Welcome to Gladiator Tennis! If you're brand new to the game — or just stepping into your first competitive tennis match — we’ve got your back.
Gladiator is a flex league designed for real life. Whether you’re a casual player looking to get better, or someone who’s never played a full match before, this guide will walk you through what to expect, what to bring, how to play, and how to feel confident out there.
Flex League 101: What Is a Flex League Anyway?
At Gladiator Tennis, a flex league means:
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You schedule matches around your life. You’ll coordinate with your weekly opponent to find a time and location that works for both of you.
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You typically play one match per week. Don’t worry — if you’re traveling or swamped, you can play your matches ahead of time, or out of order.
For example, you can play your Week 5 Match during Week 1. Gladiator is known for flexibility, so take advantage and get your matches in! -
Your match is official, but casual. There’s a winner, but there’s no umpire and no pressure. It’s tennis on your terms.
- Your matches are at your skill level, close to your home. Half of your matches are at your "Home Court" (chosen why you sign up) and the rest are "Away" within a 20-minute drive.
You’ll get an email when your schedule is released — and then it’s game on.
What to Expect: Your Match Flow
Here’s what your first match will look like:
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Warm up for 5–10 minutes: Rally from the baseline, take turns hitting a couple volleys and overheads, then warm up some serves.
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Decide who serves first: The most common way is to spin a racket and the other player can call up or down. The other player then gets to choose which side of the court to start from.
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Play best 2 out of 3 sets: If it’s 6-6, play a tiebreak (first to 7, win by 2).
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Split sets? Gladiators play out the 3rd set unless both players agree to play a 10 point tiebreaker (first to 10, win by 2). This rewards players who have better endurance and stamina which is part of the game.
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Submit your score before the weekly deadline (both players are responsible).
Pro Tip: You can play a Fast 4 match (first to 4 games) if you're short on time — but only if both players agree.
What to Bring on Match Day
A beginner’s match-day packing list:
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Tennis racket
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Tennis shoes (non-marking soles)
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Water bottle
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Hat/sunscreen
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Towel/snack (optional but helpful)
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Phone (for contacting opponent & score entry)
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NEW can of balls (Home player provides this)
Bonus tip: Some players bring a second racket just in case a string breaks. Not necessary, but nice to have once you’re hooked!
Match Etiquette: The Gladiator Way
All Gladiator matches are self-officiated, which means you and your opponent keep score and make calls. Here’s how to keep it smooth:
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Make line calls fairly on your side of the net.
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If it’s close and you’re unsure, call the ball "in."
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Say the score out loud before each point.
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Disagree on the score? Go back to the last agreed-upon point and continue.
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Be respectful — win or lose, always end with a fist bump, handshake or friendly nod.
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Rate your opponent’s sportsmanship after the match with the new Honor Score system.
And remember, unsportsmanlike conduct isn’t tolerated. If anything feels off, reach out to the League Coordinator.
Nervous? Totally Normal — Here’s How to Relax
We get it — walking into your first real match can be nerve-wracking. But guess what? You’re not alone.
Most new players feel a little anxious at first. What matters is showing up. Everyone in the league started somewhere — and Gladiators are welcoming, helpful, and happy to rally with a beginner.
To ease the nerves:
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Think of the match as a practice. Every point is progress.
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You can ask questions — players will help guide you.
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Focus on consistency and direction more than power. You don't need to hit winners - aim for a target with each shot and you will make less errors and win more points!
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Remind yourself why you joined. To get outside, stay active, and meet new people, etc.
Final Advice: Keep Showing Up
The first match might feel nerve-wracking. But by the third? You’ll be laughing at how nervous you were.
Gladiator Tennis is about learning, growing, and connecting through competition that fits your life. The more you play, the more confident you’ll feel — and the better your game will get.
If you have questions, our team is always just an email away. And if you finish your first match and think, That was awesome — you’re officially hooked. Welcome to the tribe. 🏆
