ABSENTEEISM, WASH & HEAT OUT - MAKE-UP POLICY [Juniors, Adults, Cardio, Junior Comps]
It is the responsibility of each player to attend all scheduled classes during the term or semester. Credits or refunds are not provided for sessions missed by a player. If a class is cancelled by Futures Tennis Academy due to rain, unsafe court conditions or extreme heat, or if a player is unable to attend a scheduled session, a make-up class may be provided. To be eligible for a make-up due to absence, the player’s absence must be submitted through the Futures Tennis Academy online customer portal at least three hours before the scheduled class start time. Make-up classes are available seven days a week across FTA’s main venues during the school term and must be booked directly through the customer portal. All make-up classes must be booked and completed within 10 weeks of the original missed or cancelled session, including school holiday periods. Make-up classes are subject to availability and must be completed by the player originally enrolled in the program.

HOW TO BOOK A MAKE-UP LESSON? [For login support, please contact the office on 0400 737 707]
To book a make-up class, access the Futures Tennis Academy customer portal by downloading the ThinkSmart Portal app or by visiting our website and selecting the Customer Portal button on the homepage. Eligible make-up credits will generally appear in your account within 24 hours of a submitted absence, or a class cancelled by Futures Tennis Academy. When creating or accessing your portal account, please use the same email address provided during registration, as this is required to link the account to the player’s booking. Make-up credits can be used to book any available class that is appropriate for the player’s level and schedule. All make-up lessons must be booked directly through the customer portal and cannot be booked by the office.

CHANGING & DISCONTINUING CLASS POLICY
Players are expected to remain in their allocated class until the end of the term or semester. If you need to request a class change during the term or semester, please contact the Futures Tennis Academy office directly. The original class day and time are allocated based on the player’s availability and the most suitable option available at the time of booking. While we will make every effort to find an alternative class, we cannot guarantee that another suitable day, time, venue or class level will be available. If a pupil chooses to discontinue coaching for any reason other than a long-term injury or illness, no credit or refund will be issued. Please refer to our Credit Policy for information regarding long-term injuries or illnesses.

CREDIT POLICY - Long Term Injury/Illness
A pro-rated credit may be granted where a pupil has a long-term injury or illness that prevents them from attending classes for three consecutive weeks or more. To be eligible, a signed medical certificate confirming the period of incapacity must be provided to Futures Tennis Academy. Once the pupil is able to resume coaching, the applicable credit will be applied toward future sessions in the same program. Credits are valid only for the individual originally enrolled and cannot be transferred to siblings or other players. For injuries or illnesses lasting two weeks or less, please refer to the Absenteeism and Make-Up Policy.

FEES POLICY- payment in advance to be eligible for FTA Public Liability Insurance.
An invoice will be issued by email and must be paid in full by the stated due date. Payment in advance is required to confirm and maintain a participant’s booking. Outstanding fees may result in a booking being suspended or the place being offered to another participant.
Futures Tennis Academy may offer both term and semester booking options. Where a reduced semester rate is offered, this is based on a commitment to the full semester. A semester booking covers both terms within that period, and discontinuing between terms does not convert the booking to a single-term booking.
Participants are expected to remain enrolled for the full term or semester booked. Refunds are not provided where a participant changes their mind, becomes unavailable or chooses to discontinue. This includes withdrawals between terms within a semester booking. For long-term injury or illness, please refer to the Futures Tennis Academy Credit Policy.
Where applicable, an account credit may be provided under our Credit Policy. Futures Tennis Academy may also, at its discretion, provide a credit as a gesture of goodwill. Discretionary credits do not create an entitlement to a refund and, unless otherwise agreed, and are not redeemable for cash. Fees are not refunded or credited for individual missed sessions. Where eligible, participants may access a make-up lesson in accordance with the Futures Tennis Academy Absenteeism, Wash & Heat Out - Make-Up Policy.
Existing bookings will automatically continue into the next applicable booking period unless the Futures Tennis Academy office is notified otherwise. Where a participant has already committed to a semester booking, choosing not to attend the second term is treated as a withdrawal from the existing semester booking, not cancellation of a new booking.

WEATHER IS UNPLEASANT HEAT / WIND / COLD?
Classes may continue in less-than-ideal weather conditions, including light drizzle, warm or cold temperatures and windy conditions. Sessions will only be cancelled where Futures Tennis Academy determines that the weather or court conditions present an unacceptable risk to player safety. Coaches may modify the session format, intensity or activities where appropriate. Futures Tennis Academy will always prioritise its duty of care when making decisions regarding weather conditions.

