Tuesday, 31 August 2010
Monday, 30 August 2010
The Playability Scale
The Playability Scale
This was an ‘aha’ moment for me one day in the bath!! How can something so simple not be utilised in a game plan, certainly at low levels however higher level players would do well to do the same when it is all going wrong! Mentality at pro level is totally different but should still be kept simple.
This scale can work at all levels from beginner to touring pro and is a guideline as to what to do in various situations, commonly found in tennis matches. A player must quickly recognise where he is on the following scale, with suggested 'positive action plans' (PAP) for each scenario:
Many Pro Players today try to play and base their games around their own particular strengths. For them this is the most comfortable way to try and win, so in essence they are in their ‘comfort zone’.
The Art of Tactics is to take your opponent out of this comfort zone generally by one of Four ways:-
1. Play your game well and hopefully this will do the job
2. Change what you are doing by using changes of pace or more subtlety like varying spins
3. Playing utilizing tactical patterns or strategies using certain targets and placements on the court
4. Mentally by breaking your opponent down so that he begins to think too much
Review this only in circumstances of trouble, when playing well the art is not to think too much. With enough practice you will become automated in this area.
1-2 Nightmare scenario, being completely outplayed or playing badly
Two-ball survival kit e.g. serve and next ball or return and next ball. Keep looking and acting the part in order to have a chance of doing better. Clear your mind of negative thoughts using thought changing techniques. Keep your awareness in the now, 1 point at a time by focusing on one part of your body or the ball.
3-4 Playing average, but not well enough to win
Keep your emotions and body language in check, to stand a chance of moving up to the arenas of 5-8. Once again keep yourself in the now and in the job at hand by maintaining focus as above.
5-6 Even situation, no clear winning
Compete with controlled ability, be aware of opportunities, and maybe take a gamble to create one. These are the matches that are won via tiebreaks and the ability to notice ‘opportunity balls’ and ‘opportunity situations’. If a match is consistently going to Deuce, then understand who is doing what to whom and help plan future points. (I.E. are you winning points, losing points or is your oppoenents forcing mistakes?)
7-8 Ahead in the match.
Don't change a winning game - Finish the job, But be aware of tactical switch by opponent. Remember mindset should not be to protect the lead but to carry out the work that got you to this position. Remember, think in images not words.
9-10 Playing in the zone.
To think too much now will place you back at worst to 7-8, make the most of it by collecting as many points as possible whilst you can.
You will have to let me know how you get on. Good visualisations and the use of anchors throughout the body can take you to a mindset of 7-10 before you even perform. This forms part of your pre-match routine that will be discussed later in the book. However poor emotional control and you can find yourself in the 1-4 area, a loss in the 5-6 of your emotions will also send you spiralling down.
Sunday, 29 August 2010
12 Week Tennis Psychology E-Programme
Starting on 5th September 2010 i will be starting the first 12-week tennis psychology e-programme.
This will take the form of the following information.....
Week 1 - Knowing your game
Week 2 - Power goalsetting for performance
Week 3 - The Art of Confidence in your game
Week 4 - The ultimate pre training confidence exercise
Week 5 - The importance of crossing the line for a winning mindset
Week 6 - Personalised Serve Routines
Week 7 - Personalised Return of Serve Routines
Week 8 - End of point play and scenarios to keep you on track
Week 9 - Staying activated and towards the zone
Week 10 - Pre match planning and game plans
Week 11 - After match evaluation and never ending improvement
Week 12 - Free Question and Email Session
If you would like to take part in this programme that will ultimately improve your game then email enquiries@andytennis.co.uk. Cost is a mere £30.00!
Best of luck and here's to taking your game to another level!
This will take the form of the following information.....
Week 1 - Knowing your game
Week 2 - Power goalsetting for performance
Week 3 - The Art of Confidence in your game
Week 4 - The ultimate pre training confidence exercise
Week 5 - The importance of crossing the line for a winning mindset
Week 6 - Personalised Serve Routines
Week 7 - Personalised Return of Serve Routines
Week 8 - End of point play and scenarios to keep you on track
Week 9 - Staying activated and towards the zone
Week 10 - Pre match planning and game plans
Week 11 - After match evaluation and never ending improvement
Week 12 - Free Question and Email Session
If you would like to take part in this programme that will ultimately improve your game then email enquiries@andytennis.co.uk. Cost is a mere £30.00!
Best of luck and here's to taking your game to another level!
Tennis is a LARGE ball
Ever since the grass court coaching with the Army team i have been seeing the ball like a beach ball!
How? For me just a great deal of hitting on a fast surface!
I have taken this confidence into the club matches and have managed to make the finals of the mixed doubles and men's doubles. As it stands i am in the semi's of the men's singles and have this scheduled for Monday.
There are many exercises that can be used to help with seeing the ball easier! Take one small sized mini ball ( http://tiny.cc/n8koi ) and hit with this first in the service area then the whole court for upto 5 minutes. From here you will find the normal ball to seem bigger!
I will fill you in on the tournaments when i have done however i am looking to complete the triple this year!
How? For me just a great deal of hitting on a fast surface!
I have taken this confidence into the club matches and have managed to make the finals of the mixed doubles and men's doubles. As it stands i am in the semi's of the men's singles and have this scheduled for Monday.
There are many exercises that can be used to help with seeing the ball easier! Take one small sized mini ball ( http://tiny.cc/n8koi ) and hit with this first in the service area then the whole court for upto 5 minutes. From here you will find the normal ball to seem bigger!
