Coach’s Corner

BY BRANDEN BEETS, USPTA, USTA HIGH PERFORMANCE COACH, USPTR, PPR DIRECTOR OF RACQUET SPORTS

What we say isn’t always what they hear…

Throughout my journey as a coach those words have had a strong impact on my development. Andre Agassi said, “Tennis coaching isn’t about what you know, it’s about what they learn.” I completely agree. Each individual learns differently. Some players need to hear it, others see it, read it, or do it! Our team uses dry erase boards, video analysis, on-court demonstrations, and verbalization to connect with players. The sooner you figure out how your student learns, the easier it is to relay your message!

Personally, I learn best by reading and then doing. As the game has evolved, the study of analytics and game theory has really taken off. I LOVE it. I’m trying to get better as a coach every day and knowing which strategies matter most in winning matches is critical as the team season quickly approaches.

What is the #1 win predictor of a singles or doubles match on hard court? Think about it! When I ask players this question the responses are all over the place. Fewer unforced errors? Higher first serve percentage? Higher return of serve percentage? Deuce points won? Break points converted? Higher winning percentage of rallies lasting between 0-4 shots? 5-8 shots? 9+ shots? Faster first serve?

Researcher Craig O’Shannessy, who has worked with numerous players including Novak Djokovic and Matteo Berrettini, sought to answer this very question. He dissected the last five years of data of every match played at the Australian Open, French Open, and US Open. Every possible metric was calculated. The resounding answer is…. rallies lasting between 0-4 shots (and it wasn’t even close). This goes for men’s AND women’s tennis! This metric is also the highest win predictor for clay court matches.

So, how are we going to use this information to make the practice court more efficient heading into Interclub season? We will be working on the serve, return of serve, serve +1, and the return +1 patterns. The first four shots of a rally!

You’ve heard your coaches say the serve and return of serve are the most important shots in the game of tennis. Now you’ve read it too. Do yourself a favor…book a court and practice some serves! Grab a friend and purposefully hit serves and returns. The season is a few weeks away, so don’t try and make any major changes that will affect your confidence. Do focus on placement, rhythm, and the timing of your serve. Don’t forget to go outdoors and face the adversity of the sun/wind. And don’t roll your eyes at me when in your group lesson we take some time to work on serve and return 

This month marks my One Year Anniversary of joining the team at Springfield Golf & Country Club. Wow, has time flown. I greatly appreciate the support and kindness shown throughout our time together. Thank you for the opportunity. 