🎾

Lesson 6 - Tactical Tournament Play

Technical Mastery & Tactics

•

Year 8

•

Tennis

•

Big Question

How can you exploit your opponent's weaknesses to win matches?

Learning Objectives

Demonstrate specific tactical awareness during competitive play
Apply strategic thinking to exploit opponent weaknesses and strengths
Umpire matches fairly and maintain excellent sportsmanship throughout tournament play

Key Outcomes

Students will participate in a competitive tennis tournament, applying tactics learned throughout the unit
Students will demonstrate the ability to identify and target opponent weaknesses
Students will show respect, fair play, and sportsmanship whilst competing and umpiring

Equipment & Resources Required

Tennis Rackets

1 per student (minimum 30)

Distribute at start, check for damage before use, collect at end

Alternative: Short tennis rackets for students needing lighter equipment

Tennis Balls

4-6 per court (minimum 24)

Place container of balls at each court, ensure proper bounce

Alternative: Foam tennis balls for students needing slower ball speed

Cones

20-30

Use to mark court boundaries, serving boxes, and net lines if nets unavailable

Alternative: Markers, spot markers

Markers Cones

Sufficient for 7 mini courts

Mark courts before lesson or have students mark their own serving boxes

Alternative: Chalk for outdoor courts, floor tape for indoor

Nets

6-8 (if available)

Set up at regulation height (91cm at centre), ensure secure and safe

Alternative: Two parallel cone lines approximately 1 metre apart to simulate net height

Bibs

4-6 different colours

Use for Pacman warm-up and to identify tournament groups

Alternative: Bands, coloured markers

Score Sheets

1 per court plus master sheet

Provide to umpires/players for recording match results

Alternative: Whiteboards and markers for each court

Easel

Position where all students can see tournament standings and results

Alternative: Whiteboard, tablet with display

Clipboards

1 for teacher

For recording assessment observations and tournament management

Alternative: Tablet for digital recording

Stopwatch

1-2

For timing matches and warm-up activities

Alternative: Phone timer, visible countdown clock

Key Vocabulary

Tactics

Planned actions or strategies used to gain an advantage over an opponent during play

Strategy

Overall game plan designed to exploit opponent weaknesses and maximise your strengths

Tournament

A competitive event where multiple players compete in a series of matches, with winners advancing or earning points

Umpiring

Officiating a match by calling scores, line decisions, and ensuring rules are followed fairly

Sportsmanship

Fair, respectful, and gracious behaviour whether winning or losing, including honesty and respect for opponents

Strengths and Weaknesses

Aspects of a player's game that are particularly strong or areas where they struggle

Drop Shot

A softly hit shot that barely clears the net, designed to catch opponents off guard when they're positioned deep

Competitive Play

Playing matches where the outcome matters, requiring tactical thinking and sustained effort to win

Court Awareness

Understanding your position on court relative to boundaries, net, and opponent positioning

Tactical Awareness

The ability to read the game, recognise patterns, and make intelligent shot selections to gain advantages

Skill Progression Pathway

Understanding where pupils are coming from and where they're going

Prior Learning

Students can perform forehand and backhand groundstrokes with reasonable control
Students understand basic serving technique and court positioning
Students have experienced rally play and understand basic tennis rules
Students have developed consistency in returning balls over the net

Current Skills

Applying tactical thinking to exploit opponent weaknesses
Making strategic decisions during competitive match play
Umpiring matches and maintaining fair play standards
Using a variety of shots (drop shots, deep shots, wide shots) purposefully

Next Steps

Developing advanced tactical patterns and match strategies
Participating in inter-school tennis competitions
Joining local tennis clubs or coaching programmes
Understanding tournament structures and competitive rankings

Milestone Indicators

Students can identify at least two specific weaknesses in their opponent's game

Students adjust tactics mid-match based on success or failure of previous shots

Students demonstrate consistent application of tactical awareness across multiple matches

Students show resilience and positive attitude even when losing heavily

Key Teaching Points

Tactical awareness means purposefully targeting opponent weaknesses through deliberate shot selection and placement
Effective tactics require observation of opponent before, during, and between points to identify patterns
Different opponents require different tactical approaches - what works against one may not work against another
Tactics include: targeting backhand, using drop shots when opponent deep, hitting wide to move them, varying pace
Sportsmanship is non-negotiable - compete hard but with respect, honesty, and grace in winning or losing
Tournament structure provides meaningful competition where all students compete at appropriate level for their ability
Umpiring is an important skill and responsibility, requiring fairness, confidence, and rule knowledge
Resilience means maintaining effort and positive attitude even when losing or facing challenges
Tennis is a lifelong sport offering continued participation opportunities beyond school in clubs and recreational settings

