If you’re an adult who’s always wanted to learn tennis (not just hit a ball around), I may have found your spot. Forget those stuffy country club lessons. 821 Tennis has a whole different energy. Picture this: You’re outdoors at a beautiful park, the sun is shining, and your instructor actually makes learning your forehand FUN. No judgment if you fail a few swings (we all do!), they’re all about helping you get better, step by step.
From Zero to Tennis Hero (Well, Maybe Not Quite)
I came to 821 Tennis as a total beginner. Yes, I’d taken some lessons when I lived in Chicago, but let’s just say my form was…not great. Founder Emily Morgan started 821 Tennis precisely because she realized Miami lacked places for adults to learn the game properly. Their Fundamentals class was EXACTLY what I needed.
The first confession? I didn’t even grip the racket correctly. It sounds basic, but those early moments were a humbling reminder of how much I had to learn. Bojan, my instructor, patiently explained proper grip technique, and let me tell you, that wrist position felt downright weird at first. Muscles I never knew existed were screaming!
But here’s the amazing part: By my second class, I already felt a difference in my forehand. It wasn’t perfect by any means, but Bojan identified a key issue – my elbow was way too close to my body. Again, it sounds simple, but that small adjustment made a world of difference. I also started focusing on my follow-through, something I never even considered before.
The beauty of 821’s teaching style is that it’s clear, concise, and easy to translate to home practice. Bojan doesn’t overload you with information, he breaks things down into digestible chunks. I left every session with a clear understanding of what to work on, and the confidence that with practice, I could actually improve.
Bonus: Patience is a Virtue
Let’s talk about Bojan’s teaching style for a moment. He’s not just knowledgeable, he’s incredibly patient. There were times when I missed a shot so badly, it would have been comical if it weren’t so embarrassing. But Bojan never made me feel discouraged. Instead, he’d just offer a quick pointer, a word of encouragement, and keep the positive vibes flowing.That patience, mixed with his clear instruction, is a huge part of why I enjoy the classes so much, and why I’m actually excited to keep learning and improving.
Good Vibes Only
Here’s the thing: 821 Tennis feels like a crew, not a snobby club. Everyone cheers each other on, and they truly make it feel welcoming even if you’re clueless on day one. People chat before class even starts, and I’ve already made a few tennis buddies to practice with outside of lessons. The regulars rave about how much 821 has helped them improve, which is super encouraging. They do fun events too, and even have a Spain retreat coming up later this year (hello, tennis vacay!).
More Than Just Tennis: 821 Gives Back
821 Tennis isn’t just about improving your backhand. They’re deeply involved in giving back to the Miami community. Their “Let’s Talk Tennis” volunteer program offers free tennis coaching to local kids in MiMo and Upper East Side areas, introducing them to the sport in a fun and accessible way. 821 also collaborates with other non-profits throughout the year on initiatives that align with their focus on wellness, movement and community building. If you’re looking to get involved, you can reach out to them at info@821tennis.com.
This really resonates with me. Tennis sometimes has a reputation as an elitist sport, where access is about cost and country clubs. I love that 821 is actively working to break down those barriers, giving kids who might not otherwise have the chance to have a positive first experience with tennis.
The Miami Tennis Advantage
Legion Park is the perfect spot for tennis. Ocean breezes, plenty of parking (a Miami miracle!), and after class you can even hit up the farmer’s market happening right there.
The Beginner (and Beyond) Verdict
If you’re ready to ditch the “just get it over net” approach and learn real tennis, 821 is worth checking out. They make it fun, focus on building your skills the right way, and their adult-centered approach is a breath of fresh air in the Miami tennis scene.
