Coaching

There is no one "best" way to play tennis. Some players win by keeping the ball in play and running down as many shots as possible. Others have big weapons like their serve or forehand, and can use those shots to get their opponent in trouble or win the point. There are players who are capable of...Read more

I have always thought my math skills were pretty good. My grades in every math related class I ever took were A's; except for geometry (C). Ironically, one of the best things I do on the tennis court is to use angles to win the point…weird. Tennis is really all about math. If you can make a high...Read more

As the old saying goes, “You should always learn from your mistakes.” I add to that you should also learn from other people's mistakes. Throughout my coaching career, I have tried to learn from my mistakes and just like everyone else, I certainly made lots of them over the years. The trick is to...Read more

“Necesito el ritmo,”—“I need (the) rhythm”—is a common phrase heard on the tennis court in Spain, both from players and coaches. Rhythm, cadence, timing, and control are essential aspects of the Spanish style of training. What is rhythm and why is it important in Spain? How do you achieve good...Read more

Tennis professionals and coaches all have their own way of communicating. However, there are many words of wisdom coming from your instructors that have been repeated so many times, they get taken for granted and are often overlooked in a match situation. These can be your most helpful ideas out on...Read more

The recent rise of popularity in tennis is a positive sign for the future of the sport. As interest in the game increases, our main role as facilitators (parent or coach) is to create a welcoming environment that promotes life-long participation and enjoyment at both competitive and recreational...Read more

What happens when you show up to take a tennis lesson? Typically the pro will ask you what you want to work on. Being eager to improve your game you tell the coach that your backhand was off in your last league match. “Can you help me figure out what I am doing wrong with my backhand?”, you plead...Read more

At the beginning of this year, USPTA Eastern ushered in a new era in the organization’s history as Michael Smookler was named its new President. While Smookler is new to the role of President, he takes over the position with a wealth of experience on USPTA boards dating back to 2005. “Our goal is...Read more

Tennis has changed. The balls are traveling much faster than ever before. Even at the club level, it is difficult to sustain a longer rally due to the lack of time in between shots. This change means that players need to be able to hit their shots from many different positions on the court. Even...Read more

This article is Part Two in a 10-part series from Dr. Tom Ferraro. Click Here to read Part One . Over the years I have learned a key intervention that helps tennis players in their effort to win is anticipating any and all problems that will occur during an event and preparing a reaction to it...Read more