Common Misconceptions

Misconception: 'Tactics just means hitting hard.' Correction: Tactics involve intelligent placement, targeting weaknesses, and varying shots - not just power. Demonstrate how soft drop shots can be more effective tactically than powerful but predictable groundstrokes.
Misconception: 'I should use the same tactics against every opponent.' Correction: Different opponents have different weaknesses. You must observe and adapt. Show examples of how tactics change based on opponent characteristics (slow vs fast, strong forehand vs backhand, etc.).
Misconception: 'Good sportsmanship means letting opponents win points.' Correction: Sportsmanship means competing hard while showing respect, honesty, and grace. It's about how you behave, not about giving away points. You can be fiercely competitive AND respectful.
Misconception: 'If I'm losing, there's no point trying tactics.' Correction: Tactics are especially important when losing - they give you the best chance to turn the match around! Resilient players keep trying new approaches even when behind.
Misconception: 'Umpiring is boring/easy.' Correction: Umpiring requires concentration, rule knowledge, confidence, and fairness. It's a skilled role that professional tennis depends on. Good umpires make matches run smoothly and fairly.
Misconception: 'Tennis is only for people who are naturally good at it.' Correction: Tennis is a sport anyone can learn and enjoy at their own level. The tournament grouping today showed that everyone can have competitive, enjoyable matches regardless of starting ability.

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Shorter match times with clear timers visible; active participation throughout (umpiring when not playing prevents boredom); clear, concise instructions repeated as needed; frequent movement breaks built into tournament structure; regular positive reinforcement and specific feedback; clear boundaries and rules consistently enforced; visual reminders of behavioural expectations; opportunity to release energy in warm-up and during matches

dyspraxia

Larger, softer foam tennis balls for easier contact; lightweight rackets with larger heads; additional practice time before tournament if needed; simplified court markings to reduce visual complexity; buddy support for equipment setup and organisation; breakdown tactical concepts into simpler components; allow extra time for processing instructions; celebrate effort and improvement over absolute performance; modified scoring or court size to increase success opportunities

autism spectrum

Provide clear visual schedule of tournament structure and match order displayed throughout; predictable routines with advance notice of transitions; quiet area available if sensory overwhelm occurs; social story about tournament expectations and appropriate behaviours; clear, concrete instructions without ambiguity; visual cue cards for tactical concepts; partner with understanding, supportive peer; advance preparation about competitive nature and possibility of losing

visual impairment

Use brightly coloured balls for increased visibility; provide verbal descriptions of court layout and opponent positioning; buddy system with sighted peer for navigation and setup; tactile court markers (raised lines or ropes) for boundary awareness; umpire calls score loudly and clearly; allow shorter court dimensions to reduce distance; audio cues for ball location if needed

hearing impairment

All instructions provided visually as well as verbally (demonstrations, written fixture lists); visual signals for start/stop (hand signals alongside whistle); umpire uses clear visual signals for score; position near teacher for lip-reading during explanations; written rules and tactics reminders available; visual cues for tactical prompts; ensure facing student when giving instructions

physical disability

Adapted court sizes - smaller dimensions with closer net if mobility limited; use of lighter rackets or shorter rackets for reduced strength; seated or wheelchair tennis adaptations with appropriate court modifications; allow additional time for movement between shots; modified serving rules if overhead serve too difficult (underarm serves permitted); peer support for equipment setup; alternative scoring systems if needed (first to 5 points instead of traditional games)

Cross-Curricular Links

English

Communication skills in umpiring (clear, loud calling of scores); articulating tactical thinking during discussions; reflective speaking about learning and experiences; listening to instructions and rules; vocabulary development with technical tennis terms; persuasive speaking when encouraging peers

Maths

Scoring systems and points calculation throughout tournament; recording and displaying data on results board; understanding tournament structure and fixture mathematics (A vs B, winners play winners); measuring court dimensions and serving box sizes; angles of ball trajectory for tactical placement; calculating percentages (serve success rate, tactical shot success rate)

Science

Forces acting on tennis ball (gravity, air resistance, friction with court); trajectory and spin physics affecting ball flight and bounce; energy transfer from racket to ball; cardiovascular system response during extended tournament play; muscular system engagement in tennis movements; recovery and cool-down physiological processes

Geography

Spatial awareness and court mapping; directions and positioning terminology (diagonal serving, baseline, centre court); understanding boundaries and zones within playing area; origins of tennis and global tournaments (Wimbledon location)

ICT/Computing

Video recording of matches for analysis and assessment; digital recording of tournament results and standings; potential use of tablets for score-keeping; analysis of filmed performances for tactical review; digital communication about tennis continuation opportunities

PSHE

Teamwork and cooperation during tournament organisation; resilience and perseverance when facing defeat; managing emotions under competitive pressure; respect and sportsmanship towards opponents and officials; honesty in umpiring and self-assessment; building self-confidence through achievement and recognition; handling success graciously; goal-setting for improvement and continued participation

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Position centrally between courts during tournament play for maximum visibility. Circulate regularly to observe all groups closely. During explanations, position where all students can see and hear clearly, preferably with visual aids visible behind you. During demonstrations, ensure clear sightlines for all students. Never turn back completely on active play - maintain awareness of all courts.

