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You don't have to be Jewish to think of September as the start of the new year. It is also, in many ways, the start of the new tennis year.

Internationally, the Grand Slam season has ended. More locally, the summer outdoor season is giving way to the indoor season on Long Island and kids have started a new school year.

Maybe it's time for New Tennis Year's Resolutions.

Here are practical and philosophical suggestions for junior tournament players that address areas that many could use improvement.

►Take it one match at a time and stop studying the draw.

►The questioning of line calls is often used as a rationalization for making questionable line calls. Resist that temptation.

►Pick up more balls in practice.

►Learn a good, safe, effective movement preparation routine and do it before you step on the court, since winter court time is so valuable.

►Hydrate better in the winter.

►The quality of your practice experience is closely tied to the quality of your practice partners. Encourage those you practice with.

►Always practice with a clear and practical purpose.

►The difference between explanations and excuses are the internalizing of responsibility. Only explanations lead to growth ... no excuses.

►Know the rules before stepping on the court.

►Thank your parents for the opportunity to play once in a while.

Happy Tennis New Year!