Tennis Tournaments: What, When, and How to Get Involved

If you love swinging a racket and want a chance to test your skills, tennis tournaments are the perfect playground. Whether you’re a junior looking for your first match or an adult hoping to compete locally, there’s a tournament that fits your level and schedule.

Finding the Right Tournament for You

The first step is to locate events in your area. Start with the Guildford Ultimate Sports Hub calendar – it lists every registered tournament within a 30‑mile radius. You can also check the LTA (Lawn Tennis Association) website, community centre notice boards, and social media groups. Look for keywords like "open draw," "age group," or "skill level" in the title. If the description mentions "U12" or "U18" you know it’s for younger players; "senior" or "adult" points to adult categories.

Most tournaments have a registration deadline about two weeks before the start date. Mark it on your phone, because spots fill up fast, especially for popular summer events. Some clubs even let you sign up on the day if space remains, but don’t count on it.

Signing Up and Preparing

Registration usually requires a small fee – think £10‑£20 – which covers court rental, officials, and sometimes a prize fund. You’ll need to provide your name, contact details, and a proof of rating (if you have one). If you don’t have a rating, many events have an "unrated" or "open" section where you can still compete.

Once you’re in, start preparing early. A simple two‑hour practice routine three times a week works wonders: warm‑up, rally drills, and a short match simulation. Focus on your serve – a reliable first serve can win you cheap points. Also, practice returning both fast and spin‑heavy serves, because tournament draws often mix playing styles.

Don’t forget the mental side. Arrive at the venue 30 minutes early, stretch, and visualize a few good points. A calm mind helps you stay focused when the crowd gets louder.

On the day of the tournament, bring a water bottle, a towel, a spare racket, and a set of fresh strings if you think you need them. Most clubs provide seating for players, but having a small snack can keep your energy up between matches.

After each match, take a minute to jot down what worked and what didn’t. This quick note‑taking turns every game into a learning chance, and you’ll see improvement faster than guessing.

Finally, enjoy the experience. Tennis tournaments are as much about meeting fellow players as they are about competition. Share a laugh after a close set, exchange contact info, and you might find a regular doubles partner for the next event.

Ready to jump in? Head over to the Guildford Ultimate Sports Hub, filter the calendar by "tennis," pick a date that suits you, and hit that "Register" button. Good luck, and see you on the court!