At what age can my child start Tennis Lessons?

The best age to start tennis lessons for a child is between 4 and 7 years old. At this age, children have developed the basic motor skills necessary to learn the fundamentals of tennis, such as hand-eye coordination, balance, and footwork. They are also starting to develop the cognitive skills necessary to understand and follow instructions. Of course, every child is different, and some children may be ready to start tennis lessons earlier or later than others. It is important to consider your child's individual needs and interests when deciding when to start them in tennis lessons. Here are some factors to consider when deciding if your child is ready for tennis lessons: Physical development: Is your child able to run, jump, and catch a ball? Do they have good hand-eye coordination and balance? Cognitive development: Is your child able to understand and follow instructions? Can they focus for short periods of time? Interest: Is your child interested in playing tennis? Do they enjoy being active and learning new skills?

How much do Tennis Lessons cost?

The cost of tennis lessons can vary depending on a number of factors, including the experience of the coach, the type of lesson (private, group, or semi-private), and the number of lessons taken per week. Experience of the coach: More experienced tennis coaches typically charge higher rates than less experienced tennis coaches. This is because more experienced tennis coaches have a deeper knowledge of the game and are better equipped to teach players of all skill levels. Type of lesson: Private tennis lessons are typically the most expensive type of lesson, followed by semi-private tennis lessons and then group tennis lessons. Private tennis lessons allow the coach to give the player their full attention and tailor the lesson to the player's individual needs. Semi-private tennis lessons allow the coach to give each player more attention than they would in a group tennis lesson, but the cost is still lower than private tennis lessons. Group tennis lessons are the most affordable type of tennis lesson, but the coach is able to give each player less individual attention.

How long is a typical Tennis Lesson at Rivera Tennis Academy?

The duration of tennis lessons and timelines for completion vary depending on the lesson type, age group, and individual needs. For example, a beginner's lesson may be shorter than an advanced lesson, and a child's lesson may be shorter than an adult's lesson.

Does Rivera Tennis Academy have a pro shop?

Rivera Tennis Academy carries a wide range of Babolat products, including racquets, apparel, and accessories. We are also authorized Babolat dealers, so we can procure any additional Babolat items upon request. We understand that every player is different, so we are committed to helping you find the perfect Babolat equipment to meet your individual needs.

Does Rivera Tennis Academy offer any social events or activities for players?

Rivera Tennis Academy hosts a variety of leagues and local tournaments that are open to players of all skill levels and age groups, providing a competitive outlet for players of all abilities to test their skills and improve their game.

Does Rivera Tennis Academy have a stringing service?

Yes, Rivera Tennis Academy offers stringing service

Rivera Tennis Team

Tennis Team – Alfredo Rivera

Our Director

Alfredo Rivera, 57 years old with over 30 years experience as a coach, has worked with the French Tennis Federation and coached ATP and ITF players. Born in Santiago, Chile, he began playing tennis at the age of 3 and represented his country internationally from the age of 12. He went on to become an ATP player, and after retiring from professional tennis, he studied physical preparation in France. Rivera worked with the French Tennis Federation as a teacher in charge of the Bourgogne region, and was also the Head Pro at Quito Tennis and Golf Club in Ecuador. He was the founder of three high-performance tennis academies in Ecuador: Rivera Tennis Academy, Head Pro Rancho San Francisco, and Head Pro Jacaranda Tennis Club. Rivera has coached ATP and ITF players, both men and women, and was a coach on the European tour with Lorenzo Cava. He was also the coach of the Chilean team at the 1991 COSAT Circuit, with 24 players under his supervision, including Marcelo Ríos.
Rivera is a passionate and dedicated tennis coach who is committed to helping his players reach their full potential.

“Everything I have learned has been through my life experiences with tennis, whether it has been playing the game myself as an professional, coaching elite players, working with adults, motivating my Tennis Team, organizing events, etc. In short, I love tennis and want to dream with each of my students and make those dreams come true”.

Rivera Tennis Team and Coaches

Ivett Donoso

Tennis Team – Coach, Operation Manager

Ivett brings a unique blend of high-level tennis experience and astute business acumen to her role as Tennis Team Coach and Operations Manager. As a former college All-American and MVP, she dominated in both singles and doubles, achieving a #1 ranking at Nova and earning a spot at Nationals as a singles player. This competitive background, combined with her degree in Business Administration, makes her the ideal leader to manage the academy’s administrative operations while actively contributing to the coaching staff. Ivett’s core philosophy, forged through years of competition, is that tennis inherently builds character and offers invaluable life lessons, both on and off the court. She is passionate about sharing these insights and helping players navigate the challenges and triumphs of the game and of life.

