Essential Tips for Aspiring Tennis Coaches

Essential Tips for Aspiring Tennis Coaches

by | Tennis Coaching | 0 comments

Career-Boosting Tips for Young Tennis Coaches

Starting a career as a tennis coach can be both exciting and challenging. For young coaches, the journey is often filled with learning experiences that can shape their approach and effectiveness. Here are two invaluable tips that can help elevate your coaching skills and set you on the right path.

Table of Contents

1. Learn from the Best

The first step to becoming a better coach is to surround yourself with experienced professionals. Finding a top tennis coach in your area and offering to work for them for free or as a volunteer can be a game-changer. This approach not only allows you to gain hands-on experience but also provides invaluable insights into the nuances of coaching.

When I started my coaching career, I took this step, and it made a significant impact on my development. Working alongside a seasoned coach helped me clarify many questions I had about tennis coaching. The best part? Most experienced coaches are more than willing to share their knowledge and answer your questions, especially if they see your enthusiasm and willingness to learn.

How to Approach a Top Coach

  • Do Your Research: Identify the best coaches in your area. Look for those with a strong track record and positive reputation.
  • Make the Offer: Approach them politely and express your interest in learning. Offer your help with lessons, practice sessions, or any tasks they may need assistance with.
  • Be Proactive: Once you start volunteering, be observant and take notes. Ask questions when appropriate to deepen your understanding.

This experience can provide you with a wealth of knowledge that you won’t find in textbooks or online courses. The practical insights you gain will be instrumental in shaping your coaching philosophy and methods.

2. Invest in Private Lessons

If volunteering isn’t feasible for you, consider investing in private lessons with top professionals. This option allows you to learn directly from experienced coaches in a structured setting. During my early days, I scheduled private lessons with some of the best coaches in my area, and it was a game-changer for my development.

When you book these lessons, be clear about your intentions. Let the coach know that you’re not just there for a typical lesson; instead, you want to learn from their expertise. This transparency can lead to a more focused and beneficial session.

Preparing for Your Private Lessons

Before your lessons, take the time to prepare a list of questions or topics you want to discuss. This preparation will ensure that you make the most of your time with the coach. Here are some tips on how to prepare:

  • Identify Your Goals: Determine what specific areas you want to improve in your coaching skills.
  • Prepare Questions: Create a list of questions that address your concerns or areas where you seek clarification.
  • Be Open to Feedback: Approach the session with an open mind. Be ready to receive constructive criticism and adapt your methods accordingly.

By investing in your development through private lessons, you can gain insights that will enhance your coaching abilities and help you connect better with your students.

Conclusion

Becoming a successful tennis coach requires dedication, a willingness to learn, and a proactive approach. By seeking mentorship from experienced coaches and investing in private lessons, you can accelerate your growth and effectiveness as a coach. Remember, the journey of coaching is not just about developing future stars; it’s also about instilling a love for the sport in your students. Embrace the process, enjoy coaching, and watch your skills flourish!

2 Tips for Young Tennis Coaches

FAQ

What should I look for in a mentor coach?

Look for a coach with a strong reputation, proven results, and a coaching style that resonates with you. It’s important that they are open to sharing their knowledge and willing to invest time in mentoring you.

How much should I expect to pay for private lessons?

Prices can vary widely depending on the coach’s experience and location. Typically, you can expect to pay anywhere from $50 to $200 per hour. Consider it an investment in your career.

How can I find a coaching mentor?

Network within your local tennis community, attend coaching clinics, and reach out to coaches you admire. Don’t hesitate to express your interest in learning from them.

Is volunteering really beneficial for my coaching career?

Absolutely! Volunteering provides hands-on experience, helps you build connections in the tennis community, and allows you to gain insights that are crucial for your development as a coach.

What if I can’t find a mentor or private lessons in my area?

If local options are limited, consider online coaching courses and webinars. Many experienced coaches offer digital resources that can help you improve your skills from anywhere.

