However, beyond official qualifications, being a good coach requires an in-depth knowledge of the sport. It is not enough to obtain a certification; a good coach must understand the types of tennis courts, how they influence the game and how to adapt training according to the surface.
It is also essential to master the main strokes, their variations and the techniques to perfect them for each player. In addition, it is key to keep up to date on the latest developments in training and physical preparation to continue improving as a professional.
Below, we will explore the different levels of certification in Spain, the requirements for each one and the job opportunities offered by this profession. Let’s get started!
Requirements to become a tennis coach in Spain
To become a tennis coach in Spain, it is essential to meet certain basic requirements before starting official training:
- Minimum age: You must be at least 16 years old.
- Federative license: It is mandatory to have a valid license from the Royal Spanish Tennis Federation (RFET).
- Academic background: To access certain levels of certification, you need the title of ESO or equivalent.
- Training test: If you wish to obtain the title of National Monitor (Level 1) or higher, you must pass an exam that evaluates your technical skills on the court.
Obtaining these certifications will not only allow you to coach players at different levels, but will also open doors to job opportunities in clubs, academies and competitions.
Levels of certification for tennis coaches
In Spain, training for tennis coaches is regulated by the RFET, and follows a system structured in different levels. Each certification allows you to coach players with different degrees of experience and access more opportunities within the tennis world.
National Instructor (Level 0): Introduction to Tennis Instruction
This course is designed for those who wish to get started in teaching tennis, especially with young children between the ages of 4 and 8. It focuses on mini-tennis, a game-based teaching method for younger children to learn the fundamentals of the sport.
Duration and requirements:
- 30-hour course, with 15 classroom hours and 15 hours of practice.
- Minimum 16 years of age.
- Valid federative license.
Skills acquired:
- Teaching children in initiation stage.
- Apply playful and pedagogical methodologies.
- Support higher level coaches in schools and clubs.
National Monitor (Level 1): Basic technical and tactical training
This is the first level of official certification and is aimed at those who wish to begin teaching tennis. National monitors work with beginner and intermediate players, helping them improve their technique and understanding of the game.
Duration and requirements:
- 250-hour course, with 150 hours of practice in a sports center.
- Be 16 years of age or older.
- Possession of the ESO diploma or equivalent.
- Pass the training test.
- Valid federation license.
Acquired skills:
- Basic training planning.
- Development of technical and tactical skills.
- Organization of tournaments and club events.
National Coach (Level 2): Preparation of advanced players
As players advance in their development, they require more structured training and strategies adapted to competition. National coaches have the necessary training to work with higher level players, focusing on the application of advanced tactics and physical and mental preparation for tournaments.
Duration and requirements:
- Course of 465 hours, with 200 hours of practice.
- To have obtained the title of National Monitor (Level 1).
- Federative license in force.
Skills acquired:
- Training of players in competition.
- Application of advanced strategies.
- Mentoring of new instructors in training.
National Teacher (Level 3): High performance training
This is the highest level of certification and qualifies to manage tennis clubs and academies, in addition to coaching high performance players. Its focus encompasses both technical and physical improvement as well as strategic preparation for players seeking to compete at the professional level.
Duration and requirements:
- 600-hour course, with a significant portion dedicated to sports management.
- National Coaching qualification (Level 2).
- Possession of a high school diploma or equivalent.
- Valid federative license.
Acquired skills:
- Management of clubs and high performance programs.
- Development of professional players.
- Management of intensive training and advanced physical preparation.
Training test: the first step in training
To access the title of National Monitor (Level 1), it is mandatory to pass a practical test that evaluates the technical level of the candidate.
The test consists of a series of specific strokes that must be executed with precision in different areas of the court:
- Forehand and backhand strokes (parallel and cross-court).
- Forehand and backhandvolleys.
- Backhands with and without bounce.
- Serves (first serve flat and second serve with spin).
It is necessary to obtain at least 120 points to pass the test and start training as a coach.
Specialization courses for tennis coaches
In addition to official certifications, the RFET offers specialization courses that expand the skills of coaches. These trainings allow coaches to improve their preparation in key areas of coaching.
