Daily Insights 12 [Key Concepts in Tennis]

There are a few key concepts in tennis that must be understood early on to find success at any level you aspire to reach.

At the most fundamental stage of development for competitive point play, we begin with what I call the 5 Golden Rules of Tennis. The essential foundations that guide how players think, move, and perform on the court.

1. Hustle for EVERY ball

   • Run for every shot, no excuses. Train your mind to believe your legs can reach every ball.

2. NEVER hit defense in the net

   • The thought process should be: buy time and play safe. Be smart, send the ball high and up the middle of the court.

3. NEVER hit offense long

   • Offensive shots should be lower over the net. This takes time away from the opponent. Keep your body down, drive through the contact.

4. Be your own Coach

   • Competitive matches don’t allow Coaching. Push yourself stay competitive, and motivate always. You are your only support from the start to the finish of the match.

5. LEARN from every match

   • Every competitive match is an opportunity to learn. Make the best of your matches, collect data, and go back to the drawing board to be better for the next opportunity.

In a deeper dive and a more detailed understanding of core concepts in tennis, we will explore the following:

1. Understanding of how to hit your strokes correctly.

2. Understanding where to hit the ball from basics to advanced placement.

3. Understanding what strategy is and what is suitable for you and your game specifically.

4. Understanding what Physical fitness is necessary for success.

5. Understanding what mental training/fortitude is necessary for success.

Having a proficient understanding of the above is sufficient to be a Top D1 College player. Essentially good enough for a level just below that of Challenger level Pro Tennis. This comes from a place of understanding, knowledge, time in the sport, and years of playing.