer Care at 1-800-990-8782.
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REGISTER VIA TENNISLINK
Once your team captain signs the team up, they'll be given a Team ID and player registration instructions. That team ID is your magic number to register.
For a step-by-step guide on registering via TennisLink to kickstart your JTT journey, follow our handy guide and see our JTT FAQ.
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SUBMIT WAIVER
Submit the mandatory USTA NorCal waiver here. Your player's USTA number is your golden ticket!
Questions?
We're here to help. Send us an email at jrteamtennis@norcal.usta.com
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JTT Rule Refresher: Click here to access the 2024 JTT Regulations.
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Know The Code: All JTT players are expected to be familiar with The Code, which can be found in Friend at Court.
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ITF World Tennis Number (WTN): Your Green and Yellow Ball results count for more than just wins – they contribute to the ITF World Tennis Number (WTN). Explore more about WTN here, and check out the Provider Guide to enhance your program. WTN is the official ratings system of JTT.
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Player's WTN Rating: Curious about a player's WTN rating or designated ball color level? Search here.
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Captain a JTT Team
If you have the drive to lead and inspire, we encourage you to take this golden opportunity to captain a JTT team. We welcome coaches, volunteers, and parents alike– no specific tennis certifications needed! This is your chance to be a difference-maker.
If you or someone you know is interested in starting a JTT team in your area, take the first step by completing the Interested JTT Captain Form. Please note, that all captains are required to undergo Safe Play approval for coaching or assisting with a JTT team.
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Player
Development
USTA Northern California is dedicated to the advancement of youth tennis, and our Player Development program is at the heart of this commitment. Designed to provide a comprehensive pathway, our program guides junior players from the earliest stages of entry-level tennis through the collegiate and professional levels.
In addition to Player Development opportunities on a national level, USTA NorCal provides training opportunities locally throughout the year. The ultimate goal is to empower players and parents to succeed at every pivotal step of the tennis journey. Are you looking to coach at a Player Development camp or receive information from our team? Click here for more information.
Player Development Events
ELEVATE YOUR GAME.
Team NorCal workouts are a sectional training program for the top junior players, hosted for three age divisions: 10 & Under (yellow ball), 14 & Under, and 18 & Under. Workouts feature top NorCal coaches, encouraging collaboration and a high level of instruction.
The 10 & Under group will be selected based on age and their ranking on the BG12s National Standings List (NSL). The 14 & Under and 18 & Under groups will be selected based on singles WTN. Players will be selected and invited directly from the NSL/WTN list.
Early Development Camps (EDCs) recruit and retain the most promising NorCal Net Generation athletes ages 7-10, while also providing a Junior Circuit for matchplay. The program is designed to provide an opportunity for the highest level of promising young players to get to know each other and train together in a controlled environment with very specific goals for Orange and Green Ball. The themes of training include Becoming an Expert Rallyer, Defending the Court, Net Dominator, Taking Control of the Point, The All Court Player and Becoming an Offensive Player.
USTA Sectional Camps are part of the National Player Development pathway for players ages 11-13. In NorCal, we offer two USTA Sectional Camps for 24 players from the NorCal section invited based on birth year, National Rank, WTN rating, and Coaches Commission selection. There will be one camp in the spring and one in the fall. National Camp opportunities are by invitation only, selected by the National Coaches and staff based on participation at the Sectional Camps, among other factors.
Player Development Partnerships
USTA NorCal members get an exclusive discount on Flow 255®, the mental fitness training method and platform from 2Mynds. Visit 2Mynds today and use your discount code 2m-ustanorcal during checkout! *discount code excludes personal coaching.
The Positive Coaching Alliance (PCA) mission is to change the culture of youth sports so that every child, regardless of social or economic circumstance, has access to a positive youth sports experience. USTA NorCal provides access to coach and parent education within its Player Development programs.
Certain educational support services are provided by Stanford Medicine Children’s Orthopedic and Sports Medicine Center. With five locations including Palo Alto, Sunnyvale, Burlingame, Pleasanton, and Pleasant Hill, our team of doctors, athletic trainers and physical therapists are experts at helping kids recover from injuries, reduce their risk of future injuries and optimize their performance. Call (844) 41-ORTHO to learn more.
Keep Your Tennis Journey Alive:
Transition from Tournaments to College Club Tennis
After junior tournaments, the journey doesn't stop—it's just beginning! Transition to our club Tennis On Campus program and continue playing competitive tennis in college. Enjoy the thrill of club matches, build lifelong friendships and keep your love for the game alive.
