417-439 Bunnerong Road

Matraville NSW 2036

Mon - Thur: 7:00am - 10:00pm

Friday: 7:00am - 9:00pm Weekends: 7:00am - 8:00pm

And How the Hot Shots Program Makes It Easy to Start


For many parents, choosing the right sport for their child can feel overwhelming.

You want something safe, structured, and positive.
Something that helps your child build confidence, stay active, and learn life skills.

But most importantly… you want them to enjoy it.

That’s one of the reasons more families in southeast Sydney are discovering junior tennis at Heffron Park Tennis Centre.

And for younger players, the perfect starting point is the Hot Shots Tennis Program.

A Smarter Way for Kids to Learn Tennis

Traditional tennis can be difficult for beginners.
Full courts, fast balls, and long rallies can make the game frustrating for young players.

The Tennis Australia-accredited Hot Shots program was designed to solve this.

Using smaller courts, colour-coded balls, and age-appropriate equipment, children learn tennis in a way that feels natural and achievable.

Each stage matches their development:

🔴 Red Ball – smaller court and slower balls for beginners
🟠 Orange Ball – building rally skills and movement
🟢 Green Ball – preparing for full-court tennis

This gradual progression helps kids develop skills, confidence, and a real love for the game.

Learning Through Play, Not Pressure

One of the most important parts of the Hot Shots philosophy is learning through fun.

Kids play games, rallies, and mini challenges that develop their skills without the pressure often found in competitive sports.

The result?

Children feel supported while still learning how to improve, compete, and grow.

Over time, many players naturally progress to junior competitions and match play, already equipped with the fundamentals and confidence they need.

A Welcoming Community for Families

For many families, tennis becomes more than just a weekly lesson.

It becomes a place where kids make friends, stay active, and feel part of something positive.

Parents often notice the difference straight away.

“My son and I have been going to Heffron tennis courts for the last 5 years and have always had a friendly welcoming experience. All staff are very professional and friendly and always welcome you with a smile.”

The centre itself is designed to support this community environment.

With modern courts, open spaces, and a welcoming clubhouse, it’s a place where families enjoy spending time together.

“Amazing facilities. Bright and big. Great for many activities. Staff are very helpful.”

Personalised Coaching That Helps Kids Progress

Every child learns at a different pace.

That’s why the Hot Shots program focuses on personalised coaching and small group learning, allowing instructors to guide each player as they develop.

The goal is simple:

Help every child improve their skills, build confidence, and eventually feel ready for match play.

Parents often see the impact quickly.

“Samuel loves his tennis lessons thanks to your team and his teacher. Highly recommended!”

From First Lesson to Confident Player

Many young players who start in Hot Shots go on to enjoy:

• junior competitions
• school tournaments
• social tennis with friends
• holiday camps and special events

Programs like the Hot Shots Challenge match days give kids a chance to experience friendly competition in a supportive environment.

These small milestones help children realise something powerful:

They’re not just learning a sport.
They’re becoming tennis players.

An Accessible and Affordable Way to Start

At Heffron Park Tennis Centre, the mission is simple:

Make tennis accessible, affordable, and enjoyable for local families.

With flexible programs, experienced coaches, and welcoming facilities, it’s a place where children can start their tennis journey with confidence.

“Heffron Tennis Centre offers hard court and synthetic grass surfaces, great service and easy online booking. Great facilities. Highly recommend having a game there!”

Ready to Introduce Your Child to Tennis?

The Hot Shots Tennis Program is designed to give children the perfect introduction to the game.

Fun, supportive coaching combined with a clear progression pathway helps young players develop skills, confidence, and a lifelong love of tennis.

If your child is ready to try something new, tennis might be the perfect place to start.

If you’re new to us, claim your kids’ free first session. Sign up here.

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KIDS Tennis at Heffron Park

If you’re a parent looking for kids tennis near you in Matraville, our Kids Tennis Program or also known as Hot Shots at Heffron Park Tennis Centre is designed to help children learn tennis in a structured, age-appropriate way. Lessons use modified courts and balls so kids can rally sooner, build confidence, and develop solid fundamentals step-by-step.  

Kids Tennis at Heffron Park

If you’re a parent looking for kids tennis near you in Matravilleour Kids Tennis Program or also known as Hot Shots Program at Heffron Park Tennis Centre is designed to help children learn tennis in a structured, age-appropriate way. Lessons use modified courts and balls so kids can rally sooner, build confidence, and develop solid fundamentals step-by-step.  

hot shots tennis

What is Hot Shots Tennis?

Hot Shots Tennis is tennis for kids! A National Tennis Australia accredited program utilising modified courts and tennis balls to teach children aged between 3 to 12 years tennis a fun and easy way.

The program separates children (aged 3 to 12) into similar age ranges as well as ability, with each stage of the program focusing on different skills that enable your child to learn how to play a full game of tennis.

What Our Players Say:

Tennis is better when it’s shared. Here’s what the Heffron Park community has to say about their experience on and off the court.

