Saddlebrook Resort has a well-deserved reputation for staging one of the most—if not, the most—demanding tennis programs on the planet. The underlying philosophy owes much to the training techniques of the legendary Australian Davis Cup coach and notorious taskmaster Harry Hopman. His was a taxing regimen designed at once to improve technique and push the envelope of his charge’s stamina and endurance. That reputation for toughness draws aspiring juniors to its academy and committed adults, the latter attracted to the blend of rigorous workouts and Saddlebrook’s full resort amenities.
Saddlebrook Resort garnered awards for its design when it opened in 1981. The 480-acre layout, 25 miles north of Tampa, places the lodging, restaurants, shops, a lakesize swimming pool, tennis courts, spa, golf clubhouse, and meeting rooms at the center of a halo of golf fairways, condos, and residential neighborhoods. Centralizing all of the major amenities creates what they call a “Walking Village.” Foliage is lush, ponds and lakes dot the property, and birds are abundant, including several endangered species for which this is a refuge and a rookery.
This is hardly the setting you’d expect for the mother of all hard-core tennis camps, but having all those amenities provides relief from the rigors of the daily regimen while its guard gate provides privacy and security—one reason touring pros visit between tournaments to work on their games. Its juniors, both live-in and short term, hope the program will set them on the road to greatness (or at least a college scholarship), while adults come looking to get in shape, test their physical mettle, or perhaps search for a magic elixir to cure, once and for all, the flaws in their game. It is also often true that the adults frequently underestimate the physical demands a program like this makes, and that even though none has ever in his or her life played five hours of tennis a day, they somehow think they are ready for five hours a day of drills.
Although the historical philosophy of the program has to push you to the point that your game breaks down, find what is salvageable in the rubble, and rebuild from there. That said, after my last visit I came away thinking that this approach has mellowed somewhat in recent years. In my early participation in the Hopman program, as it was known then, I remember being chastised for ignoring a feed too wide for me to reach, only to have the next fed wider until I learned that it was crucial to make an attempt even when you thought you had no chance of reaching the balls. I remember, too, the so-called “bucket of ball” drills and “kamikaze” drills that had you scampering right and left and back again until you pleaded exhaustion or the pro was convinced you’d had enough.
My sense is that while the regimen remains demanding, the boot-camp approach has been abandoned. None of the pros on my latest visit adopted an in-your-face drill sergeant’s demeanor (though I was told that if that’s what you want, it is available). Instead, they established key concepts essential to hitting well—early preparation, eyes on the ball, full follow-through—and then ran drills and competitive exercises to put those concepts into practice. Still, there were times when we were grateful for the break afforded by the need to pick up balls.
Although there are exceptions, you typically stay with the same pro throughout your stay (barring his or her days off), so they oversee your progress first-hand. They tailor the work to the abilities of the campers they oversee. Rather than stand in one place and hit picture-perfect strokes, you pretty much have to run for every ball. Like the pros, you’ll do a lot of two-on-one drills, and if your skills permit it live-ball drills and competitive games with the other campers on your court. The process can be exhilarating, demoralizing, or both, but you will come away from this program knowing where you stand with respect to your aerobic conditioning and what you really need to do to take your game to the next level.
If courts alone were the measure of a great tennis resort, then Saddlebrook would rank near the top. It has 45 courts altogether, including hard, clay, red clay, Rebound Ace (the surface formerly used at the Australian Open) and grass, all of which—the grass included—are available to guests. The major complex is near the center of the resort. There is a secondary complex a mile away in Lakeside Village, which is also the site of the 3,000-square-foot fitness center and high-performance complex and where the juniors enrolled in the academy work out. All of the courts are laid out in clusters of two to five separated by an awning-covered patio furnished with chairs and a refrigerated water fountain.
Tennis Staff: Although Harry Hopman, the legendary Australian Davis Cup coach, died in 1985, the organization he built survives. The core group of staff, many longtime Saddlebrook pros, expands and contracts based on how many adults are enrolled in the programs—as many as are needed to keep the student:pro ratio at 4:1 of less.
Tennis Programs: Although the resort itself offers some perfunctory stroke-of-the-day clinics (run by tennis-academy staff), the real reason a tennis player would come here is the Hopman-inspired camps.
Unlike some other dedicated facilities and college-campus programs, Hopman’s does not include any meals in the package, so for other dining you’re left to fend for yourself at the quite good but pricey restaurants at the resort itself or pile into cars for trips beyond the resort. Caveat: The Saddlebrook program can be among the most physically demanding of all the camps, so start a workout regimen weeks before you come down. Bring two pairs of tennis shoes, several changes of clothes (washers and dryers are available in each lodging cluster), a hat, sunblock, two racquets if you have them (broken strings are commonplace), and overgrip.
Off Court
Golf Courses: Saddlebrook has two 18-hole courses, both designed by Arnold Palmer, and an Arnold Palmer Golf Academy. Tee times for any of the following courses can be reserved.
Palmer Course: This course is characterized by open, undulating fairways, and an abundance of lakes, streams and ponds. Par: 71. Length: 5,212-6,469 yards.
Saddlebrook Course: Though flatter than the Palmer course, this one is also tighter, with tree-lined fairways and water on most of its holes. Par: 70. Length: 5,183-6,603 yards.
Spa & Fitness Center: The 7,000-square-foot Spa in the walking village has 12 treatment rooms offering massages, hydrotherapy treatments, and some beauty services; however, it is currently closed. Campers who can still walk at the end of the day are welcome to use the 3,300-square-foot, state-of-the-art fitness center in Lakeside Village, a 10-minute walk from the Superpool, but it’s rate that anyone does so. It has a full line of Cybex equipment plus treadmills, stair steppers, recumbent bicycles, elliptical trainers, and rubber-encased freeweights all in rooms with views of a swimming pool or volley ball pit. Personal trainers are on hand to help you craft a workout regimen. There is also an adjacent high-performance sports center, which offers specialized training programs often to professional athletes.