Cosmin Miholca

Cosmin Miholca

Certified Tennis Coach

Ready to improve your tennis further?
Let’s get started!

Drive Volley Tennis Lesson: Technique, Tactics, Drills

Drive Volley Tennis Lesson: Technique, Tactics, Drills

by | Tennis Coaching | 0 comments

Table of Contents

What, where, and when to hit a drive volley in tennis 🎾

The drive volley is a unique shot in tennis, combining elements of both groundstrokes and volleys. Essentially, it’s like a groundstroke that you take in the air, without letting the ball bounce. This shot is typically executed when you find yourself around the service line or slightly further back. The key is to recognize the opportunity to hit a drive volley, especially when your opponent is out of position.

For instance, if your opponent is struggling to return a wide ball and is off the court, it’s your chance to take the ball early and redirect it into the open space. This not only puts pressure on your opponent but often results in an easy putaway shot. The topspin generated from hitting the ball in the air can also give the shot more power and control as it bounces.

Technical details of the drive volley

When executing a drive volley, it’s essential to use the correct grip. Unlike the continental grip used for volleys at the net, you should hold the racket with a groundstroke grip, either eastern or semi-western. This grip allows for more topspin and control.

As you prepare to hit, focus on a short backswing and aim to make contact at shoulder level. This ensures that you maintain control of the shot while generating power. Practicing this technique will help you become more comfortable with hitting the ball in the air.

Drive volley basket tennis drills

To develop your drive volley skills, start with basket-fed drills. Begin by hitting balls fed to you at mid-court, focusing on taking them in the air. This drill helps you get the feel for the shot without the pressure of a rally. Here’s a simple progression:

  • Start by hitting balls in the air from the service line.
  • Gradually increase the difficulty by rallying balls back to your partner.
  • On the third ball, step forward and execute the drive volley.

These drills will build your confidence and technique, making you more effective during match play.

Drive volley rally tennis drills

Once you’re comfortable with basket-fed drills, you can incorporate the drive volley into rally situations. Here’s a drill to try:

  • Begin at the service line and rally with your partner.
  • After two groundstrokes, step forward on the third ball and hit a drive volley.

This drill mimics match conditions and helps you practice recognizing when to take control with the drive volley. The aim is to develop your timing and decision-making skills, essential for using this shot effectively in a game.

More basket-fed tennis drills for drive volley and court transition

In addition to the above drills, you can also work on your court transition while practicing your drive volley. Here’s a suggested drill:

  • Start behind the baseline and hit two groundstrokes.
  • On the third shot, step inside the service line and execute a drive volley.
  • Repeat this on both forehand and backhand sides to ensure balanced practice.

This drill not only enhances your drive volley technique but also helps you practice moving forward into the court, which is crucial for maintaining pressure on your opponent.

tennis coaching: how to hit a drive volley

FAQ ❓

What is a drive volley?

A drive volley is a shot that combines elements of both a groundstroke and a volley. It’s executed in the air, typically from around the service line, and is aimed at taking advantage of openings in your opponent’s positioning.

When should I use a drive volley?

You should consider using a drive volley when your opponent is out of position, and the ball is coming towards you at a height that allows for a clean strike. It’s an aggressive shot that can lead to easy points if executed correctly.

What grip should I use for a drive volley?

Use a groundstroke grip, such as an eastern or semi-western grip, rather than the continental grip typically used for volleys at the net. This grip allows for better topspin and control.

How can I practice my drive volley?

Start with basket-fed drills, then move to rally drills where you incorporate the drive volley after two groundstrokes. Transitioning from the baseline to the service line while practicing will also help improve your overall game.

For more detailed coaching resources, check out Tennis Coaching Courses / Drills, Lesson Plans, Coaching Courses.

 

Cosmin Miholca

Cosmin Miholca

Certified Tennis Coach

Ready to improve your tennis further?
Let’s get started!