I will fill you in on the tournaments when i have done however i am looking to complete the triple this year!
Friday, 27 August 2010
The greatest footwork news ever!
Check this out!
An ATP stat not that long ago stated that up to 70% of unforced errors were down to poor footwork.
That's a lot of points to just throw away!
It's also something that can be avoided.
My great pal Paul Gold has some free videos to help you with just that, including the one drill he tells me that "every single tennis player regardless of their level can do and should do on a regular basis".
I've asked him to share those with you, so before he changes his mind pop along to http://footwork4tennis.com and grab them.
I bought a copy of his footwork report a while ago and I can tell you he knows what he is talking about!
Here's the link again
http://footwork4tennis.com
Andy Dowsett
An ATP stat not that long ago stated that up to 70% of unforced errors were down to poor footwork.
That's a lot of points to just throw away!
It's also something that can be avoided.
My great pal Paul Gold has some free videos to help you with just that, including the one drill he tells me that "every single tennis player regardless of their level can do and should do on a regular basis".
I've asked him to share those with you, so before he changes his mind pop along to http://footwork4tennis.com and grab them.
I bought a copy of his footwork report a while ago and I can tell you he knows what he is talking about!
Here's the link again
http://footwork4tennis.com
Andy Dowsett
A total update
So whats news? Wow so many questions and well wishers!
Okay this is where i am at......
For those that keep asking with suprisement (new word from the andy book of words) i left the PTR due to a many family goings on and the ability to get my kids to and from school. Certainly not a decision i took lightly but nevertheless had no choice.
I got a job as head coach at a big club in Essex, although this was big in the 90's definitely needs building up again but therein lies the challenge.
I have great and fond memories of the thousands of coaches i have trained, tested and put through the PTR 5-day courses which will always remain. Don't worry alas i will continue with my job to educate like i did within the PTR whereby i wrote many of the courses and programmes. These will be in the form of e-books and will be posted on my main site andytennis.co.uk
The club i am at is building greatly however a major downfall was the foresight of not realising that because many owned holiday homes, boats and chalets abroad that their would be an exodus throughout the Summer month of August! Onwards we stride however and plot and plan accordingly. The schools programme will be big in September so much so that i have hired another coach and possibly a third that has come to the foreground. I have also managed to gain the job of tutoring school teachers on how to teach tennis. Therein lies the tutoring that i am back into! Along with the scholarship coaching programme sitting in the winds.
SCHOLARSHIP COACHING PROGRAMME....
This starts in March 2011 and consists of 6 months (ending on August 31st) of playing, coaching and gaining experience in every aspect of coaching. Very similar to the Stonebridge Academy before his retirement! Students will gain a qualification and LTA licence by the end of the course and i am sure will obtain a great amount of knowledge that will set you apart from other coaches, this will be via the LTA and the PTRuk although this still has to be confirmed but the price of the courses will be included in the fee. If you are interested then let me know! I will update my site with more information on this soon.
I digress.....
I have had some offers to work indoors a few days a week throughout the winter and am contemplating taking this offer up whilst the club i am at continues to take shape and build.
But as a coach looking to build don't forget to look at all ventures and ideas outside of the box! For instance today i coached 78 young kids from the local Catholic Church. They had a week long bible club that i have to say was well attended and looking at it the attraction was certainly fun and making friends over anything else. Something we need to look at in our coaching programmes when building! At the end of the 3 hours all had a taster session and went home with a flyer explaining the club programme and a ticket for a free session if they take it up. For the adults there was also a invite for an 8 week coaching course funded from Sport Essex.
The next few weeks will see a visit from the Brownies and Beavers, along with a group from Ford the major business 2 minutes down the road. As they say build it and they will come!
I have come across a great wee talent in the form of a young county sprinter. My god can she move, her poise and balance second to none and has an eye for the ball! In 3 sessions she can rally around 20 balls from the baseline and put at least 1 in 4 serves in. Not too dusty! On top of this i am helping her with her psychology work for both sports ready for the Olympics in 2016! So talented, hard working and enthusiastic ability to learn. What more can i ask for?
On top of this i am just finishing a club doubles e-book for you all with more in the pipeline. An advanced serving download is in progress and Tennis 90 coming along.
This just leaves the club doubles, mixed doubles and singles to play and win on bank holiday Monday. I will keep you posted..................
Okay this is where i am at......
For those that keep asking with suprisement (new word from the andy book of words) i left the PTR due to a many family goings on and the ability to get my kids to and from school. Certainly not a decision i took lightly but nevertheless had no choice.
I got a job as head coach at a big club in Essex, although this was big in the 90's definitely needs building up again but therein lies the challenge.
I have great and fond memories of the thousands of coaches i have trained, tested and put through the PTR 5-day courses which will always remain. Don't worry alas i will continue with my job to educate like i did within the PTR whereby i wrote many of the courses and programmes. These will be in the form of e-books and will be posted on my main site andytennis.co.uk
The club i am at is building greatly however a major downfall was the foresight of not realising that because many owned holiday homes, boats and chalets abroad that their would be an exodus throughout the Summer month of August! Onwards we stride however and plot and plan accordingly. The schools programme will be big in September so much so that i have hired another coach and possibly a third that has come to the foreground. I have also managed to gain the job of tutoring school teachers on how to teach tennis. Therein lies the tutoring that i am back into! Along with the scholarship coaching programme sitting in the winds.
