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Hints to Young Players (Be sure that you have taken up)

Be sure that you have taken up your position as per the laws of the game, and serve into the proper court--that is, the court diagonally opposite, not in your immediate front.

When you have served, and the score has been made, cross to the other side of your half-court line, and repeat service till you are "hand-out." Be very careful not to strike too hard. A gentle following up of the ball with the racket, rather than a decided hit, is best for a beginner. Be quick, active, vigilant, and be sure you make no error in scoring. This is apt to lead to disputes and destroy the harmony of your game. Do not get in your partner's way. Let him, if he desire it, keep in front, and do you back him up,--or you can agree as to position in the courts. The best return is close over the net with a twist on. A direct return at your opponent is "telling" also.

Take care not to get over the ball. Stand in your court, but on the left of it, so that you have only to advance to hit the ball when it bounds; otherwise you will have to step back, and probably miss it.

Do not try "fancy" play till you have practised the ordinary game. Then cuts, twists, and back-handers will all come like figures in skating when you have "found your feet."