How and How much are you practicing? Are you practicing enough?

I see so many kids take their lessons every week, go to their clinics, maybe go on a run once a week, and give themselves a pat on the back and tell themselves they worked hard. The amount of time and dedication that goes into this sport at a high level is more than the average person or parent would understand if they did not play at that level as well. 

Many take their lessons every week, sometimes 3 to 4  and they don’t go out and practice on their own.   That FreePlay is vital because it allows a player to learn to manage match situation‘s on their own. It’s great to have a coach to work with but the player need to be able to think independently.

It is great for kids to be a part of a program with a great culture and enviroment. When you surround yourself with other that are motivated and love competition, it can be a great place for development. With that I think it’s great to have some understood goals between the player and coach so that they are on the same page in that respect. Clinics give players another opportunity to try and implement what they are learning in lessons and should be getting as many reps in as possible. This does take some responsibility on the players and to stay focused on the tasks at hand that day, otherwise that time may be wasted. I believe clinics are great too because it does give what is already an individual sport, a more social aspect. 

I definitely think players need to play with comparable levels, but you can make a good practice against any player. If you’re playing someone stronger it’s an opportunity to try and step up because simple mistakes will get you killed. Weaker players give you an opportunity to practice playing aggressive and work on other parts of your game without the same pressure as playing someone of a more competitive level. 

In my opinion if you were looking I take your tennis seriously you should be playing at least 2 to 3 hours a day, 4-6 days a week while also adding in some conditioning  at least 2 to 3 days a week. 

Consistency is key. 

-Coach Drake