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Strokemaster
STROKE MASTER
Given the speed of the modern game the ability to modify and adapt is now even more critical. A number of key positions identified in this month’s image indicate an adaptive stroke that has been performed under significant time pressure.
What do you see?
Head and eyes remain firmly fixated on contact.
Non-dominant is extended and positioned to aid balance on both the backswing and forward swing.
Hips and shoulders have only marginally rotated indicating the speed on the oncoming ball and Tomic’s tactical intent (absorb and redirect). Centre of gravity is lowered to assist balance.
The ball has received the full face of the racquet, made easier by Tomic’s eastern forehand grip.
Back leg is positioned behind and close to the line of the oncoming ball, helping to hold court position and better control thepace of the received ball.
Contact point is very low suggesting Tomic was starved for time and needing to adapt.
Callum Beale, a former professional who achieved singles and doubles rankings on the ATP tour, is Tennis Australia’s Coach and Talent Development Manager in NSW. He has a Bachelor of Applied Science, Human Movement.
PRESENTED BY
www.tennis.com.au/coaches AUGUST 2015 AUSTRALIAN TENNIS MAGAZINE
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