The centerpiece of the resort is its half-million-gallon, amoeba-shaped Superpool, said to be the largest in Florida. At 270 feet long, it is vast enough to contain a 25-meter lap pool, water volleyball and water basketball courts, and a diving area. Around it are children’s wading pools and two heated whirlpools. There is another swimming pool near the Sports Village & Fitness Center. Otherwise, recreation run to bike trails around the property and bass fishing in the privately stocked lakes.
Children's programs: The S’Kids Club operates year round providing supervised activities for kids ages 4-12.
Dining: The TD’s Sports Bar has light fare and serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Dempsey’s Steakhouse is currently closed; however it’s menu prime beef and seafood is available at TD’s Sports Bar. There’s also a pool bar for lunch and poolside cocktails.
Accommodations
There are a total of 790 rooms and suites at Saddlebrook, most of them in 50-unit clusters variously arrayed near the main clubhouse and pool, or out along the golf fairways. Each cluster has an ice machine and washer/dryer. The most basic accommodation is a hotel room with two double beds and a private balcony or patio. The alternatives are one- and two-bedroom suites (which anywhere else would be called condos). These have full kitchens (with coffee makers and dishwashers; most have microwaves, if not you can request one), separate living and dining areas, and one or two bedrooms, each with a full bath. The living room opens onto a patio or balcony. High-speed Internet access is available throughout the resort.
Anyone who enrolls in the Saddlebrook International Tennis program is eligible for discounted room rates. By booking tennis and lodging together, you get a deluxe guest room, 5 hours/day of intensive tennis, complimentary court time, daily lunch, and access to the fitness center and spa. One- and two-bedroom suites with full kitchens are also available.
Getting there
Seasons: The resort and its Hopman tennis programs operate year-round; however, given the grueling nature of these clinics, you should think twice about coming in summer—unless, of course, you want to work out in hot, humid conditions. Principally for that reason, the camps are generally two to three times larger during the fall, winter, and spring than in summer.
Hopman tennis camp (3 and 5 hour programs) is a great way to improve your game, if placed in the appropriate group and with a instructor interested in instructing. Level of play for the camp depends on the number of entrants and can make or break your time at the camp. Had a private lesson with Peter Billingham who is an exceptional teaching pro. He catered the lesson to my needs and brought a level of enthusiasm that is often lacking with some pros. Figures out what your strengths are and works within them, while developing your weaknesses. Overall, would love to take more lessons with him.
DP
This was my first tennis camp. The camp was very organized. The coaches were great teachers to work with. They were flexible in their instruction to include areas that I had special interest in. The food was great. I enjoyed eating in front of a Banyan tree with 50 Wood Storks nesting in it with their chicks. The weather was perfect. Great experience.
JR
I recently spent a week at Saddlebrook (my third visit in 3 years, I continue to enjoy the exceptional teaching staff (Tai is exceptional – just the right mix of hard work, teaching, and humor). I highly recommend Saddlebrook
MO
I gained so much at the camp … from each pro I met! Howard and Mark were certainly accomodating, knowledgable, and able to pass that knowledge to me so that I could retain it and take it home for daily use! As a teaching pro, I thought Ni was fantastic! He was energetic and encouraging with valuable drills and customized tips for everyone in our group. He didn’t just feed us balls … he hit with us. His insights while we hit live balls was exceptionial! I can’t wait to return!
JS
I am just wrapping up my twentieth year visiting Saddlebrook Tennis. There is no other tennis camp I would ever consider going to. Howard and his crew are the most accommodating, congenial professionals who run a tennis program with highly skilled pros where I learn something new every time I come. I highly recommend Saddlebrook Tennis!
AW
My husband, daughter (age 17) and I all had a great time at Saddlebrook. The coaches are fantastic – great teachers and fun. We all learnt a huge amount as well as enjoying ourselves enormously.
NL
I recently spent a week at Saddlebrook in the intensive 5hrs a day programme. Thoroughly enjoyed the experience and was lucky enough to work with some great coaches. Mark M was superb and achieved a perfect balance of technical instruction and drills. John, Oleg, Scott and Peter were also excellent. All in all a very friendly and well-informed team. My boys very much enjoyed the coaching of Larry and Alvaro in the junior programme. Howard, the resident tennis director, runs a very professional operation and his enthusiasm permeates the programme.
LE
I’ve been enjoying the benefits of Saddlebrook tennis camp for the last ten years….my game has only gotten better and better thanks to the Hopman program and the talent of the pros’who seem to be able to figure out what you need to work on in a minute!! I’ve also gotten the opportunity to work with one coach(Mark Magone)over the last many years. His keen eye and teaching technigues along with my commitment to improving has been a recipe for success! I highly recommned Saddlebrook Tennis(Hopman) as well as the beautiful resort setting.
SR
This was my second time attending the Saddlebrook Hopman Program (my wife has been going for over a decade). The teaching pros are extremely knowledgable and quickly perceive the specific things to work on in order to improve your game. They work you hard but make learning fun. The Hopman Program is tried and true and all of the teaching pros are well schooled in the approach. The setting and courts are beautiful. I would highly recommend Saddlebrook.
