How to Choose a Racquet for Your Child

How to Choose a Racquet for Your Child

by | Tennis Coaching | 0 comments

One of the questions I frequently receive from tennis parents is: “What racquet should I buy for my son/daughter?”

Before we dive into the details of choosing a tennis racquet, I would like to mention that there are certain recommended racquet specs according to a child’s age. But that does not mean children and parents should strictly follow those recommendations…

We know that children develop differently – some (let’s say) seven-year-olds are taller, some are shorter; some are stronger…

If a child is ready to play with a heavier racquet than the standard recommended, they can do so.

Having said that, here are the recommended racquet lengths according to the children’s age:

  • 21” racquet would be best for 4-5 year olds;
  • 23” long racquet can be used by children of 6-8 years;
  • 25” long racquet would be preferred by 9-10 year olds;
  • 26” racquets are recommended for 10-11 years;
  • 27” can be used by any child that is 12 and older. 

My suggestion for children who are ready to move up to a 27” adult racquet is to choose a light version, under 10 ounces.

But again, if a child is strong and ready to benefit from a heavier racquet (more power, control) while avoiding injuries, they can demo/try and eventually purchase one that is above the standard recommendations.

I would like to present in the following a few details that not only children but adults as well should consider when choosing a new tennis racquet.

Being the most important piece of equipment for any tennis player, the racquet should be carefully analyzed so that it matches the player’s style of play and/or level of performance:

1. Racquet Weight – should be chosen according to the child’s strength.
There is an easy exercise you can do with your child: have them hold the racquet by the handle, take it behind their back with the elbow bent over the dominant shoulder; from there on ask them to swing up like they would be serving; observe how hard it is for them to do that; if it is too heavy, their face will tell you; if it is too light, they’ll also tell you.
Find a racquet that they feel is not too heavy but not too light. If the player should be in doubt, always opt for a slightly heavier frame than a lighter. More weight will help in absorbing the shock that is created at the contact with the ball, thus saving the arm.

2. Grip Size – the child should be able to wrap their hand around the handle (gently) and there should be space enough to put the index finger (of the non-dominant hand) between the fingers tips and heel of the dominant palm; if it is too small or too large they’ll grip it too hard to not lose the racquet from their hand.

3. Racquet Head – this is a debatable subject because some coaches say that a small head (somewhere around 95-98 square inches) forces the child to make a clean contact with the ball, while others suggest that a larger head (105-110) can help the player achieve good contact with the ball easier, thus making it easy to learn or practice their skills.
In my opinion, a racquet that has a circumference of 100 square inches is just about right for most players.

4. Racquet Strings – they’re the most important element of every tennis racquet. That does not mean the others are not important, it is just that no matter how good the racquet is, the strings must be suited to the player’s style of play.
Therefore, here are a few factors related to strings tension, composition, and thickness:

  • Tension – if you want more power, opt for a lower tension; for more control, string it tighter; you can find the specifications of the recommended string tension on the side of the racquet.
  • String composition – can be nylon, polyester, or natural gut – the nylon is the cheapest, the gut is more expensive – you might think that the more expensive the string the better feel; you are not far from the truth but it all depends on what you need: if you break strings a lot you might be ok with playing with thick nylon, for more feel and control you can find some good polyester strings (my favorite choice), or if you can afford to spend more then go for natural gut.
  • There is also the consideration of the thickness of the string: the thinner it is the more it bites into the ball, favoring spin and control, but it breaks sooner.

As you can see, there are quite a few factors you should consider when settling for a particular racquet. But the important part is that the racquet is only as good as the string (composition, tension) you put on.

My recommendation would be to either experiment with a few racquets by enrolling in your nearest pro shop demo program (even online tennis stores have demo programs through which they send you racquets to try before you decide to buy one) or ask a coach’s help in choosing one. A tennis professional stringer can take a look at your swing and style of play before advising you on which path to take in choosing your new tennis racquet.

I wish there would be an easy way, but in fact, the racquet is the most important piece of tennis equipment you will have. That’s why you should not make this decision in a hurry.

For a video presentation of this material (how to choose a tennis racquet for your child) visit the My Daddy / My Coach section or the 10 Lesson Plans program for teaching tennis to beginner players.

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.

What Should Coaches Teach in the First Tennis Lesson

What Should Coaches Teach in the First Tennis Lesson

by | Tennis Coaching | 2 comments

As a tennis coach, the first lesson with a new student is crucial for establishing a connection and setting the tone for future lessons.

I have found that incorporating a mix of fun and technique-based activities in the first lesson helps to engage the student and lay a strong foundation for their future progress.

Before beginning the lesson, take the time to get to know your new student. Ask questions such as:

  • Why do they want to learn tennis?
  • What do they already know about tennis?
  • Have they ever played tennis before?
  • Do they have a favorite pro player?

The answers to these questions will provide insight into the student’s motivation and level of experience and will help you tailor the lesson accordingly.

When introducing yourself to the student, keep it simple but enthusiastic.
Let them know your name and how long you have been playing and teaching tennis.
Express how excited you are to have the opportunity to introduce them to this sport.

