Exploring Pathways: Constraints, Initiatives, and Alternatives for Introducing Tennis in Primary Education

Abstract

This study aims to examine the constraints, initiatives, and alternatives of teachers in training primary school tennis players. This study also seeks expert consensus on tennis abilities and suitable equipment for training students to play tennis without a court at school. Information was gathered through surveys and interviews. The study participants included three (3) primary school teachers who coached school tennis players, along with 20 experts in sports science, sports psychology, physical education, module development, and tennis coaching. The interview revealed that teachers have difficulties in training their players, such as no tennis court facilities and limited equipment, inadequate support systems, and a lack of dedication. The teacher's goal is to prepare a team by utilising creativity and available resources as a training platform. Experts' appraisal indicates that the abilities requiring training off the tennis court are sending and receiving for the tactical aspect, and forehand, backhand, volley, and serve for the technical aspect. The equipment needed to play tennis without an actual court is a racket, a net, a level 1 tennis ball (red), a cone, a marker, and a marker line. Ultimately, this study suggests that basic tennis skills can be practiced without an actual court by utilising approved equipment recommended by experts. A tennis sports readiness module should be created for primary school students in Malaysia, based on the study's findings on street tennis, to enhance the competitiveness of tennis sports in the country.