Can my coach or parent coach me during a match?
Rule- South Africa
- Tennis South Africa
- ITF World Tennis Tour Juniors
- Juniors 13-18
- ITF Rules of Tennis
- 2026
- Players
On-court coaching is never allowed during a match (including the warm-up).
Off-court coaching (from the stands or a designated area) depends on the grade:
| Grade | Off-court coaching |
|---|---|
| J100, J200, J300, J500 and Junior Grand Slams | Allowed in qualifying and main draw, with or without a Chair Umpire |
| J30 and J60 | Allowed only in matches with a Chair Umpire |
| All other matches | Not allowed |
Where it is allowed, under the ITF Rules of Tennis:
- Never during a point.
- Between points it must be brief and discreet: spoken only when coach and player are at the same end of the court, or by hand signals.
- Not during an extreme heat 10-minute break.
Coaching in breach of these rules is a code violation against you, and "coach" includes any relative or representative. Coaches also must not swear, make obscene gestures, or abuse officials, opponents or spectators.
Added 21 Oct 2026