What should I be doing to prepare for the season?

Novice: get on the court whenever you have a chance, practice hand eye coordination by bouncing a ball with racket down and up (ball control), practice basics on court with tennis pro if possible, exercise regularly- get moving! (e.g. push-ups, sit-ups, running, jogging, sprint intervals, jump rope, bike, weight exercises…etc.)

You should come first day with a consistent SERVE and know how to keep score.

Intermediate: play, play, play, at least 3-4 times a week. Take lessons/clinics, hit with friends often, practice serve when no one is available, get involved with grand-prix or novice tournaments (USTA), any kind of match play experience will greatly benefit your game. Exercise and do some weight training (e.g. push-ups, sit-ups, running, jogging, sprint intervals, jump rope, bike, weight exercises…etc.)

Advanced: get REGULARLY involved in tournament play with USTA and Missouri Valley. You should be doing clinics daily/weekly for a few hours a day focusing on drills along with plenty of match play. Within the clinic setting you will be getting conditioning, however, running and lifting on your own time will enhance your muscle strength and prevent fatigue in long matches. I suggest adding conditioning to your routine in order to be in the best shape possible when the season starts.