What to buy for a tennis tournament

A tennis tournament needs more than tennis balls and rackets. You will need equipment for matches, a clear registration point, refreshments, seating and reliable power for schedules and announcements. Buy or gather everything early enough to check quantities and charge devices before players arrive. This list covers the practical supplies behind the tournament plan, including spare gear, serving items, cooling equipment and weather protection.

The full checklist for this plan is being updated. The tips and answers below still apply.

Tips

Plan on at least 3 tennis balls per court in play, plus a separate reserve so a lost or damaged ball does not delay a match. Keep reserve tennis rackets available for players who arrive without suitable equipment.
Prepare one scorekeeping setup for every active court, with spare pens or charged tablets nearby. Test the laptops, tablets and mobile chargers before the first registration slot.
For drinks, provide reusable cups and enough cooling capacity for the full day. Chill the first batch before arrival and keep a second batch in coolers so refreshments do not run out during the later matches.
Set out plates, cutlery, serving platters and serving tongs before preparing fruit and snacks. Keep coffee cups, kettles and thermos flasks together at the drinks station rather than packing them away with general kitchen supplies.
Check the practical site items at least one day ahead: party tents, tables, chairs, waste bins, tablecloths, extension cords and power strips. Bring enough cable length to keep the sound system and registration equipment away from walkways and wet areas.

Frequently asked questions

How many tennis balls do I need for a tournament?: Start with at least 3 balls per active court, then add a reserve of 1 new can or equivalent supply for every 2 courts. For a four-court tournament, that means at least 12 balls in play plus backup balls.
What refreshments should I buy for a tennis tournament?: Buy water and other drinks for the full playing period, plus fruit and easy-to-serve snacks. As a planning minimum, allow 2 to 3 drinks per participant during the first hour and keep extra stock chilled for delays or hot weather.
Do I need spare tennis rackets at a tournament?: Yes. Have at least 2 reserve tennis rackets available for a small tournament, and add more if participants are borrowing equipment. Check grips and strings no later than the day before the event.
When should I prepare the tournament equipment?: Complete the main shopping and equipment check at least 1 day before the tournament. Chill drinks, charge laptops and tablets, and test the microphone and mobile sound system on the morning of the event.