Kids Tennis In Matraville

Why Our Kids Tennis Program Matter for Parents

Kids learn best when the game matches their body size, coordination level, and attention span. That’s why Hot Shots uses modified courts and tennis balls, so children can learn timing, movement, and rallying in a way that feels achievable early on.

For parents, the goal is usually simple — and if you’re keen to pick up a racquet yourself while they train, our Adult Group Lessons work on that same principle:

  • You want your child to enjoy the sport, 
  • Learn real skills, 
  • And be coached in an environment where progress is visible and expectations are clear. 

The Hot Shots Stages At Heffron Park

Hot Shots is not “one group fits all.” The program separates children into similar age ranges and ability, with each stage focusing on specific skills so your child can progress toward playing a full game.

Hot Shots is also built as a pathway. As children move through stages and build confidence, they can work toward more advanced rallying and match play, and for some, eventually progress into squad lessons. 

Kinder supports the development across fine and gross motor skills, balance, socialisation with others and provides parent and bub plenty of bonding moments.
The foundation 'Launch' stage. The lesson is jam packed with new skills and easy to learn techniques with a big emphasis on FUN.
Kids build tennis skills and begin exploring basic rally play through fun, game-based activities on modified courts, using red balls and 19–23" racquets sized for their age and ability.
Kids advance into singles and doubles play on one of two court sizes, using a 50% compression orange ball. Tactics, consistency, and competitive confidence are the focus at this stage.
The most advanced stage in the junior program. This stage has a big emphasis on skills improvement and competitive match play. The full court is used for this stage.
Recommended for children aged 11+. This stage looks at rallying and match play. Classes have a Minimum number of children to enable the coach to teach the group. Suitable for Beginner level players.
This stage has a big emphasis on technique improvement and competitive match play.
Super Squads will focus more on competition match play, how to construct points, and a strong emphasis on drills.

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meet OUR COACHes

Luis Gambali | Head Coach

Playing Background

  • Former performance junior player with national-level competitive experience.
  • 15 years of playing experience in competitive tennis.
  • Developed strong technical, tactical, and competitive foundations through high-level junior competition.
 

Coaching Experience

  • 7 years of coaching experience working with players of different ages and levels.
  • Head Coach for the past 2 years, responsible for program development, player progression, and coaching leadership.

Coaching Qualifications

  • AATC Accredited Coach – Development & Performance Coaching Courses.
  • Tennis Australia Level 1 Coach – Junior Development.
  • Tennis Australia Level 2 Coach – Club Professional.

Certifications

  • First Aid & CPR Accredited.

Education

  • Bachelor of Law (LLB).

Coaching Approach

  • Focus on technical development, tactical awareness, and strong work ethic.
  • Emphasis on positive learning environments and player confidence.
  • Experience developing junior players from grassroots participation to performance pathways.

Santiago Rodriguez | Senior Tennis Coach

  • 20 years of coaching experience with kids and adults in Australia, South America and Europe. Private and group lessons, as well as school programs with tennis andpickleball.
  • Played tennis for 30+ years, including junior nationals and senior tournaments indifferent countries.
  • A patient and thoughtful coach who wants players to enjoy their experience on thecourt by helping them understanding the game beyond their level.

    Certifications:

  • Tennis Australia Development Coach (Level 1)
  • Certificate III in Sports Coaching.
  • PTR Level 1 National and International tennis coach course.
  • PTR Level 2 National and International high-level coach course.
  • AATC Level 1 Development Tennis Coach certification from the Australasian Academyof Tennis.
  • AATC Advanced Tennis Coach certification from the Australasian Academy of Tennis Coaches.
  • AATC Pickleball Coach.
  • Estess accredited Pickleball Coach.
  • First Aids & CPR qualified

Alejo Tenti

  • Originally from Argentina, with over 4 years of professional coaching experience, I specialize in developing players of all ages and skill levels – from young beginners picking up a racquet for the first time to advanced competitors refining their tournament strategy.My coaching style focuses on communicating effectively with a diverse range of players, making lessons inclusive, clear, and highly engaging.Coaching Qualifications
    • Certificate IV in Sport Coaching – Tennis Coach
    • Tennis Australia Level 1 Coach – Junior Development.
    • First Aid & CPR Certified
    Core Expertise
    • Junior Development: Delivering engaging Hot Shots Tennis programs to build fundamental motor skills in kids.
    • Adult Coaching: Technical alignment, cardio tennis, and match-play drills for social or competitive adults.
    • Tactical & Technical Analysis: Diagnosing stroke mechanics, footwork patterns, and implementing tactical baseline strategies.
    Languages Spoken
    • English (Fluent)
    • Spanish (Native)

Marcus Italiano

  • Over 5 years experience coaching tennis both domestically and internationally in club, school and resort settings, across a variety of ages and skill levels.
  • Head Tennis Coach for Neilson Active Holidays at Baia Dei Mori Beach Club, Sardinia in 2025.
  • Trainee Coaching Course (fmr. Community Coaching) certification from Tennis Australia in 2022.
  • Holds a Bachelor of Arts / Bachelor of Secondary Education completed at Macquarie University in 2024.
  • First Aid and CPR qualified.
  • Playing Tennis for 14 years.
  • A caring, patient, hardworking and engaging coach with a great passion for working with people to develop their skills and support their learning.
Coaching session at Heffron Park

Luis Gambali

Playing Background

  • Former performance junior player with national-level competitive experience.
  • 15 years of playing experience in competitive tennis.
  • Developed strong technical, tactical, and competitive foundations through high-level junior competition.
 