SCHOLARSHIP COACHING PROGRAMME....
This starts in March 2011 and consists of 6 months (ending on August 31st) of playing, coaching and gaining experience in every aspect of coaching. Very similar to the Stonebridge Academy before his retirement! Students will gain a qualification and LTA licence by the end of the course and i am sure will obtain a great amount of knowledge that will set you apart from other coaches, this will be via the LTA and the PTRuk although this still has to be confirmed but the price of the courses will be included in the fee. If you are interested then let me know! I will update my site with more information on this soon.
I digress.....
I have had some offers to work indoors a few days a week throughout the winter and am contemplating taking this offer up whilst the club i am at continues to take shape and build.
But as a coach looking to build don't forget to look at all ventures and ideas outside of the box! For instance today i coached 78 young kids from the local Catholic Church. They had a week long bible club that i have to say was well attended and looking at it the attraction was certainly fun and making friends over anything else. Something we need to look at in our coaching programmes when building! At the end of the 3 hours all had a taster session and went home with a flyer explaining the club programme and a ticket for a free session if they take it up. For the adults there was also a invite for an 8 week coaching course funded from Sport Essex.
The next few weeks will see a visit from the Brownies and Beavers, along with a group from Ford the major business 2 minutes down the road. As they say build it and they will come!
I have come across a great wee talent in the form of a young county sprinter. My god can she move, her poise and balance second to none and has an eye for the ball! In 3 sessions she can rally around 20 balls from the baseline and put at least 1 in 4 serves in. Not too dusty! On top of this i am helping her with her psychology work for both sports ready for the Olympics in 2016! So talented, hard working and enthusiastic ability to learn. What more can i ask for?
On top of this i am just finishing a club doubles e-book for you all with more in the pipeline. An advanced serving download is in progress and Tennis 90 coming along.
This just leaves the club doubles, mixed doubles and singles to play and win on bank holiday Monday. I will keep you posted..................
Saturday, 14 August 2010
Army Tennis Training Sir!
I had the tremendous job of coaching the Army Ladies, Mens and Vets tennis team at the All England Grass Courts this year at Raynes Park. Mission to prepare the teams for the inter services championship to be held at Wimbledon the following week.
My expectations of the event were - 0. My knowledge of what to expect - 0.
The idea was to learn from the first day and plan and prepare from this day forward for the following week.
The mens team consisted of a rebel band of 16 players headed by the team captain Roger. All great guys and all hard workers. Now if you have a problem, if no one else can help and if you can find them, then maybe you can hire.....oh hold on wrong scenario!
The ladies team as nice as pie and in need of some renovated coaching work. Vets team great bunch but dammit if i could find time to multi-task 3 different groups at the same time and keep them happy whilst differentiating a the same time. I did however mange to find a way but not without much duress!
Day 1 on grass saw me playing ridiculously out of sorts with my timing and managed to get by with hitting with the lower level guys that i soon figured out within the 20 minute warm up. The aim was to get the team used to hitting on grass. In periodisation terms this was the preparation phase.
Day 2 as a coach saw me playing about 8 foot behind the baseline but hitting with anyone. The aim here was to get used to moving on the grass and playing specific tactical scenarios in doubles as well as singles.
Day 3 outstanding, hitting, seeing and feeling the ball better. Confidence of hitting on grass as a whole for all was better and here we have hit the pre-competitive phase of life.
Day 4 again pre-competitive and my version of pressure point tennis to get the players playing under duress.
Day 5 active rest until competition on Monday and Tuesday.
The experience as a coach was outstanding, how many coaches can say they have coached the Army team? I felt privileged and overwhelmed. But at the same time looking back now have a better understanding of how to train the team in the week leading up to the tournament.
At Wimbledon my job was to prepare all players for ensuing matches and hit with them at the penultimate time on the courts they were to play. Matches were dispersed at Aorangi Park and the sacred courts of 14 to 19 on the grounds itself. The other job pick the matches that mean most and sit down for on court coaching between changeovers. Prognosis at the higher levels? Keep it simple with what you do well and not to try anything you don't really own. On the lower levels attack the weaknesses with plays that work and stick to it until such times the opponent changes their game.
Overall results Navy 1st, Army 2nd, Air Force 3rd.
Personally i would like to thank all those that trained and put the effort in and made me feel welcome to the team. I look forward to training the B team for the indoor championships and the A team again next year for Wimbledon.
My expectations of the event were - 0. My knowledge of what to expect - 0.
The idea was to learn from the first day and plan and prepare from this day forward for the following week.
The mens team consisted of a rebel band of 16 players headed by the team captain Roger. All great guys and all hard workers. Now if you have a problem, if no one else can help and if you can find them, then maybe you can hire.....oh hold on wrong scenario!
The ladies team as nice as pie and in need of some renovated coaching work. Vets team great bunch but dammit if i could find time to multi-task 3 different groups at the same time and keep them happy whilst differentiating a the same time. I did however mange to find a way but not without much duress!
Day 1 on grass saw me playing ridiculously out of sorts with my timing and managed to get by with hitting with the lower level guys that i soon figured out within the 20 minute warm up. The aim was to get the team used to hitting on grass. In periodisation terms this was the preparation phase.
Day 2 as a coach saw me playing about 8 foot behind the baseline but hitting with anyone. The aim here was to get used to moving on the grass and playing specific tactical scenarios in doubles as well as singles.
