Advanced Competitive Programs
Liberty's Junior Competitive Program started in 1973 and has become a model for junior tennis throughout the United States. The goal of the program is to help players develop their skills in a challenging yet supportive environment. The Junior Competitive Program has been a positive life experience for many of its participants. At the highest level there have been state high school champions, nationally ranked players and many have gone on to play at a collegiate level.
There are four levels in this program which include the Jr. Competitive 1, Jr. Competitive 2, Varsity Training, and Tournament Players Groups, along with the option of participating in Tournament Training Programs during the summer months. To join one of these groups, players must 'qualify' by having reached a certain tennis skill level. Jr. Competitive 1 is available for nonmembers, while Jr. Competitive 2, Varsity Training, and Tournament Players Groups require Liberty membership.
Enroll by session, by invitation only. To schedule an evaluation or for more information, please Contact Paul Ripley at (734) 665-3738 ext. 116.
Jr. Competitive 1
Player must have a moderate consistency in serving and the ability to sustain a groundstroke rally. Groundstroke technique at this level begins to incorporate topspin. The ability to play at the net and to volley, and hit an overhead smash is at a very basic level.
Jr. Competitive 2
Player must have ability to have an extended rally with groundstrokes and the confidence to place the ball both cross-court and down the line. More power, especially on the forehand, further defines this level of player. The ability to move more effectively and get to more balls allows the player to have more effective match results. Serving is quite consistent and there is refinement in their skills around the net.
Varsity Training
Player must have considerable competitive experience and is capable of winning points from the baseline and at the net. Serving becomes more accurate, and much more powerful. This player is already playing on a high school team, or will be when appropriate age is reached. In the Varsity Training Group there becomes a mastery of topspin and slice on the groundstrokes along with an understanding of how to use spin on the serve.
Tournament Players
A truly accomplished player who has considerable competitive experience and in most cases has either a district sectional or national ranking. Years of training and dedication define this level of player. Many players in the Tournament Players Group have become state high school singles and doubles champions. Private instruction complements this group to personalize styles of play. Most of these players continue on to play collegiate tennis.