Frequently Ased Questions
Buddy:
“Coach Tanner… what if someone has NEVER played tennis?”
Tanner:
“That’s exactly what we’re here for.”
Buddy:
“What if they miss the ball?”
Tanner:
“Then we try again.”
Q: What does the program cost?
A: Tuition pricing is listed directly on your school’s enrollment page. Please select your school to view the current program tuition and schedule details. Also, be sure to ask about our Class Bundle Deals for discounts!
Q: When and where are the classes held?
A: Class locations, days, and times vary by program. We offer both on-campus classes at participating schools during the school day, as well as select off-campus locations. Please visit your specific enrollment page for the most accurate class schedule and location information.
Q: Does my child need a tennis racquet or any other equipment?
A: No equipment is needed! We provide everything your child will need for class. If you are interested in Buddy the Ball apparel, racquets, or accessories, we also offer great options on our website.
Q: How long is the session or season?
A: Our program operates on a month-to-month basis with a 2-month minimum commitment. After the initial 2 months, you may cancel at any time.
Q: What are the age ranges for the program?
A: Our curriculums are designed for children ages 3–9. Most of our school locations primarily serve 3-5-year-olds. If your child will be turning 3 soon, they are welcome to join as well.
Q: My child attends part-time and is not at school on the day tennis is offered. Can they still participate?
A: Absolutely! We have coordinated with the school, and families are welcome to bring their child specifically for tennis class if it works with their schedule.
Q: How do I cancel enrollment?
A: To cancel enrollment, please send a written cancellation request via email to (insert email address). We ask that cancellation requests be submitted prior to your next billing date.
Q: Can my child try a class before enrolling?
A: Depending on your school and class availability, we may be able to offer a trial class. Please contact us for current options. In the registration page, click ‘Yes, I’d like to trial this class’
Q: What happens if my child misses a class?
A: Because our programs take place directly at your child’s school, we are unable to offer make-up classes for individual absences, and credits are not provided for missed classes.
For our Tennis Tribe academy locations, we are able to offer a make-up class on another scheduled academy day, based on availability.
Q: What happens if a class is canceled?
A: If a class is unable to run due to weather, coach illness, or other unforeseen circumstances, we will either provide a rescheduled class or issue a single-class credit to the account.
Tuition is based on a 48-week program year, equating to four weeks of tuition per month. Months that include five class weeks help offset months with three class weeks; therefore, we do not prorate tuition for scheduled closures or variations in the monthly class schedule.
Q: Can I enroll mid-month?
A: Yes! Enrollment is open year-round at most locations, and tuition may be prorated depending on your start date.
Q: How do I know if class is canceled?
A: If a class is canceled due to weather, school closures, or unforeseen circumstances, families will be notified by email or text as soon as possible.
Class Experience
Q: What does a typical class look like?
A: Classes include warm-ups, coordination activities, tennis skill development, games, and confidence-building exercises designed specifically for young children.
Q: Is Buddy the Ball beginner-friendly?
A: Absolutely! Most children join with little or no tennis experience. Our curriculum is designed to introduce the game in a fun, encouraging, and age-appropriate way.
Q: Will my child actually learn tennis?
A: Yes! While we prioritize fun and confidence-building, children also learn real tennis fundamentals including footwork, hand-eye coordination, racquet skills, and basic gameplay concepts. Our color rankings and level-up testing occurs 4 times per year and is an effort to track and reward the progress and aptitude of our athletes while encouraging them to strive for further fun and improvement.
Q: How many children are in each class?
A: Class sizes vary by school, but we aim to maintain a safe and engaging coach-to-player ratio to ensure every child receives attention and encouragement.
Safety & Coaches
Q: Are coaches background checked?
A: Yes. All Buddy the Ball coaches complete background checks and training prior to working with children.
Q: Are the coaches experienced with young children?
A: Yes! Our coaches are specifically trained to work with preschool and elementary-aged children using positive coaching methods and age-appropriate instruction.
Q: What safety measures are in place during class?
A: Safety is our top priority. We use child-friendly equipment, structured class routines, and trained coaches to create a safe and supportive environment for every child.
Parent Communication
Q: Will I receive updates about my child’s progress?
A: Coaches regularly encourage and support player development during class, and we may share updates, photos, or milestone information throughout the season.
Q: How can I contact Buddy the Ball?
A: You can reach our team anytime through our Contact Us page or by emailing us directly at (contact@buddytheball.net)
Equipment & Apparel
Q: What type of equipment do you use?
A: We use age-appropriate tennis equipment including smaller racquets, low-compression balls, and beginner-friendly training tools designed specifically for young athletes.
Q: Can my child bring their own racquet?
A: Of course! Children are welcome to bring their own racquet if they would prefer to use it during class.
Growth & Advancement
Q: What happens after my child outgrows the beginner program?
A: We offer advancement opportunities through our Tennis Tribe Academy, private lessons, group training, events, and our Level Up development pathway.
Q: Does Buddy the Ball offer camps?
A: Yes! We offer seasonal camps filled with tennis, games, movement activities, and team-building fun.