In the seventh year into my career coaching at the State University of New York at Oneonta, I have critically observed the trends of younger people between the ages of 17-22, both as a coach and classroom lecturer. This age (17-22) is classified as “Generation Z,” a generation that is digitally proficient, wants instant…
While I don’t follow social media often, even a quick check reveals the vast forum of exaggerated ego and business-directed self-promotion. Some tennis coaches participate in this and other methods of hype and it’s so bad that I sometimes feel like I live in a “Look at Me” world of hyperbole that borders on…
I remember it like it was yesterday, coaching the Zonals for the 16 & Under age group. The competition was fierce with top kids from the country. Inevitably, various issues came up before matches. For example, I received a late-night text from my number two player saying her friend, our number three player, was…
One of a player’s greatest tools is confidence, yet very few know how to develop this state of mind. Most tennis matches are won or lost before the first serve is struck based upon who holds the most confidence. It’s true that practice, excellent ground strokes, a powerful serve, good coaching, proper rest, natural…
I have written several articles in the past about this topic and it is a recurring theme I often witness in the world of junior tennis. Therefore, I feel compelled to revisit the issue. I’ll lead in this article by letting you know that I have two players coming to my men’s collegiate tennis…
There is ample proof that tennis players often have difficulty controlling their emotions. This even holds true for players who have obtained greatness. Roger Federer was prone to anger and temper tantrums until he reached the age of 20 and well into his professional career. McEnroe was famous for screaming, “You cannot be serious,”…
Oftentimes, the most difficult opponent to face during a tennis match can be yourself. Tennis is one of the most challenging sports from a mental and emotional standpoint as you are often out there on court all by yourself. Long Island Tennis Magazine discussed a number of common scenarios with experts in the field…
During my years of coaching, I have noticed a lack of knowledge with American tennis players at all levels as to how well they understand the game and how well they understand their own game. These players have been working on their technique for years and have been handfed balls as their training. Some…
The yips are one of the most devastating and embarrassing afflictions that an athlete can experience. Stories of athletes plagued with the yips occur in a variety of sports, including tennis, golf, gymnastics, football and baseball. Chuck Knoblauch, the Gold Glove Award winning second basemen for the New York Yankees, suddenly lost his ability…
Over the last two years, I have received countless e-mails about my first book, Tennis Inside the Zone: 32 Mental Training Workouts for Champions. I have enjoyed the feedback on how it has helped junior players stay focused, adapt and compete like a champion under the most difficult situation. Many parents and players have…