VM
This was my second visit to the Saddlebrook Hopman tennis program. I was so impressed the first time I came (April 2011) that I brought my entire family along with me for the second visit (April 2012). My wife (level 2.5), my 3 children (levels 3.5, 2.5, and 2.5), and I (level 4.0) all had wonderful and fruitful experiences with our respective pros and the Hopman team. Each of the 5 hour tennis sessions contained a healthy balance of drills and point play and I can honestly say that all of us came away with better tennis abilities than what we arrived there with. I am truly thankful to Howard Moore and all of the Saddlebrook staff who were most accomodating to our requests. We received personalized attention both on and off the courts. I would like to highlight a couple of the people that my family and I had particularly good interactions with. The pro who worked with me was Peter Billingham. He is a new member of the Hopman staff, completing his college tennis career not long ago. He was simiply SPECTACULAR. I have taken many tennis lessions and been a part of several clinics but never have I had so much fun and learned so much from one individual. He drilled strokes just long enough for my group and me to get our muscle memory going but spent the bulk of the time during each session on strategy and point play. He, himself, participated in the points (rather than simply acting as a ball feeder) and made it challenging and fun. His love for tennis was obvious and absolutely infectious. In fact, I was so impressed by Peter that I requested that my eldest son be moved out of the junior grouping so that he could spend our last day with Pete as well. Peter is a testament to the quality of new, fresh pros that join the Saddlebrook staff each year. My younger children said that Larry was their favorite. He was the most “clinical” in helping them improve their skills but also made it a point that the children enjoyed themselves. Their fondest memory was that Larry let them play “the circuit”: hard courts, red clay, and on grass! The only constructive comment I would offer is to improve the on-site restaurant / menu choices. I must point out, however, that I chose saddlebrook for the outstanding tennis program and not the food / restaurant offerings. Overall, I would highly recommend Saddlebrook tennis resort to any individual or family who wants to improve their tennis game(s). Though it is pricey, Saddlebrook was worth every penny that I spent.
KM
My daughter and I had a great time at Saddlebrook. We were both well matched with players of similar skill level. We were given the opportunity to work on every level of our games and hit so many balls! Our instructors were energetic and motivating; we were happily worn out at the end of the week!
DY
Great place to improve your game and learn subtleties in technique.So much opportunity to practice as well as playing out points. The teaching staff’s diversity really helps in delivering an excellent variety of perspectives on the game. Have been going there for almost 30years. No other tennis facility that I’ve attended so far has matched Hopman’s intense level of training. The pro shop is very knowledgeable and the Hopman office is not only personable but very helpful.
KV
Excellent instruction, thorough and well dictated. Playing on clay for daily clinics was a real knee saver for me as a senior player and a welcome change from hard court, high altitude conditions at home in Jackson Hole. Tennis shop had a very limited selection of ladies apparel which was a surprise for such a well known resort. I would definitely come back to Saddlebrook to keep working on my game.
FV
we came from france for a 5days tennis camp in feb/march and we enjoyed a lot the intensity of this programm, my 10years son worked a lot on all the court with many different instructors, did a lot of very good drills and was very well counselled, supported and pushed to give his best on the court.he came back exhausted but asked me to come back as quick as possible ! thanks to Howard Moore and his international team for having take care so well of Mathew, now he’s really motivated and knows what training means.
JH
Mark M was a great pro.
HA
A superb tennis resort and camp in a picturesque setting. Superb accommodations. Great tennis instruction and courts. Great for golf as well. Only downside is that the match up of level of play within each clinic was not always right on. Sometimes a player of much lesser ability held back the pace of instruction.
SS
Saddlebrook is simply the best out there. Their clinics are always the right balance of conditioning, instruction and fun. Kudos to Howard and his staff. Special mention to our instructors Matt and Peter from England.!They deserve a peerage for their efforts!
JW
This was our first time to Saddlebrook and had heard great things about it, and had researched resorts with great tennis programs, but also rooms and food. Saddlebrook did not disappoint! The resort is beautiful, and the lodging (jr. suite) was very good with very comfortable beds (important after a long day of tennis). We are both avid tennis players and we have been to several other camps/resorts so we had something to compare with. The tennis instruction and program are top notch. We had Tai Lam as our instructor for our 3 days. Tai has great knowledge of tennis strokes and had a knack for telling you what you what was breaking down in your stroke. Tai, like all the pros, are excellent players who actively take part with the students and don’t just stand on the sidelines watching. The morning and afternoon are a total of 5 hours on the court, and even if you’re in great shape, you’ll probably be stiff and sore after the first day. The food at Saddlebrook was very good, although we really only ate lunch there as we ate offsite most nights. The spa, was average. I had a deep tissue massage on the last day, and compared to what I’ve had in the past, probably not worth the $. Also, the men’s changing area and waiting area is the same room, so it’s kind of hard to relax prior to the session when there is a locker room full of people changing. Other than that, we would definitely return to Saddlebrook and look forward to it.
JS
Can accommodate every level of player, the director is very hands on, making sure you are in the right group for your skill level. I was initially a bit intimidated with the prospect of 5 hrs per day at my age (57) but it was great. I have only been playing about 4 years so I have a lot of room for improvement and definitely saw results, as did my wife who has only been playing for a few months, as did my son who plays at a high level.
WP
Saddlebrook offers a very strong tennis program with creative instructors at a beautiful location! I’d recommend this tennis resort to all players at various levels.
BM
Totally enjoyed myself there and had a great tennis expierience. The btennis pros were knowledgeable as well as personable. The drills really were designed to challenge you yet accomodate your skill level. The camp goers were all pretty skilled as well so it made for good competion and a great time. Really great coaching. Overall excelent camp enviroment !My game was onfire when I came back to my club team. The resort itself was fine. I liked my room location and the set up pretty well. The resort staff was all pretty accomodating with the exception of the wait barstaff at the pool afterwards. They were a little negligent in seeing if I needed any beverages as I was by myself but managed to service the bigger groups around me. Besides that I would go back and will go back in a heartbeat.
TR
Great pros. Great accommodations.
LL
Another good visit for the Baltimore boys. We got downgraded to Cluster 4 (from 3), Dempsey’s lost our reservation (but we got in OK), loved Pistol Pete, Matt, a bunch of the other pros, had a few issues with Oleg, but nothing big. Fewer injuries than last year!
JV
After 34 years, I visited Saddlebrook again and found the facilities and instruction to have not diminished a bit since the days Harry Hopman roamed the courts and dispensed tennnis wisdom. Over a two day visit I worked quite a bit with Mark M., who was superb, and enjoyed having access to a beautiful pool and dining environment, as well, to recuperate. The resort is not close to the ocean so if you are looking for that feature you will not find it here.
DK
Third time @ Saddlebrook.Been to many other resorts playing tennis. This is the best. Great facilities and instructions. This visit Mark M. was great. Look forward to going back again.