COACH REPLACEMENT
If an assigned coach is unavailable for a scheduled class, Futures Tennis Academy reserves the right to provide a suitably qualified substitute coach. Where a substitute coach cannot be arranged, the session may be postponed, and an alternative session or make-up class will be provided.

PUBLIC HOLIDAYS NO TENNIS COACHING:
No coaching sessions are held on Victorian public holidays or during Victorian public primary school holiday periods. These dates are excluded from the coaching calendar, and players are not charged for sessions that would otherwise fall on these days.

GRADING / ASSESSMENT / FEED-BACK POLICY
New pupils are initially placed into classes based on their age, experience and the information provided at registration. Futures Tennis Academy offers programs for a wide range of playing levels, and coaches will assess each pupil during their sessions. If a pupil is considered to be in an unsuitable class, we will make every effort to offer a more appropriate option, subject to availability. Progression into a higher-level program is based on coach assessment and is generally reviewed at the end of each semester. For concerns relating to a pupil’s coaching or development, please speak with the coach or office. Requests to change coaches or any other feedback should be submitted to the Futures Tennis Academy office by email.

PROMOTIONAL POLICY AUTHORISATION
By enrolling in a Futures Tennis Academy program, the player or their parent or guardian authorises Futures Tennis Academy to photograph or record the player during coaching sessions, competitions and academy events. These images and recordings may be used for promotional and communication purposes, including on the Futures Tennis Academy website, social media channels, flyers, posters, newsletters and relevant Tennis Australia platforms. Images will not be sold or used for purposes unrelated to Futures Tennis Academy’s activities. Players who do not wish to be photographed or recorded must notify the office before the beginning of the term or semester so that reasonable steps can be taken to exclude them from promotional content.

RAIN / HEAT OUT POLICY
If a class is cancelled due to rain, unsafe court conditions or extreme heat of 37°C or above, players will receive a text message as soon as the decision has been made. If you do not receive a cancellation message, please assume that the class will proceed as scheduled. If rain begins during a coaching session, the coach may continue the class with an indoor theory-based lesson where suitable facilities are available. Once Futures Tennis Academy declares a washout, all remaining coaching sessions affected by the cancellation will not proceed, and eligible make-up credits will be added to each player’s customer portal. School-based morning and lunchtime sessions will proceed regardless of the weather, with modified indoor or theory-based activities conducted where outdoor coaching is not possible.

PRIVATE CLASSES - TERM BOOKING DISCOUNT
Permanent private lessons allow players to secure a consistent day and time for the full term at a discounted rate. Any eligible make-up lessons must be booked and completed within 10 weeks of the original missed session, including during school holiday periods. Make-up lessons are subject to coach and court availability.

PRIVATE & SEMI-PRIVATE CLASSES – CANCELLATION NOTICE & MAKE-UP POLICY

If a participant is unable to attend a private or semi-private lesson, the absence must be submitted through the customer portal at least 10 hours before the scheduled start time. Providing the required notice will allow the participant to receive an eligible make-up credit, which must be used within 10 weeks of the missed lesson, including during school holiday periods. Where less than 10 hours’ notice is provided, the lesson will be forfeited and the full fee will remain payable.
For semi-private lessons, if one participant attends, the lesson will proceed as scheduled and will be considered delivered. A participant who does not attend may not be eligible for a make-up, credit or refund, as the scheduled semi-private lesson has still taken place.
Participants may arrange for a family member or friend of a suitable playing level to attend in their place. If a lesson is cancelled by Futures Tennis Academy due to rain, unsafe court conditions or extreme heat, a make-up credit will be added to the participant’s customer portal. Futures Tennis Academy incurs coaching, court and operational costs in advance, regardless of whether a participant attends.

0400 737 707
www.futurestennis.com.au
info@futurestennis.com

GETTING STARTED

HOW DO I KNOW WHICH PROGRAM IS RIGHT FOR MY CHILD?
The most suitable program will depend on the player’s age, previous experience, current playing level and goals. Our Hot Shots pathway is designed for younger players progressing through modified ball and court stages, while Teenage Tennis, Talent Development and Performance programs cater for older or more experienced juniors. If you are unsure, submit an enquiry with the player’s age and experience, and our team will recommend the most appropriate starting point.

MY CHILD HAS NEVER PLAYED TENNIS BEFORE. CAN THEY STILL JOIN?
Yes. Futures Tennis Academy offers beginner programs for children, teenagers and adults. Players are placed into an appropriate class based on their age and experience, and their coach will assess whether the class remains suitable once coaching begins.

