TIPP CITY — An exciting new pilot program will get underway at Schroeder Tennis Center, beginning in October.

They will offer Red Ball Adult Tennis — a program being offered by the United States Tennis Association.

The five week program at the Schroeder Tennis Center will begin on Oct. 10 at a 6 p.m. and includes a racket, instruction and court time. The cost of the program is $89 and everyone gets a free racquet.

“We are the only tennis center in the Dayton area offering this program,” Schroeder Tennis Center owner Bud Schroeder said.

The program was created as “fun, adult social experience” designed to bring new players to the courts and have them playing the game in 10 minutes.

Schroeder said it is a great way for beginners to get into tennis.

The game will be played on smaller courts, with shorter rackets and slightly larger tennis balls.

“The courts and rackets will be smaller and the ball will be softer,” Schroeder said.

The equipment — 23-inch rackets and red dot felt balls — is included in the pilot package for all participants in the program and is designed to increase player success.

A nationwide rollout of the program — which could be launched next year — will likely get more rackets in the hands of beginners as well as those coming back to the game after years away. Schroeder is hopeful that it also leads to an increase in the number of traditional full court players.

According to the Tennis Industry Association, 23.8 million Americans ages six and older played tennis at least once in 2023 and 25.1 million Americans who didn’t play tennis in 2023 are “very interested” in doing so now.