AM
We brought our team of 18 boys down to Saddlebrook for a week. The tennis was top notch and made every effort to help us get ready for our spring season. The only downside was the rooms that the boys stayed. They could have been cleaner and properly equipped with blankets. Overall, it was an excellent experience and we hope to be back next year.
SF
This is my third vacation to Saddlebrook, and I love it! Unlike a traditional boot camp, this camp focuses on proper technique as well as quantity of balls hit. The instructors have years of experience, patience, and make the long, hot days in the sun pass quickly and with a smile. The only downside to my recent visit is the fact that they no longer have the tennis channel available in the rooms. A real disappointment for a tennis resort!
PB
It was a beautiful spot and our tennis coach, Scott Brown, was very sensitive to the needs of us (4 women with different strengths). It was very worthwhile and a fun experience.
MJ
recently attended a weedend tennis camp at saddlebrook with 3 friends. Highly recommend our pro, Scott Brown. He pushed us out of our comfort zone and had us returning shots we otherwise would have missed. Lots of fun, too.
HR
Great tennis academy.Pros are very good and have great drills. Also very good with teaching technique and giving tips on strokes. Best 4 days of tennis our group has had. Different surfaces also made it interesting. Resort also very good. Food at the pool was very good. Steakhouse excellent. Highly recommended. Accomodations good.
GC
Saddlebrook provides the perfect combination of a hardcore tennis analysis, drill and instruction camp (2 daily intense sessions) and prestige resort. There is no other comparison in this category in my opinion.
PD
Instructors and program are excellent but the level of the players in a group was not consistent. It really affected the quality of the lessons which are expensive.
AW
strengths: many hours of instructi
KD
Very enjoyable experience with friends/USTA teammates. Very happy with agenda and surroundings. Staff was very friendly and welcoming. Will definitely go back with other teammates..great bonding experience!!
TD
Spent last week [March,2012] playing at Saddlebrook. Like the Hard-Tru surfaces, don’t like the early 8am starting time esp if you are not coming from the east coast. Three hours in the morning in predominantly drilling – forehand, backhand, approach, serve, volley, etc. Instructors will offer indiviual advice on strokes to each person as they play. 3-4 people per court. There is little time spent standing around. Even the pick goes fast. Plan to be in shape to play 3 hours although I wouldn’t describe the workout as grueling. Afternoons vary by the instructor. Two hours usually spent doing a mixture of drills and some competition although winnning is not emphasized. Surprisingly, people disappear at 3pm – I thought they would be interested in some matches but everyone seems to run off. Tampa is easy in by plane. Wesley Chapel is north and I would recommend a rental car to get groceries and eat at cheaper places than Saddlebrook.
JB
We loved our experience here and came back a few years after our first visit. Our original plan was to go to a different camp and resort for diversity but were Saddlebrook had such a great program and a beautiful location and resort that we chose to come back. The instruction was excellent, lunch at the poolside cafe was nice along with the pool and spa. Really Great!
TR
My wife and I had a wonderful 1 week stay at Saddlbrook Golf & Tennis Resort. My wife (3.5 level) and I (4.5 level) both had exceptional tennis instruction, as well as got to meet many different tennis enthusiasts that were also part of the program. On Friday, the tennis pro’s offered free drinks around the pool to encourage socializing amongst guest. The accommodations were very nice, the pool was great, and the overall atmosphere was fantastic. Live DJ music by the pool made the after tennis mood that much more enjoyable. The food was superb, and the value for it and the pool side drinks were exceptional. Two non-alcoholic beverages by the pool including tip was less than 5 bucks. Did I mention free refills? Wow! How can you not go wrong! 🙂 Overall, we had a Fantastic stay at Saddlebrook, and we will certainly come back again. (Our Stay was from March 10th-17th, 2012)
DC
Good instruction, nice atmosphere, nice pool and hot tub. Not enough dining options on grounds
JS
Tennis program was well organized and all involved were very friendly. Pro was very enthusiastic and encouraging. Was very skilled at spotting problems with strokes but sometimes tried to focus on too many things at once which made it confusing.
MB
Great tennis program. Make sure to do the stretches both morning and afternoon. The food at the resort is expensive, might make sense to get a rental car and drive off property to eat.
LH
I had an amazing time at the Saddlebrook tennis program. My three days helped improve several areas of my game and the video reinforced the coaching. Mark M. was excellent taking time to give specific feedback on various parts of my game. I strongly recommend the Hopman program.
ML
We want to extend a huge thank you to the team of professionals at the Tennis camp for all of the time and patience working with the DC girls this week. While we thought we were ok 3.5 players, we clearly all had a lot to learn to improve our games, respectively. We worked with Steve. His professionalism, humor and dedication to helping us become better players went above and beyond our expectations. We also appreciated how he was able to change our group sessions into individual lessons, without making the others feel like we were missing out. We each felt that he gave us individual attention to our specific needs. It was like he had four children and we were all his favorite. We can’t thank you enough for making this trip fun and educational. We are looking forward to putting all of our new skills and lessons to use. Thank you again for everything. We hope to make it back to Saddlebrook again.
SW
I just went alone for a week at Saddlebrook during which I completed 5 full days of the Hopman Tennis Academy. I cannot write enough good things about Howard Moore, his team and their comprehensive program. Before attending, I received a questionnaire to fill out in which I communicated my tennis level, my strengths and weaknesses and what I wished to accomplish in the program. During my 5 days I participated in groups ranging from 4:1 to 1:1 ratio, worked on every aspect of my game with John, Tai, Oleg, Shaul and Mark, had video analysis from Larry, the morning tip from Howard, and played some points and games with fellow players who were my level. This tennis program is not like some others where you find yourself drilling with players of various levels. Howard and Shawn do their best to put you with players your level and if this is not the case, they move or re-assign players and instructors as required. I returned home a much improved player with at least one essential “tip” from each instructor that will help me immensely with my strokes or game strategy. If I could go back today (I’ve only been home for 3 days), I would. With respect to the resort, it is a fabulous golf and tennis resort on hundreds of acres of beautiful, preserved nature. I had some meals on site and they were very good. I used the fitness centre on my non-tennis program days and also found some time to watch Jame Blake and Samantha Stosur drilling in preparation for the Indian Wells tournament. I will return as soon as I can.
