What Tennis Can Learn From Tom Brady

As American tennis re-evaluates it's High Performance programs, specifically its methods of "talent identification" to reclaim a lofty position in the world, it's worth learning from the NFL and four-time Super Bowl champion Tom Brady.

Brady was the 199th player picked in the 2000 NFL draft. His combine numbers at the time, were the worst ever tested for a drafted quarterback. A look at combine testing numbers for the starting quarterbacks in the NFL today puts Russell Wilson at number one. Brady is still last. 

His picture taken at the rookie testing camp makes him look kind of well, normal. 

Heart, desire, intelligence, willingness to learn, field (or court) vision, leadership and grace under pressure are some of the ingredients of a champion and Brady is a shining example. These qualities are not easy to identify, but they are worth seeking out if we wish to find the next "Tom Brady" of U.S. tennis. 

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March/April 2024 Digital Edition