Day 3 outstanding, hitting, seeing and feeling the ball better. Confidence of hitting on grass as a whole for all was better and here we have hit the pre-competitive phase of life.
Day 4 again pre-competitive and my version of pressure point tennis to get the players playing under duress.
Day 5 active rest until competition on Monday and Tuesday.
The experience as a coach was outstanding, how many coaches can say they have coached the Army team? I felt privileged and overwhelmed. But at the same time looking back now have a better understanding of how to train the team in the week leading up to the tournament.
At Wimbledon my job was to prepare all players for ensuing matches and hit with them at the penultimate time on the courts they were to play. Matches were dispersed at Aorangi Park and the sacred courts of 14 to 19 on the grounds itself. The other job pick the matches that mean most and sit down for on court coaching between changeovers. Prognosis at the higher levels? Keep it simple with what you do well and not to try anything you don't really own. On the lower levels attack the weaknesses with plays that work and stick to it until such times the opponent changes their game.
Overall results Navy 1st, Army 2nd, Air Force 3rd.
Personally i would like to thank all those that trained and put the effort in and made me feel welcome to the team. I look forward to training the B team for the indoor championships and the A team again next year for Wimbledon.
Sunday, 25 July 2010
A world of continuing learning!
Amazing how even at 40 years old i have never stopped learning! and this has to apply to you.
I am currently reading a great book about the Talent Code. This is just an amazing read and as coaches for sure you need to check this out!
I have spent the last month building even more and hiring two assistant coaches. This will prove fruition in September in our ever growing schools programme. I am looking now to do pre-school, lunchtime and after school tennis sessions as well as in school tennis. The target is to reach 27 primary schools and 3 secondary schools. We are 40% of the way there and will get this to 70% in September!
I have been busy with other ventures which means i am back in the tutoring market again and on the way to setting up an academy at the club in Brentwood. I am after some talented young juniors about the age of 7/8 and will utilise the Modern Tennis way of thinking. A great product and run by some great friends of mine.
I have also managed to corner the market for teaching primary school teachers to coach tennis. Funding is amazingly about if you go searching for it! Although admittedly it helps to know the right people and this can only be done via networking! DONT be one of these coaches that turn up for lessons and then walk away again. I believe once you are at the club you are there for the day! Meet and greet people commit to other projects and make the phone calls required!
I had a great skype chat with America which could see some work from that direction via the Tennis Industry Association and writing articles. Many things in the pipeline and the future is looking bright!
Lets hope for a great and easy winter!
Signing out
Andy
I am currently reading a great book about the Talent Code. This is just an amazing read and as coaches for sure you need to check this out!
I have spent the last month building even more and hiring two assistant coaches. This will prove fruition in September in our ever growing schools programme. I am looking now to do pre-school, lunchtime and after school tennis sessions as well as in school tennis. The target is to reach 27 primary schools and 3 secondary schools. We are 40% of the way there and will get this to 70% in September!
I have been busy with other ventures which means i am back in the tutoring market again and on the way to setting up an academy at the club in Brentwood. I am after some talented young juniors about the age of 7/8 and will utilise the Modern Tennis way of thinking. A great product and run by some great friends of mine.
I have also managed to corner the market for teaching primary school teachers to coach tennis. Funding is amazingly about if you go searching for it! Although admittedly it helps to know the right people and this can only be done via networking! DONT be one of these coaches that turn up for lessons and then walk away again. I believe once you are at the club you are there for the day! Meet and greet people commit to other projects and make the phone calls required!
I had a great skype chat with America which could see some work from that direction via the Tennis Industry Association and writing articles. Many things in the pipeline and the future is looking bright!
Lets hope for a great and easy winter!
Signing out
Andy
Monday, 28 June 2010
Catch up
Wow times flies when you are busy.
Since we last spoke i have been busy with the coaching and continually setting up new ideas and programmes. Adding schools and more importantly preparing schools to continue in September.
Remember this helps to build the club up from the ground up and from here you can start to bring the parents into the tennis equation. I have entered the Frinton Vets Grass Court Tournament and my training began a few months back. 4 Sets a week, 2 on court workouts and 2 five mile bike rides. Not forgetting a Sainsbury look alike trolley load of balls to serve each day.
With over 15 hours of hitting in lessons a week i am feeling confident which is vitally important. This key ingredient is of some importance when playing matches. You have to prepare yourself and know you are not week in any particular area when you enter the arena.
When i practice i try to just zone in on one key aspect of each shot, forehands maybe the footwork, backhands the space between body and racket, Serve the takeback......i think you get the picture.
A few weeks from now i shoot to West London to coach the Army Team ready for the Inter-sevices at Wimbledon. In the meantime, i am on the lookout for another tennis coach to work alongside me in September having built an adequate business already and also on the look out for young talent to work with in my potential performance programme.
Since we last spoke i have been busy with the coaching and continually setting up new ideas and programmes. Adding schools and more importantly preparing schools to continue in September.
Remember this helps to build the club up from the ground up and from here you can start to bring the parents into the tennis equation. I have entered the Frinton Vets Grass Court Tournament and my training began a few months back. 4 Sets a week, 2 on court workouts and 2 five mile bike rides. Not forgetting a Sainsbury look alike trolley load of balls to serve each day.
With over 15 hours of hitting in lessons a week i am feeling confident which is vitally important. This key ingredient is of some importance when playing matches. You have to prepare yourself and know you are not week in any particular area when you enter the arena.