AT
Saddlebrook for sure has bragging rights for their tennis staff, but it is Howard Moore, Tennis Program Director who makes it special. Our family of four different level players had great experience improving our game. But most importantly we felt personal attention to our tennis needs which helped to stay focused and motivated.
RI
I recently spent two full days in the adult tennis program at Saddlebrook and had an amazing experience! Many thanks to Howard Moore and his excellent teaching staff, Shawn and Emmanuel who paid careful attention to our technique and strategy throughout the weekend. They kept us motivated on the court, exceeded our expectations and met our specific needs, which made our weekend ideal. Video taped analysis was key on our first day, as we were then able to work on our strokes for the remainder of our time there. The Spa is outstanding… one of the best massages that I’ve ever had (ask for Debbie). I can’t wait to return for another girls-weekend of tennis/spa!
CL
This was my 3rd trip to Saddlebrook, it was a “girls weekend getaway” and we went specifically for the adult tennis program. Because we were all former college players, we had specific requests on how we wanted our drills/match play, etc. Howard Moore (who runs the tennis program) and his staff accommodated every request. Teaching pro Sean has an incredible technical eye and teaching pro Emanuel runs great drills and kept the intensity high. Teaching pro Steve is also very technical, and very good at doubles strategy. We are already planning another trip in November. We met a lot of people, of all abilities, and everyone was enjoying the camp. Also, we all had amazing massages at the spa.
WS
We just got back from a long weekend at Saddlebrook and had an amazing experience both with the tennis and the resort. The facilities and the resort are beautiful and in excellent condition. The ratio of pros to participants was 1 to 4 and during videotaping 2 to 4. We were fortunate enough to work with Emanual and Shawn who were very instructive and helpful. Shawn was excellent on technical aspects of our strokes and Emanual was great at keeping us moving and working on our weaknesses. They had great and thoughtful drills yet were very acommodating to let us pitch in on what we wanted to do – you can tell that their goal was to make sure we got the experience out if it that we had in mind. Their flexibility as key to our enjoyment. Kudis to Howard for running a great team and hiring a great staff! The spa was AWESOME and the massages were some of the best I had ever had and I have had a lot! It was so great to go in there and jump in the hot top after 5 hours of tennis and then get a fabulous massage. We stayed in a two bedroom suite and the beds were very comfortable and very comfortable pillows which is what a lot of places skimp on – not here. The food was also delicious and they gave you plenty of it- over all the entire staff was out to make sure you had a great time and wanted to meet your requests. The chocolate alligators at turn down is also a great touch. We cannot wait to go back and are already planning our next trip!
OP
Outstanding tennis instruction. Guaranteed game matching. At 5.0 I played with both Juniors, instructors and other 5.0’s depending on the level of players registered that day/week. They really look after you and accommodate your needs. The pros really work hard. Intense training. I highly recommend it.
GH
I was at Saddlebrook Tennis the week of Feb. 21 2012 and had a fabulous week with my wife and 16 year old daughter. They had the right level of play for all three of us and we made great strides in conditioning and improving our strokes and game strategy. Great instructors and Howard is a great organizer and motivator. The accommodations and food were so great that we hardly left the resort all week. I am coming back soon
FS
As a 50 year old “weekend warrior” I can not recommend Saddlebrook enough. I am not (at all) a great player, but did compete internationally many years ago in cross country skiing. I say this because I can recognize good coaching, and the team Howard Moore has assembled is absolutely first rate. Highly experience players on the courts near me were being push to excel, while more intermediate/high beginner players were drilled on fundamentals. Even in group classes there is a effort to retain teacher continuity, and the progress in my own group was highly visible. We have taken lessons in many places, but this is, for me, the best family tennis facility we have encountered. Our “improvements” would be more about the menu at the restaurants. It seemed unchanging, and not spectacularly healthy. There are numerous restaurants just off the property, but if you stayed on site for more then a week I think you would want to be sure to go offsite to eat at some point.
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732 Reviews on “Saddlebrook Resort”
Hopman tennis camp (3 and 5 hour programs) is a great way to improve your game, if placed in the appropriate group and with a instructor interested in instructing. Level of play for the camp depends on the number of entrants and can make or break your time at the camp.
Had a private lesson with Peter Billingham who is an exceptional teaching pro. He catered the lesson to my needs and brought a level of enthusiasm that is often lacking with some pros. Figures out what your strengths are and works within them, while developing your weaknesses. Overall, would love to take more lessons with him.
This was my first tennis camp. The camp was very organized. The coaches were great teachers to work with. They were flexible in their instruction to include areas that I had special interest in. The food was great. I enjoyed eating in front of a Banyan tree with 50 Wood Storks nesting in it with their chicks. The weather was perfect. Great experience.
I recently spent a week at Saddlebrook (my third visit in 3 years, I continue to enjoy the exceptional teaching staff (Tai is exceptional – just the right mix of hard work, teaching, and humor). I highly recommend Saddlebrook
I gained so much at the camp … from each pro I met! Howard and Mark were certainly accomodating, knowledgable, and able to pass that knowledge to me so that I could retain it and take it home for daily use! As a teaching pro, I thought Ni was fantastic! He was energetic and encouraging with valuable drills and customized tips for everyone in our group. He didn’t just feed us balls … he hit with us. His insights while we hit live balls was exceptionial! I can’t wait to return!
I am just wrapping up my twentieth year visiting Saddlebrook Tennis. There is no other tennis camp I would ever consider going to. Howard and his crew are the most accommodating, congenial professionals who run a tennis program with highly skilled pros where I learn something new every time I come. I highly recommend Saddlebrook Tennis!
My husband, daughter (age 17) and I all had a great time at Saddlebrook. The coaches are fantastic – great teachers and fun. We all learnt a huge amount as well as enjoying ourselves enormously.
