Preach What You Practice
Most of us are privy to the slogan "practice what you preach". Simply defined as do what you say. From a tennis perspective, I'd like to introduce "preach what you practice". The logical connotation being "apply what you practice".
Our tennis careers are filled with practices and/or lessons specifically designed to improve weaknesses. Whether that be any particular stroke, volley, serve or style of play. The notion that a weakness is identified and addressed is commendable. This oddity alone takes several committed individuals: player, family, and coach. When this type of commitment is given, a lot of blood, sweat, tears and cash are invested.
The reluctance by a player to apply in match play what is taught/learned in practice yields no return on the investment for all parties involved. The frustrating truth is that the weakness, at this point, only exist in match play. Coach and player alike have drilled this so-called weakness to perfection.
The question then is "Why isn't this perfect practice stroke used or perfect in match play"? It boils down to the fear of winning and losing. In practice, the player's focus is on improving. In match play, that focus is channeled toward winning. This is one of the most dangerous traps we, especially juniors, can be entangled in. Winning should never supersede improving.
To avoid this pitfall during match play, there must be a calculated and strategic plan drafted and implemented.
Here are the keys to "Preach What You Practice":
1. The investors should participate in identifying the goal of each match to be played.
2. The goal must be clearly communicated to the player.
3. The adult investors should inspect what they expect.
4. The adult investors should reward the player if the goal is met.
5. The adult investors should enforce repercussions if the goal is not met.
How do we know this works?
Let's take a look at the world's top player, Rafael Nadal.
What weaknesses hindered Nadal from winning Wimbledon prior to '08?
The answers are the serve and net play.
What did Nadal do?
1. Identified his weaknesses
2. Practiced to improved the weaknesses
3. Applied the fruits of his hard work to match play
As a result, he's half way to achieving the Grand Slam; a goal which is certainly obtainable if he continues to implement this philosophy.
Is winning really worth a lifetime of mediocrity? Remember to "Preach what you Practice"!
PS. Near the end of this tip I felt compelled to re-write it for easier reading. Then again, we can always use mental stimulation as a catalyst to jumpstart "Preaching what you Practice" and improving our personal communication skill sets. Why not give them both a try? Feel free to email me for additional clarification regarding this tip if needed.
"Chip and Charge, The Volley is a Powerful Thing"
Coach Ken
Metroplex Tennis Association
January 2009
© Copyright 2006-2012. All rights reserved. Central Texas Tennis Association
For more information, contact CTTA at (512) 280-5800
FROM THE PRO