Wheelchair Tennis Specialization Course
Adapted tennis has grown in popularity, and Spain has outstanding wheelchair tennis players. This course trains coaches to work with wheelchair tennis players, teaching techniques and strategies specific to this type of game.
Duration:
- 20 hours
Skills acquired:
- Adapted teaching methods.
- Mobility and hitting techniques in wheelchairs.
- Training planning for players with disabilities.
Racquet stringing course
Good stringing influences a player’s performance. This course teaches the fundamentals of professional stringing, allowing coaches to recommend and make customized adjustments to their students’ racquets.
Duration:
- 15 hours
Skills acquired:
- String types and their effect on the game.
- Manual and machine stringing techniques.
- Stringing customization according to the playing style.
Seminar on physical preparation applied to tennis
Tennis performance depends not only on technique, but also on physical preparation. This seminar delves into the development of specific physical training plans for tennis players of different ages and levels.
Duration:
- 30 hours
Skills acquired:
- Design of strength, speed and endurance programs.
- Injury prevention in young and adult players.
- Evaluation and improvement of physical performance on the court.
Course of psychology applied to tennis
Mentality is key in tennis, and this course teaches psychological strategies to improve confidence, concentration and stress management in players.
Duration:
- 25 hours
Skills acquired:
- Techniques to strengthen competitive mentality.
- Pressure management in tournaments and training sessions.
- Development of psychological routines to improve performance.
The training test: the first step to become a tennis coach
Before being certified as a National Monitor (Level 1), applicants must pass a training test, which evaluates their level of play and technical understanding of tennis.
what does the test consist of?
Participants must execute a series of specific strokes, both at the back of the court and at the net, under the supervision of RFET evaluators:
- Forehand and backhand (parallel and cross-court).
- Forehand and backhand volleys.
- Backhands with and without bounce.
- Service (flat and with spin).
To pass, it is necessary to obtain at least 120 points, which are awarded according to the precision and quality of the strokes.
Tip: Preparing in advance with experienced coaches can make the difference in passing this test with flying colors.
Career opportunities as a tennis coach
Becoming a certified tennis coach opens many doors in the sports world. The demand for qualified professionals continues to increase, as tennis is a sport with a large player base in Spain and around the world.
Beyond clubs and academies, coaches have the possibility to work in various environments, adapting to different levels and objectives of the players.
Main career opportunities for tennis coaches:
- Tennis clubs and academies: training players from beginner level to high performance.
- Sports schools and colleges: Tennis programs oriented to children and teenagers.
- Private training or personalized coaching: Individual sessions for players looking to improve specific technical or tactical aspects.
- Tennis camps in Spain and abroad: Spaces where coaches can work with young talents in an intensive and professional environment.
Ertheo Tennis Camps: a platform for coaches and players
For those who wish to broaden their experience and work with young people in high-level environments, Ertheo’ s tennis camps represent an unparalleled opportunity.
Our camps not only allow you to develop your coaching skills, but also to establish contacts in the industry and become part of a team of professionals with extensive experience in teaching tennis.
Benefits for players
- Training designed by certified coaches and programs adapted to different levels.
- Preparation focused on tournaments, improvement of physical performance and mental development.
- International environment, with players from different countries sharing the experience.
Benefits for coaches
- Practical application of teaching methodologies at different levels of training.
- Development of experience in a dynamic environment, with motivated and constantly evolving players.
- Opportunity to connect with other coaches and expand the possibilities for professional growth.
For those looking for an experience that combines training, teaching and growth in the world of tennis, Ertheo camps are an excellent option to continue evolving as a coach.
Conclusion: A path full of opportunities
Being a tennis coach in Spain not only involves obtaining a certification, but also developing a comprehensive vision of the sport. Beyond technical teaching, a good coach inspires, motivates and guides his or her players towards continuous improvement.
Each step along this path opens up new opportunities in the world of tennis. RFET courses lead to official certifications. Experience in tennis camps helps to apply knowledge in a real environment. In addition, specialization in areas such as sports psychology and physical preparation strengthens the professional profile.
If you are ready to become a professional coach, it is time to take the first step and start your training. The future of many players may be in your hands!