DO YOU OFFER TRIAL LESSONS?
Trial lessons are available for selected group programs, subject to class availability. Please submit an enquiry before booking so our team can recommend a suitable class and confirm whether a trial place is available.

CAN WE JOIN AFTER THE TERM HAS ALREADY STARTED?
Yes, provided there is a suitable place available. Fees will be calculated on a pro-rata basis from the player's commencement date, so they will only be charged for the remaining sessions in the term or semester.

WHERE DOES FUTURES TENNIS ACADEMY OPERATE?
Futures Tennis Academy conducts programs across its main club venues and school-partner locations throughout Melbourne. Our main club venues include East Malvern Tennis Club, Ardrie Park Tennis Club and East Burwood Tennis Club. Please view the Venues page or the relevant program booking page for location details.

BOOKINGS, ENROLMENTS & FEES

HOW DO I BOOK A CLASS?
Select the relevant program on our website and use the Book Now button to view available classes and complete your booking. If you are unsure which program to select, contact the office before booking.

DOES MY ENROLMENT AUTOMATICALLY CONTINUE INTO THE NEXT TERM?
Yes. Unless you notify the Futures Tennis Academy office otherwise, regular class enrolments automatically continue from one term to the next. This allows players to retain their established class place.

CAN I CHANGE MY CLASS DAY OR TIME?
Class changes must be requested through the Futures Tennis Academy office. We will make every effort to find a suitable alternative, but another class at the preferred day, time, venue or level cannot be guaranteed.

DO YOU OFFER TERM OR SEMESTER DISCOUNTS?
Selected group programs offer discounted semester bookings, while permanent private lessons offer a discounted rate for securing a regular time for the full term. Current prices and available discounts are displayed on the relevant program or booking page.

EQUIPMENT & PREPARING FOR A CLASS

DOES MY CHILD NEED THEIR OWN RACQUET?
Bring a racquet if the player already owns one. Hot Shots programs use modified equipment, low-compression balls and age-appropriate court sizes. Please contact the office before the first lesson if the player does not have a racquet so we can advise what is available for their program and venue.

HOW DO I KNOW WHICH RACQUET SIZE TO PURCHASE?
Junior racquet sizing depends primarily on the player’s height, age and physical development. Before buying a new racquet, ask the player's coach to check the current racquet and recommend an appropriate size.

CAN I PURCHASE A RACQUET THROUGH FUTURES TENNIS ACADEMY?
Yes. Futures Tennis Academy can assist with selecting a suitable HEAD racquet and may arrange for it to be delivered to the player's lesson. Speak with the coach or office before purchasing so the correct size and model can be recommended.

WHAT SHOULD PLAYERS BRING TO CLASS?
Players should bring a racquet where available, a filled water bottle and suitable clothing and footwear for physical activity. For outdoor sessions, participants should also bring a hat and apply sunscreen before arriving.

ABSENCES, MAKE-UPS & WEATHER

WHAT HAPPENS IF I CANNOT ATTEND A GROUP CLASS?
The player's absence must be submitted through the customer portal at least three hours before the class starts. Eligible players will receive a make-up. Absences submitted late or after the class has started are not eligible for a make-up.

HOW DO I SUBMIT AN ABSENCE?
Log in to the Futures Tennis Academy customer portal and submit the absence against the relevant booking. The absence must be recorded through the portal at least three hours before the scheduled start time.

HOW DO I BOOK A MAKE-UP LESSON?
Access the customer portal through the ThinkSmart Portal app or the Customer Portal button on the Futures Tennis Academy website. Eligible make-ups will generally appear within 24 hours. Select an available class that is appropriate for the player's level and complete the booking through the portal. The office cannot book make-up lessons on a participant’s behalf.

WHY CAN’T I SEE MY MAKE-UP?
Please allow up to 24 hours after the missed or cancelled class for an eligible make-up to appear. Make sure you are using the same email address provided when the original booking was made. For portal login assistance, contact the office on 0400 737 707.

HOW LONG DO I HAVE TO USE A MAKE-UP CREDIT?
Make-up lessons must be booked and completed within 10 weeks of the original missed or cancelled class. The 10-week period continues during school holiday periods, and all bookings remain subject to class availability.

