How to Start a Junior Tennis Apparel Shop From Scratch

Starting a junior tennis apparel shop from scratch takes about an hour. The free Pro Shops plan covers three live products, your branded URL, your academy logo applied across the catalog, and the affiliate program. Enough to launch a small program or test the model. Most active academies upgrade to the $59/month VIP plan inside the first month to unlock 200 product slots and the lowest base prices.

Step 1: Sign up free

Create a free Pro Shops account. No card required. Three live products and branded URL included.

For academies with 20+ active players or planning multiple product lines, upgrade to the $59/month VIP plan immediately. It pays for itself with 6-10 sales per month.

Step 2: Upload your logo

Vector (SVG, AI, PDF) prints sharpest. PNG at 2000+ pixels with transparent background works fine. Logo applies to every product you add to the store.

No logo yet? The $109/month Done-For-You VIP plan includes design help: our team creates the logo and product mockups for you.

Bear Grips Pro Shops: Custom Apparel for Your Team. No Minimums. Free Shipping.

Step 3: Pick starter products

Most successful junior tennis stores launch with 5-7 starter products:

1. Sport-Tek Wicking Tee ($23.86): practice and warmup
2. Sport-Tek Performance Polo ($34.88): tournament play
3. Rope Hat or Adjustable Cotton Hat ($25.88-$29.86): sun protection
4. Comfort Soft Hoodie ($36.88): cool weather travel
5. Womens Favorite Tee ($19.88): mom apparel
6. Cotton tee ($19.88): generic parent/fan
7. Womens Skort ($34.88): for girls under USTA dress code

Step 4: Set retail prices

Item	VIP base	Suggested retail	Margin
Practice tee	$23.86	$36	$12.14
Performance polo + name	$34.88	$50	$15.12
Sun hat	$25.88	$38	$12.12
Hoodie + name	$36.88	$58	$21.12

Step 5: Share the URL with families

Your store URL: shops.beargrips.com/youracademyname. Share in:

• Academy newsletter
• Parent email distribution
• Academy app or member portal
• Tournament weekend group chats
• Academy Instagram bio

Most academies see first orders within 24-48 hours.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much upfront cost?

Nothing. Free plan covers launch. Upgrade only when you need more products.

Who handles printing and shipping?

We do. US print partners handle production, ship direct to each family.

How does the academy get paid?

Bi-weekly direct deposit to connected account.

Can multiple coaches share access?

Yes. Shared login between director and assistant coaches.