Creating a standout tennis recruiting video can showcase your abilities effectively to college coaches. Here’s how to build a strong skills video that captures the attention of recruiters.

1. Gather and Use Existing Footage

If you have previous match or practice footage, start by reviewing it to find clips that highlight your strengths. These moments can be invaluable, especially if court access is limited.

2. Film From Multiple Angles

When filming, position the camera at different angles, particularly from one corner of the court, to ensure coaches see both your footwork and the entire court. Clear views of your movements allow coaches to evaluate positioning, speed, and technique.

3. Prioritize Full-Speed Drills

Perform all drills and serves at full game speed. Coaches want to see your real-time reactions and movement on the court, as well as your endurance and athleticism.

4. Focus on Serves

Your serve is one of the most important shots in men’s tennis. Be sure to showcase serve pace, accuracy, and consistency. Coaches will closely evaluate your form, placement, and effectiveness in this area.

Essentials for Your College Tennis Recruiting Video

Here’s what college coaches are looking for in a well-rounded video:

• Basic Shots: Display forehand, backhand, serves, returns, and volleys.
• Shot Variety: Include footage that demonstrates your handling of wide balls, short balls, spins, and other types of shots.
• Footwork and Agility: Show quick recovery to the middle after each shot, as well as your positioning and balance on the court.
• Match Footage: Coaches want to see how you approach and set up points, follow through, and respond to competitive situations.

Steps to Make a Great Tennis Skills Video

1. Capture Quality Footage

Use a reliable camera, such as a tablet or professional camera, positioned in a corner for a wide-angle view of the court. Aim for three to four minutes of footage focusing on rallies and matches.

2. Edit and Organize Clips

Select 20–30 clips that highlight your technique, mechanics, and best plays. Place the most impressive moments within the first 30 seconds to catch a coach’s attention quickly. Make sure to clearly identify yourself in each clip, and include contact information at the beginning and end.

3. Share and Promote Your Video

Upload the final video to a profile, such as Athlete Pipeline, and a public platform like YouTube. Include a descriptive title like “[Full Name] Tennis Recruiting Video Class of 20[XX]” to make it easy for coaches to find. Send direct links to your video in emails to coaches to increase its visibility.

Recommended Length and Content of Your Tennis Video

• Video Length: Aim for 3–4 minutes.
• Shots to Include:
  • Strokes: 10 forehand and 10 backhand shots.
  • Volleys: 10 forehand and 10 backhand volleys.
  • Overheads: 5 overhead shots.
  • Serves: 20 serves (10 from each side).
  • Serve Returns: 10 serve returns (5 from each side).
• Match Footage: Include clips that showcase your speed, point setup, endurance, and composure under pressure.

If You Need Help Editing

For those who prefer professional assistance, you can seek video editing services tailored for sports recruiting. With Athlete Pipeline, coaches can easily access your polished video, maximizing your recruitment chances by showcasing your strengths directly to them.