The Hindrance Quiz checks your understanding of the ITF and USTA rules of hindrances. Correct answers are the simple quick answers, not burdened with a barrage of what-ifs or embellished with nuances on the court. A “yes” means the action was a hindrance, and a point is awarded or re-played. A “no” answer means…
As we get better at the game of tennis, it is natural to start thinking about more complicated ideas on the court. Often, strategy and anticipating your opponent’s next shot take over your thought process. Both of these things can be very important to your success in a match. However, your ability to utilize…
In this time of extraordinary challenge, the dreams of many young players to one day play professional tennis have been put on pause. It’s concerning to venture outside to play tennis and in some areas perhaps ( and I say this with sadness) irresponsible. With no live tennis, even watching is an adventure. The 2019 encore presentation…
A great coach once told me, “It’s not what you teach; it’s what your student learns”. Ever since then, whenever I am coaching, I have tried my best to deliver my instructions clear and to the point. I know it’s my job to make sure my student gets it right. One of the things…
There are many different variables affecting your serve. However, the toss is the most important part of the serve. If the toss is consistent and dependable, your serve is likely to be the same. Timing and rhythm both play a big role in your ability to toss the ball well and to make contact…
Tennis is a game that requires players to have good ethics. Outside of the very highest levels of the sport, players are required to call their opponent’s shots in or out, as well as keep up with the score. Players are required to give the opponent the benefit of the doubt if they are…
Every tennis player has their own comfort zone concerning racquet head speed. There is a tendency to swing too slowly or too quickly during an actual point in a match. If you are trying to make sure your shot lands in, or are attempting to be “careful”, your racquet head speed is likely to…
Parents often ask me, “What makes Spanish tennis so great?”, or, “What do they do differently in Spain?” Many folks have never been there and are curious how such a small country became a world superpower in tennis. They also want to know how my academy and summer camp are influenced by the Spanish…
Modern tennis often seems to be an exchange of shots hit from behind the baseline, usually ending with one person hitting a winner or an error. However, the best players tend to use their position on the court to help force an error from their opponent or to hit a winner. It is much…
Emotions are a part of tennis. Players tend to feel miserable when they lose and great when they win. This is true during the match as well. A winning point can give you an exhilarating feeling and a losing point can tear your insides apart. For almost all players, it is better not to…