WHAT HAPPENS IF IT RAINS OR THE TEMPERATURE REACHES 37°C?
If Futures Tennis Academy cancels a class because of rain, unsafe court conditions or a temperature of 37°C or above, players will receive a text message as soon as the decision has been made. If you do not receive a cancellation message, assume that the class will proceed. Eligible make-up credits will be added to the customer portal following a cancellation.

WILL CLASSES PROCEED IN DRIZZLE, WIND, COLD OR WARM WEATHER?
Classes may proceed in light drizzle, wind, cold or warm conditions. A session will only be cancelled when Futures Tennis Academy determines that the weather or court conditions present an unacceptable safety risk. Coaches may adjust the intensity or activities to suit the conditions.

WHAT HAPPENS IF IT BEGINS RAINING AFTER A CLASS HAS STARTED?

Where suitable indoor facilities are available, the coach may continue with an indoor theory-based or modified lesson. If a washout is declared, the remaining affected sessions will be cancelled and eligible make-ups will be issued.

PLAYER DEVELOPMENT & COMPETITION

HOW DOES A PLAYER MOVE INTO A HIGHER-LEVEL CLASS?
Coaches assess players throughout their program. Progression is based on technical development, rallying ability, match skills, maturity and readiness for the next playing environment, rather than age alone. Formal progression is generally reviewed at the end of each semester.

WHO SHOULD I SPEAK TO ABOUT MY CHILD’S PROGRESS?
Speak with the coach about on-court development, class suitability and areas for improvement. Requests for a different coach or other formal feedback should be emailed to the Futures Tennis Academy office.

CAN MY CHILD PLAY COMPETITION AS WELL AS ATTENDING COACHING?
Yes. Competition allows players to apply their skills in real matches and is an important part of development. Futures Tennis Academy offers internal match-play opportunities and pathways into official weekend junior competition.

WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN FRIDAY NIGHT INTERNAL COMPETITION AND WEEKEND JUNIOR COMPETITION?
Friday Night Internal Competition provides a familiar entry point into organised match play within the Futures Tennis Academy environment. Weekend junior competition involves representing a club and playing against teams from other clubs through an organised association competition.

HOW DO I KNOW WHETHER MY CHILD IS READY FOR COMPETITION?
Ask the participant’s coach. The coach will consider whether the player can serve, rally, score and participate independently enough for the relevant competition format.

IS CLUB MEMBERSHIP REQUIRED FOR JUNIOR COMPETITION?
Club membership and a separate competition registration may be required for official weekend competition. Requirements depend on the club and competition entered and will be explained on the relevant registration page.

HOW MUCH NOTICE IS REQUIRED TO CANCEL A PRIVATE LESSON?
The absence must be submitted through the customer portal at least 10 hours before the scheduled start time. When the required notice is provided, an eligible make-up will be issued. If less than 10 hours’ notice is provided, the lesson is forfeited and the full fee remains payable.

HOW LONG DO I HAVE TO USE A PRIVATE-LESSON MAKE-UP?
Eligible private-lesson make-ups must be booked and completed within 10 weeks of the missed lesson, including during school holiday periods. All replacement lessons are subject to coach and court availability.

CAN SOMEONE ATTEND MY PRIVATE LESSON IN MY PLACE?
Yes. If you cannot attend, you may arrange for a family member or friend of a suitable playing level to use the scheduled lesson instead. Please advise the coach or office of the change where possible.

WHAT HAPPENS IF MY PRIVATE LESSON IS CANCELLED BECAUSE OF WEATHER?

If Futures Tennis Academy cancels the lesson because of rain, unsafe court conditions or extreme heat, a make-up will be added to the player's customer portal.

SAFETY, COMMUNICATION & GENERAL INFORMATION

WHAT QUALIFICATIONS AND SAFETY CHECKS DO FUTURES TENNIS ACADEMY COACHES HOLD?
Futures Tennis Academy coaches hold valid Working with Children Checks, First Aid-certificates and Tennis Australia-accreditation. Coaches also participate in ongoing mentoring and professional development.

HOW WILL I BE NOTIFIED ABOUT CANCELLATIONS OR IMPORTANT CLASS INFORMATION?
Important notices are generally sent to the mobile number or email address recorded on the player's account. Families should ensure their contact details remain current and should check messages before travelling when weather conditions are uncertain.

WHAT SHOULD I DO IF SOMETHING HAS BEEN LEFT AT A VENUE?
Contact the office or speak with the coach as soon as possible and provide a description of the item and the venue where it was left. Lost-property arrangements vary between venues, and Futures Tennis Academy cannot guarantee that an item will be located.