As we roll into the heat of the summer of 2017, I thought I would address what separates all of us on the court: How we deal with the heat of pressure. From the first time we compete in any way, shape or form, even as children, it's the first time we realize we could…
At this year’s annual USTA Long Island Region Awards Dinner, Sportime’s Jared El Gayeh was presented with the 10-and-Under Tennis Award which is given to the region’s top coach for U10 programming. “That was a really amazing award to receive,” said El Gayeh. “But it doesn’t just go to me, it goes to my entire…
There is no shortage of high-quality tennis coaches on Long Island, and the area has helped grow some of the best players in the country. But few of those coaches carry the type of background and experience brought to the table by Andrea Retolaza. “Andrea has the combination of a professional background and the technical…
Becoming a better tennis player requires lots of practice. There are no real short cuts to improving your game other than to spend quality time working on your skills. Other than taking lessons and playing matches, practicing with a family member is another great way to improve your game. Growing up, I gained a lot…
The way we talk to ourselves greatly influences the way we feel about ourselves. Negative self-talk on the tennis court can be a big drain on your energy level. It can also be improved quickly with some awareness. As a tennis coach, I can shine a light on some of these issues and have a…
It’s a truism that the best way to play well in competition, you need to relax, have fun and play freely. The moment a player starts to worry about outcomes or overthink the serve, is when tightness sets in and you begin to play weakly. To win on the court, one must have a free…
I have been increasingly perplexed and frustrated by the current day professional tennis players who refuse to work their way in to the net. As most people know, I have coached players and played my own game with the idea that it is an advantage to be the volleyer and a disadvantage to be the…
We have all seen “It,” either as a player, coach or fan. The “It” I am referring to is a player in the throes of a slump. Maybe “It” is a tournament winless streak like Novak Djokovic is currently experiencing due to what he calls “personal issues.” Or maybe “It” is missing the last six…
A great challenge for many coaches is organizing an effective practice plan that satisfies the needs of the strongest players without discouraging the weakest players. A great workout that promotes teamwork—which is inclusive of all levels accommodating of numerous participants, productive, beneficial and fun—is achieved by conducting carefully constructed drills. Productivity comes in the form…
Here is the big question: How can we expect players to do something as complicated as serving when they cannot throw and release a ball directly out of their hand? In this article, I am going to stress the importance of the grip and a throwing release as central principles to a great serve. We’re…