Diadem Stage 1 (Green Dot)

The Diadem Stage 1 Green Dot ball is a critical component of the 2026 'Path to Pro' junior development system. Designed for players aged 10 and older—or adult beginners—this ball is engineered to be exactly 25% slower than a standard yellow ball. This reduction in speed is achieved through a lower-compression internal core, which allows the ball to 'pancake' more on the racquet face, increasing dwell time and providing the player with better feel and control. In 2026, Diadem has upgraded the felt on their Stage 1 balls to a high-visibility yellow with a distinct, oversized green dot that remains visible even under high-intensity floodlights. This helps developing players track the ball's rotation, making it an excellent tool for teaching the fundamentals of topspin. The ball is designed for use on a full 78-foot court, serving as the final bridge before a player moves to pressurized yellow balls. Coaches praise the Diadem Stage 1 for its bounce consistency; unlike some cheaper transition balls that can be 'erratic,' the Diadem version provides a stable, predictable arc that rewards proper swing mechanics. It is also highly durable, designed to withstand the high-volume hitting typical of junior academies and group lessons. For the adult beginner, using these balls significantly reduces the 'shanking' that often occurs when trying to time a faster ball, allowing for longer rallies and a more cardiovascularly rewarding workout from day one.