I recently spent a week at Saddlebrook in the intensive 5hrs a day programme. Thoroughly enjoyed the experience and was lucky enough to work with some great coaches. Mark M was superb and achieved a perfect balance of technical instruction and drills. John, Oleg, Scott and Peter were also excellent. All in all a very friendly and well-informed team. My boys very much enjoyed the coaching of Larry and Alvaro in the junior programme. Howard, the resident tennis director, runs a very professional operation and his enthusiasm permeates the programme.
I’ve been enjoying the benefits of Saddlebrook tennis camp for the last ten years….my game has only gotten better and better thanks to the Hopman program and the talent of the pros’who seem to be able to figure out what you need to work on in a minute!! I’ve also gotten the opportunity to work with one coach(Mark Magone)over the last many years. His keen eye and teaching technigues along with my commitment to improving has been a recipe for success! I highly recommned Saddlebrook Tennis(Hopman) as well as the beautiful resort setting.
This was my second time attending the Saddlebrook Hopman Program (my wife has been going for over a decade). The teaching pros are extremely knowledgable and quickly perceive the specific things to work on in order to improve your game. They work you hard but make learning fun. The Hopman Program is tried and true and all of the teaching pros are well schooled in the approach. The setting and courts are beautiful. I would highly recommend Saddlebrook.
This was my second visit to the Saddlebrook Hopman tennis program. I was so impressed the first time I came (April 2011) that I brought my entire family along with me for the second visit (April 2012). My wife (level 2.5), my 3 children (levels 3.5, 2.5, and 2.5), and I (level 4.0) all had wonderful and fruitful experiences with our respective pros and the Hopman team. Each of the 5 hour tennis sessions contained a healthy balance of drills and point play and I can honestly say that all of us came away with better tennis abilities than what we arrived there with. I am truly thankful to Howard Moore and all of the Saddlebrook staff who were most accomodating to our requests. We received personalized attention both on and off the courts.
I would like to highlight a couple of the people that my family and I had particularly good interactions with. The pro who worked with me was Peter Billingham. He is a new member of the Hopman staff, completing his college tennis career not long ago. He was simiply SPECTACULAR. I have taken many tennis lessions and been a part of several clinics but never have I had so much fun and learned so much from one individual. He drilled strokes just long enough for my group and me to get our muscle memory going but spent the bulk of the time during each session on strategy and point play. He, himself, participated in the points (rather than simply acting as a ball feeder) and made it challenging and fun. His love for tennis was obvious and absolutely infectious. In fact, I was so impressed by Peter that I requested that my eldest son be moved out of the junior grouping so that he could spend our last day with Pete as well. Peter is a testament to the quality of new, fresh pros that join the Saddlebrook staff each year.
My younger children said that Larry was their favorite. He was the most “clinical” in helping them improve their skills but also made it a point that the children enjoyed themselves. Their fondest memory was that Larry let them play “the circuit”: hard courts, red clay, and on grass!
The only constructive comment I would offer is to improve the on-site restaurant / menu choices. I must point out, however, that I chose saddlebrook for the outstanding tennis program and not the food / restaurant offerings.
Overall, I would highly recommend Saddlebrook tennis resort to any individual or family who wants to improve their tennis game(s). Though it is pricey, Saddlebrook was worth every penny that I spent.
My daughter and I had a great time at Saddlebrook. We were both well matched with players of similar skill level. We were given the opportunity to work on every level of our games and hit so many balls! Our instructors were energetic and motivating; we were happily worn out at the end of the week!
Great place to improve your game and learn subtleties in technique.So much opportunity to practice as well as playing out points. The teaching staff’s diversity really helps in delivering an excellent variety of perspectives on the game. Have been going there for almost 30years. No other tennis facility that I’ve attended so far has matched Hopman’s intense level of training. The pro shop is very knowledgeable and the Hopman office is not only personable but very helpful.
Excellent instruction, thorough and well dictated. Playing on clay for daily clinics was a real knee saver for me as a senior player and a welcome change from hard court, high altitude conditions at home in Jackson Hole. Tennis shop had a very limited selection of ladies apparel which was a surprise for such a well known resort. I would definitely come back to Saddlebrook to keep working on my game.
we came from france for a 5days tennis camp in feb/march and we enjoyed a lot the intensity of this programm, my 10years son worked a lot on all the court with many different instructors, did a lot of very good drills and was very well counselled, supported and pushed to give his best on the court.he came back exhausted but asked me to come back as quick as possible ! thanks to Howard Moore and his international team for having take care so well of Mathew, now he’s really motivated and knows what training means.
Mark M was a great pro.
A superb tennis resort and camp in a picturesque setting. Superb accommodations. Great tennis instruction and courts. Great for golf as well. Only downside is that the match up of level of play within each clinic was not always right on. Sometimes a player of much lesser ability held back the pace of instruction.
Saddlebrook is simply the best out there. Their clinics are always the right balance of conditioning, instruction and fun. Kudos to Howard and his staff. Special mention to our instructors Matt and Peter from England.!They deserve a peerage for their efforts!
This was our first time to Saddlebrook and had heard great things about it, and had researched resorts with great tennis programs, but also rooms and food. Saddlebrook did not disappoint! The resort is beautiful, and the lodging (jr. suite) was very good with very comfortable beds (important after a long day of tennis).
We are both avid tennis players and we have been to several other camps/resorts so we had something to compare with. The tennis instruction and program are top notch. We had Tai Lam as our instructor for our 3 days. Tai has great knowledge of tennis strokes and had a knack for telling you what you what was breaking down in your stroke. Tai, like all the pros, are excellent players who actively take part with the students and don’t just stand on the sidelines watching.
The morning and afternoon are a total of 5 hours on the court, and even if you’re in great shape, you’ll probably be stiff and sore after the first day. The food at Saddlebrook was very good, although we really only ate lunch there as we ate offsite most nights.
The spa, was average. I had a deep tissue massage on the last day, and compared to what I’ve had in the past, probably not worth the $. Also, the men’s changing area and waiting area is the same room, so it’s kind of hard to relax prior to the session when there is a locker room full of people changing. Other than that, we would definitely return to Saddlebrook and look forward to it.