When i practice i try to just zone in on one key aspect of each shot, forehands maybe the footwork, backhands the space between body and racket, Serve the takeback......i think you get the picture.
A few weeks from now i shoot to West London to coach the Army Team ready for the Inter-sevices at Wimbledon. In the meantime, i am on the lookout for another tennis coach to work alongside me in September having built an adequate business already and also on the look out for young talent to work with in my potential performance programme.
Friday, 11 June 2010
Its been a while but........
Okay so since 'moving on' and becoming a trench coach i think this will pretty much be the last blog on how to build a club. I have been answering many of you via email regarding coaching and playing and now i think it is best i get back to blogging some of the questions and answers that i have for you all.
However, as it stands within 3 weeks (cant really count the weeks holiday to Lanzarote!). My work is now 25 hours and growing. The club is about to launch into an extensive schools programme with 4 schools currently attached to the club and a further 8 schools to start in September. I have managed to gain funding for adult coaching and schools coaching so nothing gets accomplished for free although i was going down the route of sowing in the schools with work and reaping the benfits at the club!
The club programme is now set in stone and summer camps ready to go. Leaflets are flying out the door as we speak and this is why school work is important to help fill these up for you.
So within one month, two weeks planning, plotting, printing, negotiating and meeting, one week holiday and one week full time work we have a viable business in the club that now requires another coach to help with the ongoing coaching that is to build from here on in.
If you want me to help set up something similar for your club just ask and i can do a makeover for your business as well.
However, as it stands within 3 weeks (cant really count the weeks holiday to Lanzarote!). My work is now 25 hours and growing. The club is about to launch into an extensive schools programme with 4 schools currently attached to the club and a further 8 schools to start in September. I have managed to gain funding for adult coaching and schools coaching so nothing gets accomplished for free although i was going down the route of sowing in the schools with work and reaping the benfits at the club!
The club programme is now set in stone and summer camps ready to go. Leaflets are flying out the door as we speak and this is why school work is important to help fill these up for you.
So within one month, two weeks planning, plotting, printing, negotiating and meeting, one week holiday and one week full time work we have a viable business in the club that now requires another coach to help with the ongoing coaching that is to build from here on in.
If you want me to help set up something similar for your club just ask and i can do a makeover for your business as well.
Friday, 21 May 2010
Doing what needs to be done
Its always difficult to step into a club first off and build it up into a viable business. But stick with it and get yourself known. Join in social sessions, set up invitation mornings and play matches for the club to get people talking about you.
Don't forget to attach schools to the club and bring the kids back again.
I have manage to hit on funding for getting adults back into sport, you can claim upto £40 per person for an 8 week course, the one i have planned already has 17 attendees and growing. Be sure to speak with your local sport funding centre and work your way into the school sports rep book!
Every district within the county has one so ask around.
I have come to the conclusion that many clubs fail to have a set in stone programme for all range of standards and ages. Produce a brochure for existing and also prospective members to take and look at. Before long your programmes will be full and you can be planning how to double up on sessions by hiring another coach.
FINALLY, run some tournaments at the club to let the kids know about your services and club. I have managed to get hold of a yearly schools mini red tournament for our club. Use the time to sell drinks and coffees whilst you are there as well as anything else that kids may eat! Then ensure every kid has a copy of the summer camps programme.
On a personal note, i have managed to acquire the coaching services of the Army Tennis Team. This is only for 6 days whereby they will play the inter-services at wimbledon. I guess my ex-army background has helped but like everything its also helps with who you know. Very similar to all the examples i have given above.
Network, network, network and once you have enough contacts, network some more!
Don't forget to attach schools to the club and bring the kids back again.
I have manage to hit on funding for getting adults back into sport, you can claim upto £40 per person for an 8 week course, the one i have planned already has 17 attendees and growing. Be sure to speak with your local sport funding centre and work your way into the school sports rep book!
Every district within the county has one so ask around.
I have come to the conclusion that many clubs fail to have a set in stone programme for all range of standards and ages. Produce a brochure for existing and also prospective members to take and look at. Before long your programmes will be full and you can be planning how to double up on sessions by hiring another coach.
FINALLY, run some tournaments at the club to let the kids know about your services and club. I have managed to get hold of a yearly schools mini red tournament for our club. Use the time to sell drinks and coffees whilst you are there as well as anything else that kids may eat! Then ensure every kid has a copy of the summer camps programme.
On a personal note, i have managed to acquire the coaching services of the Army Tennis Team. This is only for 6 days whereby they will play the inter-services at wimbledon. I guess my ex-army background has helped but like everything its also helps with who you know. Very similar to all the examples i have given above.
Network, network, network and once you have enough contacts, network some more!
Tuesday, 18 May 2010
Time waits for no one!
Why put off tomorrow what you can do today?
''Lets just have one lesson on the serve''.....''Sure''......''I must warn you i have had many lessons and no one has managed to sort out my serve!''.....''Oh that was good, i enjoyed that lets do some more''
Once you have someone for there first ever lesson, make sure for certain its not the last! I always say if something cannot be fixed within 2 minutes or 20 serves then its not worth fixing or you don't really know what you are doing!
Make sure at the end of the lesson that your student no matter who has an understanding of what to do and how to do it. Ask them when they will next practice this in a live situation and constantly check. You may have fixed it but its easy to slip back if the practice isn't constant. Set some practice homework for your students to commit to and you will be fine.