Improve Your Tennis Serve with These 3 Toss Drills

Improve Your Tennis Serve with These 3 Toss Drills

by | Tennis Coaching, Tennis Training | 0 comments

Improving your serve in tennis begins with a consistent and effective toss. A well-executed toss can elevate the overall quality of your serve, helping players to achieve better balance and confidence. In this article, we will explore three essential serve toss tennis drills that are particularly beneficial for beginners. These drills will help players develop a reliable toss, which is crucial for mastering the serve.

 

Table of Contents

 

Understanding the Importance of the Toss

The serve is one of the most complex strokes in tennis, and the toss is an essential part of it. As a coach, I emphasize the significance of the toss when teaching beginners. The following drills will help players grasp the concept and execution of a proper toss.

Tennis player serving

Photo by Gonzalo Facello on Unsplash

 

Drill 1: Lifting the Ball

The first drill focuses on lifting the ball rather than throwing it. This distinction is crucial for beginners to understand. For this drill, players should aim to lift the ball with minimal spin, which encourages them to avoid flicking their wrist or using their fingers excessively.

To perform this drill:

  1. Have the player get into the serve-ready position.
  2. Instruct them to lift the ball straight up while keeping their eyes on it.
  3. Encourage them to feel the lift, ensuring that the ball spins as little as possible.

This drill helps players develop a feel for lifting the ball correctly, setting a solid foundation for their serve.

 

Drill 2: Proper Release

The second drill (see the video above) aims to teach players about the timing of the release. Many beginners release the ball too early, causing inconsistency in their toss. This drill encourages players to maintain their arm extension after releasing the ball.

To execute this drill:

  1. Have the player lift the ball as in the first drill.
  2. Instruct them to hold their arm extended towards the sky after releasing the ball.
  3. Encourage them to keep their arm up until they hear the ball bounce.

This exercise promotes balance and proper posture, allowing players to wait for the ball to descend before striking it. It mirrors the technique of professional players who maintain arm extension until the ball is ready to be hit.

Tennis serve arm extension

Photo by Moises Alex on Unsplash

 

Drill 3: The Toss Landing Spot

The third drill emphasizes the ideal landing spot for the tossed ball. It is important for players to understand where the ball should ideally land in relation to their body. To help them visualize this, you can use a pyramid of balls placed ahead of the tip of their front foot.

To conduct this drill:

  1. Set up a small pyramid of balls about a foot in front of the player’s front foot.
  2. Instruct the player to toss the ball and aim for it to land on the pile of balls.
  3. Encourage them to adjust their toss until they can consistently land the ball on the pyramid.

This drill reinforces the concept of toss placement and helps players develop muscle memory for where their ball should ideally land (if letting it drop).

 

Recap of Key Drills

These three drills are designed to help beginning players develop a solid serve toss foundation:

  • Drill 1: Lifting the Ball – Focus on a minimal spin.
  • Drill 2: Proper Release – Maintain arm extension after release.
  • Drill 3: The Toss Landing Spot – Aim for the desired landing area.

Incorporating these drills into practice sessions can lead to significant improvements in a player’s serve. Consistency in the toss will eventually translate to better serves, increased confidence, and overall performance on the court.

 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why is the toss so important in tennis serves?

A: The toss is crucial because it sets the stage for the entire serve. A consistent toss allows players to focus on their mechanics and timing, which leads to a more effective serve.

Q2: How high should I toss the ball?

A: The toss should be high enough to allow for full extension of your hitting arm but not so high that it becomes difficult to control (especially on windy days).

Q3: What should I do if I keep missing my toss?

A: If you struggle with your toss, practice the drills outlined above. Focus on lifting the ball with minimal spin and aim for a consistent landing spot. Remember, practice makes perfect!

Q4: Can I practice my toss without a tennis court?

A: Yes! You can practice your toss at home or in any open space. Just ensure you have enough room to lift the ball without obstruction.

Q5: Are there additional resources for improving my serve?

A: Absolutely! For further learning, check out Ultimate Tennis Serve or explore Visual Tennis Lessons and Progression Drills courses.

With consistent practice, these drills will help you develop a reliable serve toss, setting you up for greater success on the court. Remember, the key to a great serve lies in a consistent toss!

