Teaching to Learn

It's been said that to be a great teacher, you must first be an avid student. I use this wisdom as a guiding principle for my profession as a coach by relentlessly reading theory, studying technique, questioning methods and reevaluating what I think I know and may yet learn. Teaching is a great way to learn, and I have observed that in order to be a great tennis student, it's tremendously helpful to coach.

Consider for a moment that Roger Federer, perhaps the greatest player of all time, spent many successful years without a coach, yet throughout his career, his strokes are immaculate and his tactics as creative and clever as ever.

In interviews, Federer proves himself to be the most astute tennis mind that I have heard, and I have heard many (most very dull unfortunately). Federer would be an outstanding commentator or coach after his playing days have ended because he sees the game from the perceptive of an analytic problem-solver. This ability is a large part of his playing greatness and a testament to the idea that, on-court, he is his own brilliant coach.

When I watch my students give instruction, I notice that they often use much of the same information and methods I have used with them. This is because teaching clarifies and reinforces existing information. It also deepens understanding and leads to a heightened sense of awareness.

Teaching and mentoring is also a valuable away to gain a larger view of the world. I am proud to conduct the largest tennis program in New York for Special Olympics over the past 17 years. Many of the players at my club, as well as from other clubs, have been longtime volunteers, providing instruction and mentorship to physically- and developmentally-challenged athletes in this program. This experience has been transformative for many young players. It's a little bit harder to get nervous at 5-5 in the third set of your match when you are reminded often that this playing challenge is insignificant when compared to the daily challenges faced by others whom you have helped.

There are few experiences as empowering and confidence-building as teaching. It is such a profound motivational tool that many top coaches will admit, Nick Bollettieri for example, who have learned as much from their students as their students have learned from them.

Teaching also has intrinsic value. It is a selfless act of kindness, a way to give back, pay forward and help others. It’s also an act of enlightened self-interest for young players. Tennis is, by its nature, a selfish sport. Gathering a few teaching experiences are a way to help yourself by helping others.

Be a leader on the court during practice and matches by practicing leadership and mentorship both on and off the court.