Don't forget word of mouth is more powerful than any advertising! Brochures and posters just back up your on court work and skills.
If you have spare time ensure you get the letters out to the more talented students in other groups inviting them back for more sessions at a later date.
On a personal note my book Tennis Psychology made Easy is starting to sell well, eclipsing the famous book Smart Tennis on Wednesday as we write. Although this may be because everyone has got a copy at this stage! My efforts to get the book in to local shops in Wimbledon have paid off i now get to provide them with copies on demand. I want thousands to be sold over Wimbledon infact more. Maybe this can be the start of something new.
After all time waits for no one!
''Lets just have one lesson on the serve''.....''Sure''......''I must warn you i have had many lessons and no one has managed to sort out my serve!''.....''Oh that was good, i enjoyed that lets do some more''
Once you have someone for there first ever lesson, make sure for certain its not the last! I always say if something cannot be fixed within 2 minutes or 20 serves then its not worth fixing or you don't really know what you are doing!
Make sure at the end of the lesson that your student no matter who has an understanding of what to do and how to do it. Ask them when they will next practice this in a live situation and constantly check. You may have fixed it but its easy to slip back if the practice isn't constant. Set some practice homework for your students to commit to and you will be fine.
Don't forget word of mouth is more powerful than any advertising! Brochures and posters just back up your on court work and skills.
If you have spare time ensure you get the letters out to the more talented students in other groups inviting them back for more sessions at a later date.
On a personal note my book Tennis Psychology made Easy is starting to sell well, eclipsing the famous book Smart Tennis on Wednesday as we write. Although this may be because everyone has got a copy at this stage! My efforts to get the book in to local shops in Wimbledon have paid off i now get to provide them with copies on demand. I want thousands to be sold over Wimbledon infact more. Maybe this can be the start of something new.
After all time waits for no one!
Saturday, 15 May 2010
What is talent?
My second Saturday at the club.
Many things are planned for the future and it sounds like the tour coaching series of courses for coaches will be going ahead. I will plan these dates and subjects by the end of the month and all will be run with ex top 50 WTA or ATP players along with myself as host!
Today was good, my old friend and ex student from the late 90's is improving at a great rate and will be back playing tournaments. The kids sessions were great but have this ingrained need to play silly games! I must remember that tennis is a game and sometimes they want to play for fun not just try and learn all the time. I guess 10 years away and just lecturing has made me realise that not everyone needs to be a champion lol.
However my main aim is to improve everyone to the best of their abilities. You have the workers and grinders, the lazy ones and the ones who just want to learn until they are hooked.
To me talent is when a student enjoys hard work, enjoys improving and learning whilst listening and is athletic. Our job as coaches is to facilitate the improvement of technique and tactics but more importantly and this is a key missing ingredient with alot of coaches, empower the students and players with the ability to problem solve and think.
This week i set up a performance programme which includes 1.5 hours coaching, 1.5 hours drilling and 1.5 hours of pressure point matchplay and psychology. All for £50 per week for a maximum of 8 students. Alongside this the players will get two individual lessons per month and programming and planning for the journey ahead. As coaches this is a great programme and beneficial for all. But for potential players this for sure is not enough, so make sure that set matchplay sessions and practice sessions throughout the week when you have to work with other groups and individuals.
With all plans and programmes now in place, all that is required is to start the school work and add the extra secondary and primary school and we are good to go, full steam ahead and a fill a club that actually loves to have an outstanding junior programme and membership.
Dont forget to email if you want more advice. Right now i still keep in touch with many of you even regarding PTR issues. Just because i have left this part of my life behind me doesn't mean i wont help when needed.
So just holla
Many things are planned for the future and it sounds like the tour coaching series of courses for coaches will be going ahead. I will plan these dates and subjects by the end of the month and all will be run with ex top 50 WTA or ATP players along with myself as host!
Today was good, my old friend and ex student from the late 90's is improving at a great rate and will be back playing tournaments. The kids sessions were great but have this ingrained need to play silly games! I must remember that tennis is a game and sometimes they want to play for fun not just try and learn all the time. I guess 10 years away and just lecturing has made me realise that not everyone needs to be a champion lol.
However my main aim is to improve everyone to the best of their abilities. You have the workers and grinders, the lazy ones and the ones who just want to learn until they are hooked.
To me talent is when a student enjoys hard work, enjoys improving and learning whilst listening and is athletic. Our job as coaches is to facilitate the improvement of technique and tactics but more importantly and this is a key missing ingredient with alot of coaches, empower the students and players with the ability to problem solve and think.
This week i set up a performance programme which includes 1.5 hours coaching, 1.5 hours drilling and 1.5 hours of pressure point matchplay and psychology. All for £50 per week for a maximum of 8 students. Alongside this the players will get two individual lessons per month and programming and planning for the journey ahead. As coaches this is a great programme and beneficial for all. But for potential players this for sure is not enough, so make sure that set matchplay sessions and practice sessions throughout the week when you have to work with other groups and individuals.
With all plans and programmes now in place, all that is required is to start the school work and add the extra secondary and primary school and we are good to go, full steam ahead and a fill a club that actually loves to have an outstanding junior programme and membership.
Dont forget to email if you want more advice. Right now i still keep in touch with many of you even regarding PTR issues. Just because i have left this part of my life behind me doesn't mean i wont help when needed.
