Why Open Court?
Open Court offers a relaxed, social tennis experience that helps your club attract both new and returning players — all about good vibes, casual hits, and building connections on and off the court.
What if your club could offer a flexible, easy-to-find option that requires no upfront membership? A simple pay-as-you-play experience? One that’s welcoming and inclusive, where people can come with friends or meet new ones, and enjoy more than just tennis — think music, food, and good vibes. With fun, social formats designed to ease players back into the game, Open Court Sessions deliver exactly that.
Open Court Sessions are designed to:
- Reintroduce adults who haven’t played in a while
- Provide a short, social, and active option for time-poor people
- Create a low-pressure environment where anyone can join in
- Offer a steppingstone into other club activities and memberships
By offering Open Court, your club can grow its community, attract a new generation of players, and create a fun, low-barrier entry point into the sport.
Where Open Court Fits In Your Club
- As a pathway for new players after Love Tennis or your club open day
- Looking for a way to link with a nearby college or school? It's a flexible, fun way to offer casual tennis sessions that suit young people’s busy lifestyles.
The landscape of tennis engagement is evolving.
So what are players looking for?
-
An easy, online entry point
-
No membership pressure — just pay-as-you-play
-
A fun, welcoming, and inclusive atmosphere
-
A chance to bring friends or meet new people
-
Music, food, and social vibes — not just tennis
-
Easy, engaging formats to help ease back into the game
Open Court is tailored for the 15–35 age group but is open to anyone who’s new to tennis or hasn’t played in a while. It’s inclusive, flexible, and encourages people to come solo, with friends, or bring the whānau.
Blending tennis with music, food, drinks, and a relaxed vibe, the programme creates a social and inclusive environment where participants feel comfortable from the moment they arrive.
Each session is built around a series of rotating court stations, using modified equipment and formats to ensure the game is accessible and enjoyable for everyone — no matter their skill level or experience. There’s no need for formal coaching. Instead, friendly, outgoing hosts guide the session, making sure players feel at ease, understand the format, and most importantly — have fun.
Off-court social time is a key part of the experience, offering opportunities for clubs to connect with participants, build relationships, and promote other offerings like court hire, Cardio Tennis, or future Open Court sessions.
Open Court main page is in the Club Toolkit.
The way people engage with tennis is evolving.
Today’s players are looking for flexible, social experiences that fit around their lifestyles and busy schedules. Traditional membership models don’t always meet these needs, especially for adults who want to play casually without long-term commitment.
Open Court Pilot Overview
Contact Ali for more information on setting up Open Court Sessions at your club.