Can accommodate every level of player, the director is very hands on, making sure you are in the right group for your skill level. I was initially a bit intimidated with the prospect of 5 hrs per day at my age (57) but it was great. I have only been playing about 4 years so I have a lot of room for improvement and definitely saw results, as did my wife who has only been playing for a few months, as did my son who plays at a high level.
Saddlebrook offers a very strong tennis program with creative instructors at a beautiful location! I’d recommend this tennis resort to all players at various levels.
Totally enjoyed myself there and had a great tennis expierience. The btennis pros were knowledgeable as well as personable. The drills really were designed to challenge you yet accomodate your skill level. The camp goers were all pretty skilled as well so it made for good competion and a great time. Really great coaching. Overall excelent camp enviroment !My game was onfire when I came back to my club team. The resort itself was fine. I liked my room location and the set up pretty well. The resort staff was all pretty accomodating with the exception of the wait barstaff at the pool afterwards. They were a little negligent in seeing if I needed any beverages as I was by myself but managed to service the bigger groups around me. Besides that I would go back and will go back in a heartbeat.
Great pros. Great accommodations.
Another good visit for the Baltimore boys. We got downgraded to Cluster 4 (from 3), Dempsey’s lost our reservation (but we got in OK), loved Pistol Pete, Matt, a bunch of the other pros, had a few issues with Oleg, but nothing big. Fewer injuries than last year!
After 34 years, I visited Saddlebrook again and found the facilities and instruction to have not diminished a bit since the days Harry Hopman roamed the courts and dispensed tennnis wisdom. Over a two day visit I worked quite a bit with Mark M., who was superb, and enjoyed having access to a beautiful pool and dining environment, as well, to recuperate. The resort is not close to the ocean so if you are looking for that feature you will not find it here.
Third time @ Saddlebrook.Been to many other resorts playing tennis. This is the best. Great facilities and instructions. This visit Mark M. was great. Look forward to going back again.
We brought our team of 18 boys down to Saddlebrook for a week. The tennis was top notch and made every effort to help us get ready for our spring season. The only downside was the rooms that the boys stayed. They could have been cleaner and properly equipped with blankets. Overall, it was an excellent experience and we hope to be back next year.
This is my third vacation to Saddlebrook, and I love it! Unlike a traditional boot camp, this camp focuses on proper technique as well as quantity of balls hit. The instructors have years of experience, patience, and make the long, hot days in the sun pass quickly and with a smile. The only downside to my recent visit is the fact that they no longer have the tennis channel available in the rooms. A real disappointment for a tennis resort!
It was a beautiful spot and our tennis coach, Scott Brown, was very sensitive to the needs of us (4 women with different strengths). It was very worthwhile and a fun experience.
recently attended a weedend tennis camp at saddlebrook with 3 friends. Highly recommend our pro, Scott Brown. He pushed us out of our comfort zone and had us returning shots we otherwise would have missed. Lots of fun, too.
Great tennis academy.Pros are very good and have great drills. Also very good with teaching technique and giving tips on strokes. Best 4 days of tennis our group has had. Different surfaces also made it interesting. Resort also very good. Food at the pool was very good. Steakhouse excellent. Highly recommended. Accomodations good.
Saddlebrook provides the perfect combination of a hardcore tennis analysis, drill and instruction camp (2 daily intense sessions) and prestige resort. There is no other comparison in this category in my opinion.
Instructors and program are excellent but the level of the players in a group was not consistent. It really affected the quality of the lessons which are expensive.
strengths: many hours of instructi
Very enjoyable experience with friends/USTA teammates. Very happy with agenda and surroundings. Staff was very friendly and welcoming. Will definitely go back with other teammates..great bonding experience!!
Spent last week [March,2012] playing at Saddlebrook. Like the Hard-Tru surfaces, don’t like the early 8am starting time esp if you are not coming from the east coast. Three hours in the morning in predominantly drilling – forehand, backhand, approach, serve, volley, etc. Instructors will offer indiviual advice on strokes to each person as they play. 3-4 people per court. There is little time spent standing around. Even the pick goes fast. Plan to be in shape to play 3 hours although I wouldn’t describe the workout as grueling. Afternoons vary by the instructor. Two hours usually spent doing a mixture of drills and some competition although winnning is not emphasized.
Surprisingly, people disappear at 3pm – I thought they would be interested in some matches but everyone seems to run off.
Tampa is easy in by plane. Wesley Chapel is north and I would recommend a rental car to get groceries and eat at cheaper places than Saddlebrook.
We loved our experience here and came back a few years after our first visit. Our original plan was to go to a different camp and resort for diversity but were Saddlebrook had such a great program and a beautiful location and resort that we chose to come back. The instruction was excellent, lunch at the poolside cafe was nice along with the pool and spa. Really Great!
My wife and I had a wonderful 1 week stay at Saddlbrook Golf & Tennis Resort. My wife (3.5 level) and I (4.5 level) both had exceptional tennis instruction, as well as got to meet many different tennis enthusiasts that were also part of the program. On Friday, the tennis pro’s offered free drinks around the pool to encourage socializing amongst guest. The accommodations were very nice, the pool was great, and the overall atmosphere was fantastic. Live DJ music by the pool made the after tennis mood that much more enjoyable.
The food was superb, and the value for it and the pool side drinks were exceptional. Two non-alcoholic beverages by the pool including tip was less than 5 bucks. Did I mention free refills? Wow! How can you not go wrong! 🙂 Overall, we had a Fantastic stay at Saddlebrook, and we will certainly come back again. (Our Stay was from March 10th-17th, 2012)
Good instruction, nice atmosphere, nice pool and hot tub. Not enough dining options on grounds
Tennis program was well organized and all involved were very friendly. Pro was very enthusiastic and encouraging. Was very skilled at spotting problems with strokes but sometimes tried to focus on too many things at once which made it confusing.
Great tennis program. Make sure to do the stretches both morning and afternoon. The food at the resort is expensive, might make sense to get a rental car and drive off property to eat.