So just holla
Thursday, 13 May 2010
More days, more planning and more meetings
So with the passport fiasco behind me and on its way, i can settle back into planning and re-arranging.
Remember when planning your sessions ensure that groups are set for just after school hours so the kids get used to leaving school and coming straight to tennis. Some schools have the ability to take a mini bus of kids from the school to the club which is even better! Parents who work would love this and are willing to pay.
Sometimes, programmes need rearranging along with times to maximise your potential earnings. Work out when the club has quiet times and work out why. Perhaps, this is then key to add in extra coaching sessions. Try not to interfere with social tennis, although to set a group just prior to this will ensure that this also fills quite well.
Now is the time to plan the summer programmes and get them out, the earlier the better. Get them into schools you work in, around the club and anywhere else that maybe fruitful.
Today i had a meeting about funding for schools bar the short deadline to get applications in i can help with this side of life for those interested. After all it all helps and don't forget schools help build the programme and the club. Email me if you want details, the deadlines for primary and secondary schools for next year are October this year.
Now i need to plan the club tournament. Ciao
Remember when planning your sessions ensure that groups are set for just after school hours so the kids get used to leaving school and coming straight to tennis. Some schools have the ability to take a mini bus of kids from the school to the club which is even better! Parents who work would love this and are willing to pay.
Sometimes, programmes need rearranging along with times to maximise your potential earnings. Work out when the club has quiet times and work out why. Perhaps, this is then key to add in extra coaching sessions. Try not to interfere with social tennis, although to set a group just prior to this will ensure that this also fills quite well.
Now is the time to plan the summer programmes and get them out, the earlier the better. Get them into schools you work in, around the club and anywhere else that maybe fruitful.
Today i had a meeting about funding for schools bar the short deadline to get applications in i can help with this side of life for those interested. After all it all helps and don't forget schools help build the programme and the club. Email me if you want details, the deadlines for primary and secondary schools for next year are October this year.
Now i need to plan the club tournament. Ciao
Tuesday, 11 May 2010
Well that's another fine mess you got me into Stanley......
So here is an unusual chain of events...
Sunday print tickets for holiday on 22nd well in advance - Good
Notice member of family has extinct passport - not good
Book 7 day super fast passport appointment in london - good
Turn up and forget birth certificate - not good
Worse still walk off train at stop and leave 3 x passports, cheque book, potential already signed other passport for said person of forgotten birth cert and holiday clothes on train - super not good!
Find passports and related stuff after jumping on next train and chasing train in front to Shoeburyness! - Stroke of luck
Get back in time to continue coaching at club for rest of night - Phew
Beat mens team captain to stamp playing authority on club - Job Done
and tomorrow i get to go upto the passport office again to try again
but.....if you have the ability always stamp your playing standard on a club as soon as possible 'just do it'. With your coaching ability becoming known adding a playing ability makes for a sound grounding and a slight gain of respect has been earn't. But never ever rest on your laurels, remember clients are doing YOU a favour by hiring you, not the other way around.
Next job is to arrange a fun day so everyone gets to 'meet the coach'. I will set out an outline and again post this for you on my web.
Glad this is helping some of you and your emails are always welcome. Even if they are about pathway courses and things that you still need as a PTR member. Always a pleasure, never a chore!
Sunday print tickets for holiday on 22nd well in advance - Good
Notice member of family has extinct passport - not good
Book 7 day super fast passport appointment in london - good
Turn up and forget birth certificate - not good
Worse still walk off train at stop and leave 3 x passports, cheque book, potential already signed other passport for said person of forgotten birth cert and holiday clothes on train - super not good!
Find passports and related stuff after jumping on next train and chasing train in front to Shoeburyness! - Stroke of luck
Get back in time to continue coaching at club for rest of night - Phew
Beat mens team captain to stamp playing authority on club - Job Done
and tomorrow i get to go upto the passport office again to try again
but.....if you have the ability always stamp your playing standard on a club as soon as possible 'just do it'. With your coaching ability becoming known adding a playing ability makes for a sound grounding and a slight gain of respect has been earn't. But never ever rest on your laurels, remember clients are doing YOU a favour by hiring you, not the other way around.
Next job is to arrange a fun day so everyone gets to 'meet the coach'. I will set out an outline and again post this for you on my web.
Glad this is helping some of you and your emails are always welcome. Even if they are about pathway courses and things that you still need as a PTR member. Always a pleasure, never a chore!
Monday, 10 May 2010
Note to self....
Must stretch more!
Right now Mondays are slower days but with the plan now in place and posters on the wall we shall see what happens. Don't forget to put up a poster about your coaching abilities, details and some business cards underneath! This works great and then the only thing to do is get out there and promote yourself in socials, matches and in your coaching! I will add my current poster to my website for you to copy and use yourself.
Hope this all helps!
Right now Mondays are slower days but with the plan now in place and posters on the wall we shall see what happens. Don't forget to put up a poster about your coaching abilities, details and some business cards underneath! This works great and then the only thing to do is get out there and promote yourself in socials, matches and in your coaching! I will add my current poster to my website for you to copy and use yourself.
Hope this all helps!
Saturday, 8 May 2010
Day 5 and first week complete
Okay Saturday at the club is complete two high level individuals and three groups of mini red, orange and green.
The groups are okay the green group however reminds me of the County squad i trained years back. 7 potential county class girls and another i will pull in from mid week. Perfect!