Ara Schmaltz

Tennis Team – Coach, Admin Assistant

With a robust background as a Holistic Nutritionist, Personal Trainer, and Group Fitness Instructor since 2013, Ara Schmaltz is a multifaceted coach originally from Mexico City. She’s a seasoned tennis player herself, having competed in adult leagues for over 10 years, and she now channels that experience into coaching our red and orange ball groups, focusing keenly on technique and coordination. Ara also provides valuable support with administrative tasks, aiding the Operations Manager. Her personal motto, “Here To Serve You,” reflects her commitment to servant leadership, which extends to her work with a homeless ministry in downtown Houston.

Sebastian Trujillo

Tennis Team – Tennis Coach

Born in Bogota, Colombia, Sebastian Trujillo brings a lifetime of tennis experience to his role as a coach. He developed his game over eight years at the Rivera Tennis Academy, which laid the foundation for a strong competitive junior career, including a top 1000 ranking in Spain (U12/U14) and participation in ITF Junior events (ranking 2300). Sebastian continues to actively compete, spending summers playing tournaments across France. His hands-on experience at the highest levels of the sport is further demonstrated by his work as a hitting partner at the 2023 ATP Houston 250, where he trained with notable pros like Denis Kudla, Dustin Brown, and Daniel Galan. For the last two years, Sebastian has been a vital part of our coaching staff, specializing in the development of our elite group of players.

Devin Mendez

Tennis Team – Tennis Coach

Devin Mendez, a rising star in the tennis world, transitions his extensive competitive experience into impactful coaching. A product of five years of training with Alfredo, Devin has rapidly ascended the ranks, achieving a top 50 national ranking in the USTA Men’s Open division and a top 5 ranking in Texas in 2024. His competitive resume also includes ITF events, a ranking of 15 on the French circuit, and a UTR of 9 (as of 2025), alongside collegiate play at Atlantis University (NCAA Division II).
Beyond the court, Devin is pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Accounting at the University of Houston. Driven by his motto, “Whatever you do, do it to your best ability,” he expects his students to embrace hard work and respect as they pursue their own aspirations. Devin’s long-term goal is to compete professionally worldwide, and he hopes to leave a legacy as a positive role model and a coach who is both challenging and deeply committed to his students’ success.

Perla Gomez

Tennis Team – Tennis Coach

Perla Elizondo is a dedicated Mexican-American tennis coach specializing in fundamental skills for red and orange ball players. With four years of personal playing experience, Perla’s passion for coaching children was sparked when her own kids began their tennis journey at Rivera Tennis Academy. She understands firsthand the parent’s perspective, approaching her role with genuine empathy.
Holding a Bachelor’s degree in Preschool Education, Perla skillfully blends her educational expertise with her love for tennis to create engaging and effective lessons. Her motto, “Live each day as if your life just had begun,” reflects her vibrant approach to coaching, ensuring that learning is always enjoyable and impactful for her young athletes.

Lucia Garcia

Tennis Team – Tennis Coach

Originally from Spain, Lucia Garcia brings a wealth of experience and a lifelong passion for tennis to her coaching. Lucia began playing at the age of eight, setting the foundation for a distinguished playing career that encompassed ITF tournaments, the Summer Series, USTA competitions, junior college, and NCAA Division I tennis.
Lucia’s deep connection to the sport was further cultivated during her time as a student at the Rivera Tennis Academy, where she trained from age 12 until she transitioned to collegiate play. This extensive background provides her with a unique understanding of player development at all levels.
As a coach, Lucia is dedicated to providing quality instruction and is committed to helping her students reach their full potential. She draws upon her diverse playing experience to guide athletes, whether they’re just starting out or aiming for advanced competition.

Lars Benthem

Tennis Team – Tennis Coach

Lars Benthem is a dedicated coach with 14 years of playing tennis experience, originally hailing from Michigan. His deep connection with Rivera Tennis Academy began during his high school years, where he was inspired to join the academy after observing Alfredo and Ivett’s coaching. A formidable high school athlete, Lars was the Line 1 singles player every year and was recruited to play college tennis at Gordon College in Boston. He also showcased his versatility in high school by competing in basketball and swimming.
Beyond the court, Lars is the founder and owner of Houston Mosquito Guard. He lives by the principle of constant improvement and strives to be remembered for his strong work ethic and his positive impact on those around him. In his coaching, Lars looks for players who are coachable, compete with intensity, and are committed to consistent improvement.

Junior Tennis Lessons

Kids Tennis Lessons

Adult Tennis Lessons

Private Tennis Lessons

Elite Tennis Lessons

Homeschool Tennis Lessons

Rivera Tennis Academy

5.0

Based on 18 Reviews

Sebas Trujillo

I've been practicing at Rivera Tennis Academy for 5 years. This Tennis Academy is a great environment for players of different levels and goals, whether your playing for fun, starting to play or want a reach higher levels such as college or pro. Alfred and their team are the best coaches I've had.