Cosmin Miholca

Cosmin Miholca

Certified Tennis Coach

Ready to improve your tennis further?
Let’s get started!

Tennis Ball Feeding to Young Kids: A Guide for Parents

Tennis Ball Feeding to Young Kids: A Guide for Parents

by | Tennis Coaching | 2 comments

Teaching your children to play tennis can be a rewarding experience, but it’s essential to know the right techniques, especially when it comes to tennis ball feeding to young kids. This guide will help you understand how to properly toss the ball and choose the right equipment for your little ones.

🎾 The Importance of Proper Ball Tossing

Many parents often toss the ball overhand, which can cause it to bounce too high. This results in kids making contact with the ball at shoulder level or higher, which is not ideal.
Instead, you should toss the ball underhand. This method allows it to bounce lower, enabling your child to make contact at waist level.

🎾 Choosing the Right Tennis Balls

The type of tennis ball used is equally important. For children around nine years old, a ball with a green dot is suitable. For younger kids (about seven or eight years old), you might consider using orange balls. If your child is even younger, opt for sponge balls, which are oversized, softer, and slower.
Using the right techniques and equipment will make learning tennis more enjoyable for your kids. For a comprehensive course on how to teach children tennis, check out My Daddy My Coach.
With the right approach, your children will develop a love for tennis that lasts a lifetime.
Happy coaching!

Cosmin Miholca

Cosmin Miholca

Certified Tennis Coach

Ready to improve your tennis further?
Let’s get started!

How I Decided to Teach My Children to Play Tennis

How I Decided to Teach My Children to Play Tennis

by | Tennis Coaching | 0 comments

When I decided to teach tennis to my children, it was likely one of the most exciting and “scary” choices I’d ever made.

I wanted to introduce them to a sport they might love and enjoy for the rest of their lives.

It all began when my wife and I realized that no one would ever be as passionate about teaching our children as we, the parents, would be.

At that time, I had been a tennis player for many years and a newly certified, enthusiastic coach. I began taking my two daughters, then aged 4 and 5 respectively, onto the court to show them some fun hand-eye coordination tennis drills that kids seem to love.

In the beginning, it was all about fun games: hitting the (sponge) ball over the net and counting how many times they could do it, catching and throwing, chasing each other around the court – everything to make them excited and happy to get back on the court the next day. 

Technique didn’t matter. As long as they enjoyed being on the court with me and hitting balls, it was all good.

My goal was to get them to enjoy tennis or at least the idea of hitting a ball with a racquet. I did accomplish that: my daughters were happy and had fun chasing the balls.

But the coach in me wanted to see them begin working on proper technique and view tennis as a game that requires a specific way to hit the ball, learn how to play points, and eventually develop a competitive spirit while improving their new skills.

That’s why I decided to get my two daughters involved in group lessons so they could see other kids playing and enjoying tennis. They would eventually learn by observing the kids around them focusing and practicing proper technique and footwork.

It was a great idea that helped me transition them towards hitting the ball with a focus on the technical elements.

As a result, my daughters realized (by observing other kids in their group classes) that striking the ball should be done in a certain way, and that technique and footwork were important.

Eventually, as I began working with my daughters on the mechanics and incorporating fun competitive games, another good idea came to mind:

I decided to share our lessons with parents and tennis coaches who would also be interested in teaching their children and learning how to do it following a well-organized method. 

This is how the My Daddy / My Coach video series was born.

I wanted to show all interested coaches and tennis parents how I introduced my daughters to tennis, from ages 5-6 until their competitive junior years, 12-13. 

In this program, I share the technical aspects I taught my daughters, the games and drills we played, and any other tips that my experience as a coach at the time allowed me to teach not only my children but also anyone who wanted to learn as well.

Now, my two daughters are teenagers and, in addition to their love for tennis, they enjoy other sports as well.

But my greatest personal achievement was introducing and teaching my children a sport that I know they will appreciate for the rest of their lives.

