Hot Shots Red stage
Red is the Swisse Hot Shots Tennis stage for kids aged 5–8+. Through fun games and activities, children develop key tennis skills such as rallying.
The equipment is scaled to the player. Kids use softer, larger red balls and 19–23 inch racquets, on scaled courts and nets. The ball is easier to control, the racquet is easier to swing, and the court is a size they can cover.
What changes at Red
Blue is about general movement in an open space. Red is where those skills turn into tennis. Rallying — hitting the ball back and forth — becomes something kids can practise inside a game, not as a drill they have to get perfect first.
Softer, larger red balls travel more slowly and sit up, so children have time to get ready.
19–23 inch racquets match smaller hands and shorter swings.
Scaled courts and nets mean a child can reach the ball and play a point without being lost on a full-size court.
What kids get from Red
Kids keep learning through play. They stay active, build confidence and make friends, while the games start to look and feel like tennis. Coaches guide the session, and no prior experience is required to join the program.
Where Red sits in the pathway
Hot Shots has four stages: Blue (3–5+), Red (5–8+), Orange (8–10+) and Green (10+). After Red, Orange introduces a 50 per cent compression orange ball and more focus on tactics, singles, doubles, teamwork and respect.
Frequently asked questions
What ball and racquet does Red use?
Softer, larger red balls, and racquets that are 19–23 inches, on scaled courts and nets.
What skills does Red develop?
Key tennis skills such as rallying, learned through fun games and activities.
Can my child start at Red if they have never played?
Yes. No experience is needed. Coaches guide kids through games that develop skills, social interaction and confidence. Ask the club which stage matches your child.