I had an amazing time at the Saddlebrook tennis program. My three days helped improve several areas of my game and the video reinforced the coaching. Mark M. was excellent taking time to give specific feedback on various parts of my game. I strongly recommend the Hopman program.
We want to extend a huge thank you to the team of professionals at the Tennis camp for all of the time and patience working with the DC girls this week. While we thought we were ok 3.5 players, we clearly all had a lot to learn to improve our games, respectively.
We worked with Steve. His professionalism, humor and dedication to helping us become better players went above and beyond our expectations. We also appreciated how he was able to change our group sessions into individual lessons, without making the others feel like we were missing out. We each felt that he gave us individual attention to our specific needs. It was like he had four children and we were all his favorite.
We can’t thank you enough for making this trip fun and educational. We are looking forward to putting all of our new skills and lessons to use. Thank you again for everything. We hope to make it back to Saddlebrook again.
I just went alone for a week at Saddlebrook during which I completed 5 full days of the Hopman Tennis Academy. I cannot write enough good things about Howard Moore, his team and their comprehensive program.
Before attending, I received a questionnaire to fill out in which I communicated my tennis level, my strengths and weaknesses and what I wished to accomplish in the program. During my 5 days I participated in groups ranging from 4:1 to 1:1 ratio, worked on every aspect of my game with John, Tai, Oleg, Shaul and Mark, had video analysis from Larry, the morning tip from Howard, and played some points and games with fellow players who were my level.
This tennis program is not like some others where you find yourself drilling with players of various levels. Howard and Shawn do their best to put you with players your level and if this is not the case, they move or re-assign players and instructors as required.
I returned home a much improved player with at least one essential “tip” from each instructor that will help me immensely with my strokes or game strategy. If I could go back today (I’ve only been home for 3 days), I would.
With respect to the resort, it is a fabulous golf and tennis resort on hundreds of acres of beautiful, preserved nature. I had some meals on site and they were very good. I used the fitness centre on my non-tennis program days and also found some time to watch Jame Blake and Samantha Stosur drilling in preparation for the Indian Wells tournament.
I will return as soon as I can.
Saddlebrook for sure has bragging rights for their tennis staff, but it is Howard Moore, Tennis Program Director who makes it special. Our family of four different level players had great experience improving our game. But most importantly we felt personal attention to our tennis needs which helped to stay focused and motivated.
I recently spent two full days in the adult tennis program at Saddlebrook and had an amazing experience! Many thanks to Howard Moore and his excellent teaching staff, Shawn and Emmanuel who paid careful attention to our technique and strategy throughout the weekend. They kept us motivated on the court, exceeded our expectations and met our specific needs, which made our weekend ideal.
Video taped analysis was key on our first day, as we were then able to work on our strokes for the remainder of our time there. The Spa is outstanding… one of the best massages that I’ve ever had (ask for Debbie). I can’t wait to return for another girls-weekend of tennis/spa!
This was my 3rd trip to Saddlebrook, it was a “girls weekend getaway” and we went specifically for the adult tennis program. Because we were all former college players, we had specific requests on how we wanted our drills/match play, etc. Howard Moore (who runs the tennis program) and his staff accommodated every request. Teaching pro Sean has an incredible technical eye and teaching pro Emanuel runs great drills and kept the intensity high. Teaching pro Steve is also very technical, and very good at doubles strategy. We are already planning another trip in November. We met a lot of people, of all abilities, and everyone was enjoying the camp. Also, we all had amazing massages at the spa.
We just got back from a long weekend at Saddlebrook and had an amazing experience both with the tennis and the resort. The facilities and the resort are beautiful and in excellent condition. The ratio of pros to participants was 1 to 4 and during videotaping 2 to 4.
We were fortunate enough to work with Emanual and Shawn who were very instructive and helpful. Shawn was excellent on technical aspects of our strokes and Emanual was great at keeping us moving and working on our weaknesses. They had great and thoughtful drills yet were very acommodating to let us pitch in on what we wanted to do – you can tell that their goal was to make sure we got the experience out if it that we had in mind. Their flexibility as key to our enjoyment. Kudis to Howard for running a great team and hiring a great staff!
The spa was AWESOME and the massages were some of the best I had ever had and I have had a lot! It was so great to go in there and jump in the hot top after 5 hours of tennis and then get a fabulous massage. We stayed in a two bedroom suite and the beds were very comfortable and very comfortable pillows which is what a lot of places skimp on – not here. The food was also delicious and they gave you plenty of it- over all the entire staff was out to make sure you had a great time and wanted to meet your requests. The chocolate alligators at turn down is also a great touch. We cannot wait to go back and are already planning our next trip!
Outstanding tennis instruction. Guaranteed game matching. At 5.0 I played with both Juniors, instructors and other 5.0’s depending on the level of players registered that day/week. They really look after you and accommodate your needs. The pros really work hard. Intense training. I highly recommend it.
I was at Saddlebrook Tennis the week of Feb. 21 2012 and had a fabulous week with my wife and 16 year old daughter. They had the right level of play for all three of us and we made great strides in conditioning and improving our strokes and game strategy. Great instructors and Howard is a great organizer and motivator. The accommodations and food were so great that we hardly left the resort all week. I am coming back soon
As a 50 year old “weekend warrior” I can not recommend Saddlebrook enough. I am not (at all) a great player, but did compete internationally many years ago in cross country skiing. I say this because I can recognize good coaching, and the team Howard Moore has assembled is absolutely first rate. Highly experience players on the courts near me were being push to excel, while more intermediate/high beginner players were drilled on fundamentals. Even in group classes there is a effort to retain teacher continuity, and the progress in my own group was highly visible. We have taken lessons in many places, but this is, for me, the best family tennis facility we have encountered.
Our “improvements” would be more about the menu at the restaurants. It seemed unchanging, and not spectacularly healthy. There are numerous restaurants just off the property, but if you stayed on site for more then a week I think you would want to be sure to go offsite to eat at some point.