Clayson Tennis Academy in Clare is a tennis academy led by experienced tennis instructor, Sam Clayson. Located at the Clare Tennis Club, the academy offers a wide range of programmes catered to juniors of all skill levels. With a focus on skill development and fostering a love for the sport, Clayson Tennis Academy aims to provide an enriching and enjoyable tennis experience for all participants.
For young beginners aged 5–9 years old, the academy offers the popular HOTSHOTS programme. Led by Sam Clayson himself, the programme ensures age-appropriate coaching with a low coach-to-player ratio of 1:4. The programme runs for 12 weeks, split between term 4 and term 1. In case of weather-related cancellations, make-up sessions are available.
The cost for the HotShots programme is $100. The sessions take place on Thursdays from 3:45 pm to 4:15 pm for 5-7-year-olds and from 4:15 pm to 4:45 pm for 7-9-year-olds.
Older children aged 10 and above are encouraged to participate in the Division 5 Green Dot weekend competition. Under the guidance of Sam Clayson, junior players receive coaching sessions on Thursday nights based on their respective divisions. Division 4 & 5 train from 4:45 pm to 5:30 pm, Division 3 & 4 from 5:30 pm to 6:15 pm, and Division 1 & 2 from 6:15 pm to 7:00 pm. Matches are held on Saturday mornings and occasionally on Friday nights.
The junior season subscription fee is $120, which includes coaching, matches, and ball money.
In addition to the regular programmes, Clayson Tennis Academy also offers Tuesday Squad Training for players looking to focus on technique and match tactics. Led by Sam Clayson, the small group squad training sessions are held from 3:30 pm to 5:00 pm on Tuesdays. Interested participants can contact Sam directly to register their interest.
The academy also provides the option for participants to purchase Clare Tennis Club Juniors green and purple polo shirts, hats, and visors. These items are available for purchase at Thursday trainings.
Clayson Tennis Academy greatly values the support and involvement of parents in their junior programmes. Parent helpers and team managers play vital roles in ensuring the smooth functioning of the academy. Families are asked to complete a short survey at the start of the season to nominate the ways they can contribute. Jobs include team management on Friday nights or Saturday mornings, support and supervision of small groups during Thursday trainings, and assistance in setting up nets and chairs on Thursdays and Saturdays.
Clayson Tennis Academy also participates in the Sports Vouchers programme, an initiative by the Government of South Australia. Primary school-aged children from Reception to Year 9 have the opportunity to receive up to a $100 discount on sports or dance membership/registration fees through this programme.
For a comprehensive and enjoyable tennis experience catered specifically to junior players, look no further than Clayson Tennis Academy in Clare. Led by the experienced and dedicated coach, Sam Clayson, the academy aims to develop skills, instil a love for the sport, and create a supportive and nurturing environment for young tennis enthusiasts.