Roberta Klvac

I am so happy to give a recommendation to this great program. The reasons are many, so let me start by saying I am a tennis player and I have played for many years. That means I’ve been in many facilities. . This community of people running the program are all professional athletes. Google their names to see what they have accomplished, and know that they are doing this because of the love of the sport, and the desire to pass on what they know to the next generation. 2. I have watched children and adults in many programs. I have been associated with country clubs, private clubs, and just school clubs. If you observe the children and the pros, you can see their love for the sport or their need for the job. You can also see the behavior of young children and teens. Here at Rivera, you will see pros who love their children, and act and insist on polite and respectful behavior. You don’t see that other places. 3. Please come and take a look and observe. Call them and ask what a good time to see a group practicing and getting direction. Observe the way the pros interact lovingly and clearly with the children in the program. I cannot say enough about this program and wish I had known about it sooner.

Jacqueline Turner

The Rivera Academy has been my tennis home in Houston, TX for the past 6 years. From the time I met Alfredo and his team and started training in his program, my game really took off. In 2019 My UTR level rose to 10.5 and I achieved the #1 women's TX Open level ranking. From there, Alfredo convinced me I could have a good experience if I turned Pro and play ITF events. I trained full time and achieved a world ranking, which I thought I'd never have. I achieved a lifelong dream when I chose to train with Alfredo. Unfortunately I slipped early on and tore the cartilage in my wrist that required TFCC surgery, but the surgery was a success and now I'm back playing pain free. I would highly recommended the Rivera Tennis Academy to anyone looking to achieve their tennis goals. A big thank you to Alfredo, Ivette, and Rikki for 6 years of good times. Good luck to anybody who also wants to have a good time meeting their tennis goals. - Jacqueline Turner

Sandra Hughes

This is a special tennis group. Something for everyone. Great seasoned pros

Marian Depaula Gomez

I've played here for more than a year now and I love it. The pros are friendly, very knowledgeable, and capable of teaching players of all levels. I have started as a beginner and it has improved my skills greatly and it’s a blast. I strongly recommend Rivera Tennis Academy with overall excellent experience!!!

Kathe Wells

Rivera is a top quality tennis coach, and everyone there is very experienced. If you are interested in learning tennis or improving your game, this is the place to be! Excellent value and very friendly people. Great for children and adults alike.

Ivett Mayfe Donoso

Rivera Tennis Academy has been my second home for 15 incredible years as a coach, administrator, and co-owner. Working alongside director and owner Alfredo Rivera has been an honor beyond words. Under Alfredo's visionary leadership, the academy has redefined tennis coaching. His passion and expertise inspire everyone around him. The entire staff upholds a standard of excellence that's truly exceptional. The academy's commitment to player development is unparalleled. Our programs cater to all levels, incorporating cutting-edge techniques and technologies. But it's the sense of family that sets us apart. As a co-owner, I'm proud of the strides we've taken together. Alfredo's mentorship and the team's dedication have created an institution that's a true gem in the tennis community. Rivera Tennis Academy is more than a place of coaching; it's a space of growth, unity, and achievement, my second home !

Lydia Sims

At the Rivera Tennis Academy the coaches are there to help you bring out your best. They greet you like you are family with a warm and friendly smile. Their tennis knowledge is superb. Their love for the game of tennis is infectious. They show you that if you love tennis, it will love you back!

Hector Ramirez

Great place for Tennis training with excellent coaches!

Teresa Brady

I love my Tennis family that Rivera Tennis Academy has brought together. Every Saturday after adult drills we play matches together practicing what our Rivera coaches have taught us. Coach Riki and Coach Ivett create drill scenarios that we can use in our matches. Come join us!

Gaby Dorough

I seriously wish I had found this place YEARS ago. They have great dedicated coaches who focus on technique while still making sure everyone in the class has a good time. Students are given time with different coaches (including conditioning!) And often get one-on-one attention. The biggest plus for me is that my kids and I can have our own classes at the same time...so everyone wins!

Karem Lopez

The Rivera Tennis Academy is not only excellent from a technical standpoint when it comes to tennis, but Alfredo Rivera also brings his experience and enthusiasm to the courts every day. He works with everyone, from beginners to advanced students. My daughters have been at the Academy since 2020, and now both of them are part of the Varsity team in High School. The Rivera Academy is more than just a tennis academy; they treat everyone with enthusiasm, respect, motivation, and perhaps even more importantly, like family. We totally recommend the Academy.

Perla Elizondo

My kids love Rivera Tennis Academy! They have great sports psychology, make class entertaining for all levels and provide safe and fun place for my kiddos to enjoy the tennis sport. The coaching team is amazing and hardworking! I highly recommend their program.