Excerpted from the 2nd edition of "The Tennis Parent's Bible," a comprehensive reference guide uniting the parents, athletes and coaches of youth tennis players.
The economics of tennis vary from level-to-level and city-to-city, taking account the families established living expectations. Recreational tennis at a city park is basically free.
Competitive tennis is a different animal. If you're reading this book, my bet is that your child has progressed nicely into the competitive levels. As we peek into the economics of the game, it's important to keep in mind that only by risking going too far, can you find out how far your child can go.
Chasing dreams comes with a price tag. To illustrate this point, I have included the actual finances of a client of mine. This young man is 16 years old with a USTA national ranking in the top 40. He works hard on his game an average of 20 hours a week. He is committed and works his tail off.
Actual Tennis Related Expenses:
The bottom line for this unique individual is that it breaks down to roughly $150 a day, which is $10,560 a quarter or $54,750 annually. The following is an estimated detailed quarterly expense report for this top nationally ranked junior in Southern California:
- Driving to and from tennis: $720
- Meals on the road: $1,200
- Airline tickets: $2000
- Hotel rooms: $600
- Tennis academies or clinics: $1,440
- Off-court training: $1,500
- Private tennis lessons: $3,700
- Sports related physical therapy: $530
- Equipment strings and grips only: $600
- Clothes 3 outfits/1 pair of tennis shoes: $350
- Tournament registration: $550
Quarterly Estimated Total: $10,560
*Most full time/boarding academy attendees' expenses are far greater.
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