Coaching Experience

  • 7 years of coaching experience working with players of different ages and levels.
  • Head Coach for the past 2 years, responsible for program development, player progression, and coaching leadership.

Coaching Qualifications

  • AATC Accredited Coach – Development & Performance Coaching Courses.
  • Tennis Australia Level 1 Coach – Junior Development.
  • Tennis Australia Level 2 Coach – Club Professional.

Certifications

  • First Aid & CPR Accredited.

Education

  • Bachelor of Law (LLB).

Coaching Approach

  • Focus on technical development, tactical awareness, and strong work ethic.
  • Emphasis on positive learning environments and player confidence.
  • Experience developing junior players from grassroots participation to performance pathways.

How to Be Part Of Our Kids Tennis Program?

Tell us: 

  • your child’s age 
  • whether they’ve played before 
  • what you want most (confidence, skills, fun, match play readiness) 

This helps us guide you to the right stage from the start. 

A free trial is available, so your child can experience the session and you can confirm fit before committing.  

Hot Shots has a published timetable through the booking system.  
(If you are unsure which class to choose, enquire first so you don’t waste time switching later.) 

Hot Shots lessons are booked and paid for in advance via fortnightly direct debit, and you can join throughout the calendar year (subject to availability).  

As skills improve, your child can progress through stages that match their ability and confidence. 

What’s Included:

  • Coaching designed for kids using modified courts and balls  
  • Grouping by age and ability  
  • Stage pathway (Kinder, Launch, Red, Orange, Green, Yellow, and squads)  
  • Option to use an Active Kids Voucher (email voucher prior to registering)  
  • Children need their own racquet appropriate for their age and stage. Our coaching team can advise on sizing. Racquets are free to borrow for the program.

What’s Not Included:

  • We do not promise specific outcomes (for example, tournament wins or guaranteed skill improvements).

How much does it cost?

Weekly pricing varies by stage and session length: 

$24.00/week (30 minutes)

$29.00/week (30 minutes)

$36.00/week (60 minutes)

$40.00/week (60 minutes)

$40.00/week (60 minutes)

$40.00/week (90 minutes)

$44.00/week (60 minutes)

$48.00/week (90 minutes)

Active Kids Voucher: “$50 off” is referenced on the page, with instruction to email the voucher prior to registering. 

More KIDS Tennis Options at
Heffron Park

Hot Shots Challenge (Kids Match Play Event)

If your child is already doing Hot Shots, the Hot Shots Challenge is a great way to experience match play in a friendly format. It is run as a round robin event with level-based rules, helping kids build confidence with scoring, serving, and point play.

LEARN MORE
Kids Match Play Event

Private Tennis Coaching For Kids

Heffron Park offers one-on-one private tennis lessons suited to all ages and ability levels, from beginners through to advanced players. Sessions are coach-led and structured around each player's personal goals, with a focus on skill-specific improvement, technique, and fitness.

Lessons are available in 30, 45, or 60-minute formats, with pricing starting at $121 for a single session and discounted 5-pack and 10-pack options available.

LEARN MORE
Private Tennis Coaching

School Holiday Tennis Camps

Looking for a structured school holiday activity for kids? Our School Holiday Camps are designed for children aged 5 to 14, with full-day and half-day options, plus after care (where available). It's a practical option for parents who want kids to stay active and keep learning during the holidays.

LEARN MORE
School Holiday Tennis Camps

Frequently Asked Questions

Hot Shots is designed for children aged 3 to 12, with squad lessons also available for those older than 12.

Stages are based on age and ability. Start by enquiring, and if available, use the free trial class to confirm fit.

They progress from modified environments toward full-court play, with Green stage described as the most advanced junior stage and using a full court.  

Yes, we offer a free trial lesson. One free trial class is offered to determine fit.

Pricing depends on stage, ranging from $23/week (Kinder) to $46/week (Squad), with session lengths noted.

Yes. Active Kids Voucher ($50 off) can be used; parents can email the voucher prior to registering.

Children are welcome to join group lessons at any time in the calendar year, subject to availability.

Even if the weather is indifferent, assume the lesson is on, and where possible, you may be notified in advance if a session needs to be cancelled.

417–439 Bunnerong Road, Matraville NSW 2036.

Contact Us

417-439 Bunnerong Road
Heffron Park NSW 2036
Phone: (02) 9093 6390

Our Hours

MON – THUR: 7:00am – 10:00pm
FRI – SUN: 7:00am – 9:00pm

Follow Us

Contact Us

417-439 Bunnerong Road
Heffron Park NSW 2036
Phone: (02) 9093 6390

Our Hours

MON-THUR 7:00am – 10:00pm

FRI-SUN  7:00am – 9:00pm