How to Get Camera-Shy Tennis Players and Clients to Leave Video Testimonials

Asking someone to leave a video testimonial can sometimes feel like asking them to serve on match point at Wimbledon. It is nerve-wracking, and not everyone is ready for the spotlight. But if you are a tennis coach, academy manager, or tennis product manufacturer, you already know that word of mouth is everything. And there is nothing quite as powerful as a happy customer speaking directly to your future clients—on camera.

The challenge? Not everyone is a natural in front of the camera. In fact, many players and clients freeze up at the thought of it. But do not worry—just like refining a serve, with the right coaching and strategy, you can turn even your most camera-shy customers into confident testimonial MVPs.

Here is how!

🎾 Step 1: Understand the Fear Factor

Camera shyness is real. People are afraid they will sound awkward, look weird, or forget what to say. Others just do not want the pressure of being on.

Your job? Make it feel like a casual post-match chat — not a press conference. The less formal the vibe, the more likely they will say yes.

🎾 Step 2: Create a Comfortable Environment

Forget fancy backdrops and ring lights. Most tennis players are more comfortable courtside than in a studio.

Try this:

• Let them film it at the club, on the court, or even at home

• Keep the setting familiar — think post-lesson or after a training session

• Bonus: Let them wear their gear. Nothing says authentic like a sweaty shirt and a genuine smile after a great lesson

🎾 Step 3: Start with a Chat

Before you even mention recording, have a normal conversation.

Ask:

• What has been the biggest improvement in your game since we started working together?

• What do you love about this academy?

• How did this product help your game?

That way, when the camera rolls, it is just an extension of the convo — not a performance.

🎾 Step 4: Offer Prompts (Not a Script)

Avoid putting a formal script in their hands. It makes people stiff.

Instead, guide them with easy prompts like:

• My name is [Name], I have been training at [Academy] for [X months or years]

• Before using [Your Product], I struggled with [Pain Point]

• Now, I am seeing [Result], and I would recommend it to other players or coaches

Keep it loose. Let them speak in their own voice — that is what builds trust.

🎾 Step 5: Reassure and Edit

Most people do not like how they sound or look on camera. Let them know:

• They do not need to be perfect

• You can edit out pauses and bloopers

• A 30- to 60-second clip is all you need

Tell them it is like match highlights — you only show the winners.

🎾 Step 6: Show Examples

Want to calm their nerves? Show them other testimonials.

Seeing fellow players, parents, or coaches talk on video builds comfort and sets the tone. It helps them think, Hey, I could do that.

🎾 Step 7: Offer Incentives (If Needed)

Sometimes, people need a little nudge. Offering a small incentive can go a long way — especially for younger players or busy parents.

Ideas:

• Free restring or grip replacement

• Discount on next lesson or camp

• Branded swag like a towel or water bottle

Why This Matters

Your future clients want proof — real proof. Not polished ads, but real people with real stories.

Whether it is a parent thrilled with their kid’s progress, a player who finally nailed their backhand, or a coach who swears by your product, their story is your best marketing asset.

And the best part? Video testimonials can be used for social media, landing pages, newsletters, and even on screens inside your club.

At Resourcely Marketing, we help tennis businesses build trust, credibility, and visibility. Getting video testimonials is one of the easiest — and most powerful — ways to show potential clients you are the real deal.

Want help setting up a testimonial strategy that works? Need templates, sample prompts, or tools that make recording easy?

👉 Contact us here to get started.