To structure the lesson, here are a few key elements to include:

  1. Court dimensions and line names
    It is important for new players to learn the names of the lines, such as the baseline, singles side lines, and service lines. This will help them navigate the court and follow instructions.
  2. Racquet basics
    Explain the different parts of the racquet, including the head, neck, and handle. You can also introduce basic grips without getting into too much detail.
  3. Hand-eye coordination drills
    These will test the student’s physical skills and help them become more comfortable with the racquet.
  4. Forehand groundstroke technique
    This is one of the most basic strokes in tennis and is a good starting point for beginners. Demonstrate the proper technique and then have the student practice the stroke through drills and fun games.

Throughout the lesson, it is important to keep it fun and engaging while also focusing on technique.
Encourage your student, regardless of age, and praise their efforts.

For children, consider providing a small gift at the end of the lesson, such as stickers or candy, to show your appreciation and encourage them to continue coming to lessons.
For adults, pay attention to their needs and interests, and incorporate drills that challenge them and provide a good workout.

By focusing on both technique and fun in the first lesson, you can establish a strong connection with your new students and set them on a path toward success in the sport of tennis.

Watch the video(s) below for more…

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.

Tennis Coaching: How to Engage Students to Practice More Often

Tennis Coaching: How to Engage Students to Practice More Often

by | Tennis Coaching | 4 comments

We all love playing tennis, but we may not enjoy practicing as much.

Often, coaches find it frustrating to see their players not dedicating enough time to practice the skills they learn.

Playing the game is obviously more fun than the repetition required to hone skills like the forehand down the line, kick serve, or drop shot.

So, what can coaches or tennis parents do to engage players in practicing their skills more often?

It all depends on the players: are they beginners, intermediate, or advanced?

If they are beginners, give them ideas for fun tennis drills and games they can practice alone, with a friend, or with a family member. Let them know that you would like to hear about the games or drills they tried before the next lesson. Show interest and give them tasks to accomplish, such as hitting 50 backhands down the line, serving 100 times, playing two sets with a friend, rallying 200 balls over the net, and so on.

If they are intermediate or advanced players, remind them about the benefits of practicing, such as consistency under pressure, better shot placement, winning more matches, more power, and foot speed. For these players, give them tasks to accomplish before the next lesson, such as hitting 100 serves down the T, hitting 50 drop shots, hitting 200 forehands cross-court, serving 50 kick serves to the ad court, and so on.

On or off the court, when it comes to explaining to your students the benefits of practicing and playing more tennis, some will pay attention and follow your advice, while others may need more reminding. People are all different, so it’s important to test what works and what doesn’t.

The bottom line is that self-motivation is a rare thing among most people. This is where the coach or parent must step in. We all need a little push sometimes.

To learn more about how to create exciting practice drills and lesson plans for tennis, check out the Lesson Plans section at WebTennis24.

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.

My Lesson Plan ‘Formula’ for Engaging Tennis Lessons

My Lesson Plan ‘Formula’ for Engaging Tennis Lessons

by | Tennis Coaching | 0 comments

As a tennis coach, I’ve always believed that a good coach needs to understand their students and their motivation behind learning the sport before teaching them. Only after gaining this understanding can a coach tailor lesson plans to suit their students’ needs. Recently, I received an email from a fellow coach that motivated me to share my lesson plan formula, which has proven to be very successful in keeping kids and adults interested in tennis and returning to my classes.

The email read: “Many of my younger (8-11yrs old) beginner students are not willing to follow some of my instructions. They seem to be more interested in fun and games than learning the correct strokes; how can I encourage them to be a little more serious about the game?? (Jim)”

It’s common for beginners, especially those aged 8-11, to prioritize fun games over technical instruction. The repetitive nature of stroke practice can be boring for them. To keep students engaged, coaches should design lesson plans that combine both technical knowledge and fun. With that in mind, I’ve developed a lesson plan formula that I’ve used for years to great success with kids and adults alike.

Here’s my lesson plan formula for a perfect tennis practice:

Step 1 (10 minutes)
Always greet and welcome your students with a big smile on your face, demonstrating your enthusiasm to be their coach. Start the lesson with a warm-up routine that includes exercises such as jogging, carioca, side shuffles, and fun warm-up games like “Caterpillar,” “Toss-Catch-Shuffle,” or “Royal Court.”

Step 2 (15 minutes)
After the warm-up, spend 15 minutes on technique practice. Begin with shadow strokes, and then use a basket to feed various technique drills like three along the line, basket drills, etc. The technical drills should be conducted at the beginning of the class when the students’ attention spans are fresh and they are not yet tired.

Step 3 (5 minutes)
Give your students a five-minute break to pick up the balls and get some water.

Step 4 (10 minutes)
Next, continue with rally games. Even beginners can play fun rally games like “Kings and Challengers” or “In and Out”.

Step 5 (10 minutes)
After the rally games, spend another 10 minutes on technique practice, this time focusing on the serve, volley, and other skills.