Observation Focus

Primary focus: tactical awareness - are students purposefully targeting opponent weaknesses? Look for: specific shot placement patterns, adaptation during matches, use of varied shots (drop shots, deep shots, wide placement). Secondary focus: technical skills - serving accuracy, groundstroke consistency, movement efficiency. Tertiary focus: sportsmanship and emotional regulation - handshakes, reactions to points, resilience when losing, encouragement of others. Use clipboard to record specific observations against assessment framework (Head, Hands, Heart).

Intervention Points

Intervene immediately if: dangerous play occurs; poor sportsmanship displayed; rules being broken consistently; students struggling emotionally with competition; tactical awareness not evident; matches becoming too one-sided causing distress. Use whistle to stop all play if urgent, or approach individual courts for specific guidance. Provide tactical prompts to students struggling: 'Where is your opponent weak?' Offer emotional support to students finding competition difficult: 'Great effort, keep trying!'

Demonstration Notes

Demonstrate tactical concepts using exaggerated clarity: point to specific court areas when discussing placement; show drop shot vs deep shot technique differences; use students as demonstration partners when possible to show real application. During tournament play, stop one court briefly to highlight excellent tactical example for whole class observation. Ensure demonstrations are quick and clear to minimise disruption to tournament flow. Use filmed examples during plenary to celebrate good practice.

Verbal Cues

•'Think about where your opponent is standing!'
•'Target their weakness!'
•'What's working? Keep doing it!'
•'Brilliant tactical shot!'
•'Good resilience - keep fighting!'
•'Remember your sportsmanship!'
•'Adapt your tactics - try something different!'
•'Watch and learn from this rally!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Minimum 6-8 mini tennis courts marked out with adequate spacing between courts (minimum 2 metres separation). If using full-size courts, reduce number of simultaneous courts to maintain safety. Indoor hall minimum 20m x 30m; outdoor space flexible based on available courts.

Surface Check

Dry, even surface free from hazards such as loose balls, equipment, debris, or water. Outdoor courts checked for puddles, leaves, or slippery areas. Indoor floors checked for moisture or slippery patches. Lines clearly visible to define boundaries.

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•All tennis rackets inspected before use for broken strings, cracked frames, or loose grips - damaged rackets removed from use
•Tennis balls checked for appropriate bounce and condition - worn balls replaced
•Nets secured properly at correct height with no sharp edges or loose fixtures that could cause trips or cuts
•Cones stable and positioned where they won't create trip hazards during play
•Equipment storage areas positioned safely away from playing areas

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Collisions between students during competitive play, particularly during intense rallies
•Being struck by tennis balls hit powerfully or accidentally by other courts
•Tripping over equipment, court boundaries, nets, or other students
•Overexertion during extended competitive tournament play
•Emotional distress from competitive pressure, losing matches, or disputes
•Racket-related injuries from swinging near others or throwing in frustration

Risk Mitigation

•Clear court boundaries established and enforced to prevent encroachment into adjacent courts
•Adequate spacing between courts (minimum 2 metres) reduces cross-court interference
•Explicit rules about staying in designated court areas during matches
•Umpires positioned safely outside playing areas, not in line of play
•Students not playing positioned as spectators away from active courts
•Regular reminders about racket safety: no swinging near others, controlled swings only during play
•Warm-up adequately prepares muscles for extended activity reducing injury risk
•Water breaks offered between tournament rounds to prevent overexertion
•Teacher actively monitoring all courts, intervening if dangerous play observed
•Sportsmanship emphasised throughout to minimise emotional reactions leading to unsafe behaviour
•Clear stop signal (whistle) established that all students respond to immediately

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position centrally where maximum number of courts visible simultaneously
•Circulate between courts regularly to observe all matches up close
•Monitor high-intensity matches more closely where competitive pressure highest
•Watch for signs of frustration, distress, or inappropriate behaviour
•Ensure umpires are fulfilling their role and not in dangerous positions
•Supervise equipment collection at end to prevent chaotic, unsafe retrieval
•Maintain sightlines - never turn back on active courts
•Position with sun behind if outdoors to maintain clear visibility

Emergency Procedures

Immediate stop signal (whistle) if injury, dangerous play, or emergency occurs. All students trained to freeze on signal. Teacher approaches incident, assesses severity, provides appropriate first aid or summons assistance. Other students remain calm and clear of area. Injury recorded according to school policy. Parents informed of any injuries sustained. Emergency exits identified at start of session.