This is what coaching is made for. My years of experience as a tutor and ability for constant and never ending improvement are standing me in good stead! Sometimes you don't realise your abilities until they are used real time.
Posters are up in the club and programmes are set in place, i can't start in ernest until the end of the month but that was always the plan when leaving the PTRuk. Didn't quite turn out that way but i guess there are reasons for this. It seems my life is taking a different direction and my link with my friends seem to be opening doors for me. Plus it also gives me the opportunity to train more for the Vets Tour in earnest, no reason why i can't train every day for this (email me if you are interested in the sessions).
Right now i am working on the Tour Coach book and am adding quotes from Ljubicic and Ivansevic as well. I hope to have the rough draft for just after Wimbledon. Along side this i am planning the Tour Series of courses run by ex WTA players. Keep an eye out for these soon!
My first week has been busy and fulfilling, almost like i have missed this but the simple things in teaching are great and i have decided to start vlogging these for you. The simple games and practices to improve your players. Before long the website will be a wealth of knowledge i have gained over the 16 Years of coaching.
The groups are okay the green group however reminds me of the County squad i trained years back. 7 potential county class girls and another i will pull in from mid week. Perfect!
This is what coaching is made for. My years of experience as a tutor and ability for constant and never ending improvement are standing me in good stead! Sometimes you don't realise your abilities until they are used real time.
Posters are up in the club and programmes are set in place, i can't start in ernest until the end of the month but that was always the plan when leaving the PTRuk. Didn't quite turn out that way but i guess there are reasons for this. It seems my life is taking a different direction and my link with my friends seem to be opening doors for me. Plus it also gives me the opportunity to train more for the Vets Tour in earnest, no reason why i can't train every day for this (email me if you are interested in the sessions).
Right now i am working on the Tour Coach book and am adding quotes from Ljubicic and Ivansevic as well. I hope to have the rough draft for just after Wimbledon. Along side this i am planning the Tour Series of courses run by ex WTA players. Keep an eye out for these soon!
My first week has been busy and fulfilling, almost like i have missed this but the simple things in teaching are great and i have decided to start vlogging these for you. The simple games and practices to improve your players. Before long the website will be a wealth of knowledge i have gained over the 16 Years of coaching.
Friday, 7 May 2010
Day 4
Fridays generally used to be my programme writing day for the PTR. This is where i used to get my motivation and inspiration to write the courses that thousands of you over the years attended. Even though i will continue this now to add to my personal website today was spent printing and sorting out the programmes to be.
Plus i have sent free copies of my book to book shops around Wimbledon to see if anyone will sell them and buy more later. I want a 10,000 book order please!
Now must finish the last bits and then to work on the 'Tour Coaching' book, i will send out a rough cut pre-release to those who are interested with the permission of the Author of course.
Plus i have sent free copies of my book to book shops around Wimbledon to see if anyone will sell them and buy more later. I want a 10,000 book order please!
Now must finish the last bits and then to work on the 'Tour Coaching' book, i will send out a rough cut pre-release to those who are interested with the permission of the Author of course.
Thursday, 6 May 2010
Building Building Building
Okay so day 3 more networking and to add to the secondary school I now have a primary to add to the list. I am after the one big girls private catholic school and another primary. With that the club will be brimming with students. The summer programme just needs adjusting and that will be out to the members along with the programme of events for the year.
I am particularly looking forward to the oncourt fitness hour using the Etcheberry methods, if this works then i will ensure i place one during the day. The little hitters programme will commence after the half term and right now my priorities are to get some sign up sheets for the main events i wish to build and get a poster up with my details in full view of the club.
3 hours of coaching went well, 18 mini reds in the first session with some budding stars, 8 in the orange session and a poor show out of 3 in the next. Saying this throughout the sessions for sure there are some talented youngsters but question is how much? Right now there are some remedial deficiencies in the games as a whole. Consistency and fundamental technique being key but on the bright side they can all rally to some degree or other. Damn the last coach who taught them all to serve though!
Tomorrow is kinda a day off but time to get the tax for last year to the accountant and print what i need for Saturdays sessions. By the beginning of June there should be a full programme being run and then i can start spreading the 'coaching word of mouth' Essex wide.
Once this is all in place then i can plan masterclasses, an Essex wide talent id day with a few 100% 6 month scholarships thrown in for the performance squads.
Lets see. Hope this helps those in charge of their clubs!
I am particularly looking forward to the oncourt fitness hour using the Etcheberry methods, if this works then i will ensure i place one during the day. The little hitters programme will commence after the half term and right now my priorities are to get some sign up sheets for the main events i wish to build and get a poster up with my details in full view of the club.
3 hours of coaching went well, 18 mini reds in the first session with some budding stars, 8 in the orange session and a poor show out of 3 in the next. Saying this throughout the sessions for sure there are some talented youngsters but question is how much? Right now there are some remedial deficiencies in the games as a whole. Consistency and fundamental technique being key but on the bright side they can all rally to some degree or other. Damn the last coach who taught them all to serve though!
Tomorrow is kinda a day off but time to get the tax for last year to the accountant and print what i need for Saturdays sessions. By the beginning of June there should be a full programme being run and then i can start spreading the 'coaching word of mouth' Essex wide.
Once this is all in place then i can plan masterclasses, an Essex wide talent id day with a few 100% 6 month scholarships thrown in for the performance squads.
Lets see. Hope this helps those in charge of their clubs!
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