Football tennis

Football tennis combines elements of football and tennis to create a hybrid game that’s ideal for honing touch, control, passing, and heading. Plus, it’s accessible to players of all levels and abilities, making it a perfect addition to any sports club looking to promote inclusivity and engagement.

Let’s explore some of the basics of football tennis, including the rules, how to play, and tips for improving your skills. Whether you're a seasoned pro or a complete novice, you'll find the fundamental knowledge you’ll need to hone your footballing skills and have fun while doing so.

What is Football Tennis?

Football tennis, sometimes known as futnet, is a sport played with a football on a court divided by a net. For friendly games, some people use a line of football cones or markers in lieu of a net. 

The game is a hybrid of football and tennis, where players use their feet, heads, and bodies to hit the ball over the net. The objective is to score points by landing the ball in the opponent's court in such a way that they cannot return it.

The sport can be played in singles or doubles format, providing flexibility for different group sizes and skill levels. Its adaptability and minimal equipment requirements make it an excellent option for inclusive sports activities.

Basic Football Tennis Rules

Understanding the rules of football tennis is essential to enjoying the game and improving your skills. Here are the key rules to keep in mind:

Court and Equipment

A standard football tennis court is eight metres long and 12.8 meters wide, with a net dividing the court in the middle.

The net is typically set at 1.1 meters high, although variations exist based on player preferences and abilities. Again, players can mark the dimensions of a football tennis court with cones or markers. A standard football is used for play.

Gameplay

Football tennis can be played with two teams of one (singles) or two players (doubles). The game begins with a serve, where the server stands behind the baseline and kicks the ball over the net. The ball must land in the opponent's service area.

Points are scored when the opposing team fails to return the ball over the net, hits the ball out of bounds, or commits a fault. Common faults include touching the net, using your hands, or allowing the ball to bounce more than once on your side.

Winning the Game

The game is typically played to 11 or 21 points, depending on the agreed format. A team must win by at least two points to secure victory.

How to Play Football Tennis

Playing football tennis is straightforward and fun. Here’s a step-by-step guide to get you started:

Step 1: Set Up the Court

Set up the court using the dimensions mentioned earlier. Ensure the net is securely positioned and at the correct height. This setup can be done indoors or outdoors – making it accessible for various environments.

Step 2: Warm-Up

Before starting the game, engage in a light warm-up. This can include jogging, dynamic stretches, and ball control drills to prepare your body for the game.

Step 3: Serving

Begin the game with a serve. The server stands behind the baseline and kicks the ball over the net into the opponent's service area. Practice different types of serves – such as spin or lob serves – to keep your opponents guessing.

Step 4: Rally and Return

Once the ball is in play, both teams rally by returning the ball over the net using their feet, heads, or bodies. Focus on ball control and positioning to effectively return the ball and put pressure on your opponents.

Step 5: Scoring

Score points by forcing the opposing team to make mistakes, such as hitting the ball out of bounds or failing to return it. Keep track of the score and aim to reach the agreed points total to win the game.

Tips for Improving Your Football Tennis Skills

Improving your football tennis skills means improving your core football skills while keeping things fresh and interesting – but it takes practice. 

Here are some tips to help you get better at the game:

Focus on Footwork

Good footwork is crucial in football tennis. Practice quick movements, side shuffles, and pivots to improve your agility and positioning on the court.

Enhance Ball Control

Ball control is key to success in football tennis. Work on dribbling, juggling, and passing drills to enhance your touch and accuracy with the ball.

Communicate with Teammates

When playing doubles, communication with your partner is essential. Develop signals or verbal cues to coordinate movements and strategies during the game.

Adapt to Different Playing Styles

Be prepared to adapt your playing style based on your opponents. Some may prefer a defensive approach, while others might be aggressive. Adjust your tactics accordingly to gain an advantage.

Football Tennis Shopping List

The chances are you already have most of the gear you need to play football tennis casually. Whether it’s part of your training sessions or something you play with friends and family, you’ll need a few basic items. 

Football 

The key element of the game is a standard football. For optimal play, a size 5 ball is most commonly used, but younger players or beginners may prefer a smaller ball (size 4) for better control.

Football Tennis Net

A football tennis net is essential to divide the court. It should be similar in height to a tennis net, approximately 1 meter high. Portable nets are ideal for versatility, as they can be set up indoors or outdoors. If you can’t find an affordable net, just line up some football training cones or rebounder nets. 

Marking Lines

Use cones, tape, markers, or chalk to outline the court boundaries. Clear markings help maintain fairness and avoid disputes during gameplay.

Footwear

Comfortable sports shoes with good grip are recommended. For outdoor games on grass, football cleats may be necessary, while indoor games require non-marking trainers.

Start Playing Football Tennis Today for a Fun Way to Improve Your Core Skills

Football tennis is a fantastic sport that offers numerous benefits, from improving skills and fitness to promoting inclusivity in sports clubs. By understanding the rules and practising regularly, you enjoy an alternative to repetitious training drills.