And they will tell everyone that “my daddy was also my tennis coach”.

Help your child develop essential tennis skills while having fun. Join My Daddy / My Coach and watch your child’s game improve!

 

Cosmin Miholca

Cosmin Miholca

Certified Tennis Coach

Check out my work at WebTennis24 where I share with you my best video tennis lessons, drills and tips for players, coaches and tennis parents.

Question From Tennis Parent

Question From Tennis Parent

by | Tennis Coaching | 0 comments

I recently had a conversation with a tennis parent, who is helping his 10-year-old son to develop his game.

After taking lessons for a couple of years, he noticed that his son tends to hit a lot of the balls back to his opponent, and the father asked me ‘How to guide him to place the ball better?’

Here are the answer and tips I gave him:

“This is a common problem with (young) players who are used to doing a lot of drills and very few matches: they are used to hitting the ball back to a partner or coach.

On the other hand, players who grow up with a game-based approach are better at tactically placing the balls.

There are certain drills you can do with your son. For example:

  1. You stand on one side and have him hit two balls back to you, the third one away from you (put it away).
  2. Play a set (or a few games) where he will lose the point if he hits the ball back to you (which means you would have to make at least two steps to get to the ball).
  3. Feed balls to him from the basket while you stand in the middle of the court (just behind the service line center); after each feed, stretch your racket or arms to the side and you should not be able to touch (without moving) the balls sent by him. He gets a point if he can pass the ball without you touching it, otherwise, you get a point. Play first to win 10 points.

The bottom line is that, in my opinion, your son got used to drills where he had to hit the ball back to the coach/partner. Do drills where he aims to targets or any area away from the coach or parent.”

Do you agree with the tips I gave this tennis parent? Do you have any extra suggestions to improve somebody’s ball placement and creativity when it comes to playing?

Let me know in the comment box below.

Want to learn the secrets of effective tennis coaching? Enroll into 10 Lesson Plans / How to Teach Tennis and discover how to inspire and teach your students!

 

Cosmin Miholca

Cosmin Miholca

Certified Tennis Coach

Check out my work at WebTennis24 where I share with you my best video tennis lessons, drills and tips for players, coaches and tennis parents.

How I Learned the One-Handed Backhand… And You Can Too

How I Learned the One-Handed Backhand… And You Can Too

by | Tennis Coaching, Tennis Training | 2 comments

The following is a personal story of when I decided to switch from a two-handed to a one-handed backhand.

But first, I want to take you back to the time I started to play tennis (at the age of 12)…

I was a skinny boy with weak wrists and forearms. 

I barely had any control of my forehand, but my two-handed backhand was the main shot that I could rely on even when playing against older and more powerful players.

For many years, I had trusted the backhand more than any other tennis shot.

Later on, with the help of my father, who was willing to feed balls to me from the basket, I began to develop the forehand in order to catch up with my strong two-handed backhand.

My father would feed hundreds of balls every day to my forehand until I started feeling equally confident on both sides.

But then…

Years later, when I became a tennis coach, I realized that I needed to hold a few tennis balls in my non-dominant hand as I was rallying with my students, and so I decided to…

…”teach” myself the one-handed backhand… with which I fell in love from the first day.

It was not hard because I followed a series of progression drills that really helped me to understand the point of contact, the body balance (which is different than that of the two-handed backhand), and, of course, through a lot of repetition, I developed the timing necessary to hit the ball early.

The progression drills that I followed to learn the one-handed backhand are the same I use now to teach many students all the tennis strokes. 

And I put them all inside the WebTennis24 program which you can have full access to:

ULTIMATE TRAINING FOR TENNIS PLAYERS – learn and master the one-handed and two-handed backhand groundstrokes, and more

Tennis is easy if you break it down into small tasks and put in the time to practice them.

Have fun learning or teaching this sport!

Cosmin Miholca

Cosmin Miholca

Certified Tennis Coach

Check out my work at WebTennis24 where I share with you my best video tennis lessons, drills and tips for players, coaches and tennis parents.