Step 6 (10 minutes)
The final 10 minutes of the lesson should be dedicated to footwork drills or games such as “Around the World,” “Potato Race,” or any relay race that gets everybody active and cheering for others. It’s great to finish the class with all the players tired, loud, and happy.

Kids need a balance of technical instruction and fun games to stay interested and focused. Once they begin playing in tournaments, they will understand the importance of learning and practicing the technical and tactical aspects of the game. Therefore, coaches should encourage their students to enter competitions early on in their development, not just to watch others play, but to understand the reason behind practicing those technical skills.

If you’re looking to take your tennis coaching to the next level, consider the Tennis Drills and Lesson Plans for Coaches with more than 900 tennis drills and lesson plans to teach private and group classes, beginner or advanced players.

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 to Teach Tennis to VERY Young Children (3-5 Years Old)

How to Teach Tennis to VERY Young Children (3-5 Years Old)

by | Tennis Coaching | 0 comments

As a tennis coach, I am often asked how to teach the sport to very young children, specifically those aged 3-5 years old. In this article (and video below), I would like to share some tips and techniques that have worked well for me in the past.

Consider the child’s prior experience
First, it is important to consider whether the child has had any prior experience with tennis. If they have, find out whether they have taken private or group lessons. If they are new to the sport, focus on hand-eye coordination exercises and basic techniques.

Introduce games and drills
There are plenty of fun games and drills you can use to keep young children engaged, such as “Throw and Catch,” “Jail Breaker,” “Caterpillar,” and “Potato Race.” Remember, the aim is to keep the lessons fun and active, so try to avoid making them stay in line for too long. Kids of this age group tend to get bored easily, so keep them moving and engaged as much as possible.

Make it fun
In a group setting, when working with children individually, give tasks to the others, such as picking up balls, jumping rope, or bouncing a ball, to keep everybody active. Try to make this fun, too, by turning it into a competition to see who can make the biggest pile of balls on their racket, for example.

Keep the lessons short and intense
For children under 6 years old, I recommend no longer than 45 minutes per lesson, and for 3-4-year-olds, even shorter, around 30 minutes. This ensures they don’t get too tired or exhausted, and they are able to retain what they have learned.

In conclusion, teaching tennis to very young children can be a lot of fun if approached in the right way.

Keep the lessons fun, active, and engaging, and focus on basic techniques and hand-eye coordination exercises. With a little patience and creativity, you will be amazed at how quickly they can pick up the sport!

If you want to learn how to teach tennis to young children consider the following WebTennis24 coaching courses:

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.

Tennis Coaching / 7 Steps to Make Great Connection with Students

Tennis Coaching / 7 Steps to Make Great Connection with Students

by | Tennis Coaching | 2 comments

As a tennis coach at WebTennis24, I often get emails in which players or coaches ask for my opinion on certain subjects. One of them was how to make a good impression as a coach in front of your new students.

In this regard, I made a video that will show you the first 10-15 minutes of what you can do with a new tennis student (beginner or even intermediate). In this video, you’ll find my “magic” formula on how to interact with new students and how to make them feel welcome and excited to learn tennis. It has worked great for me throughout my over 15 years of teaching tennis, and it will guarantee to help you too.

Besides that… in preparation for the upcoming lesson (or a match if you are a tennis player), it is good to develop some “rituals” that prepare you mentally for what comes. 
I used to get quite nervous especially when meeting new students and/or their parents.
So don’t worry: you are not the only one getting nervous; a lot of coaches are too… the students also. If it helps, you can only imagine that your students are more nervous to meet you than you are to meet them. Or, if you are a player before a tennis match, your opponent might be more nervous to play against you than you are.

Here are some of the “rituals” that I do on the way to my lessons in order to ensure that I am properly prepared and my students will find a true professional in me as their coach:

1. In the car, as I drive to the tennis court, I practice some breathing exercises: take a slow deep breath in – hold it for 4 seconds – release slowly; do this about 5 – 7 times.

2. Say positive things to yourself such as: “I can’t wait to meet my students”, “I love what I do”, “This is going to be fun!”, etc.

3. Get on the tennis court at least 10 minutes before your students arrive; prepare all your teaching gear and be ready early.

4. As soon as you see your students coming towards the court, put a smile on your face and walk to them looking happy to see/meet them. Stretch your hand out and introduce yourself first, then ask for their names (memorize it).

5. As you can see in the video I mentioned below, it is important to ask your students questions, and find out about them; that would make them feel welcome and important.

6. If you get nervous, smile; smiling is a great way to help you relax; also, ask your student questions during the lesson: “What do you feel about what I just taught you? Does it make sense? Does it feel natural?” etc.

7. And last… actually this should have been first: make sure you have lesson plans ready (a general plan of drills and things you want to teach before you get on the court). I sometimes carry little pieces of paper with notes that I find important to say or do during the lessons. This helps me to know that I do not leave things out and takes some of the pressure off considering that I don’t have to remember everything.

I hope all these tips are of help to you. Write in the comments box below and let me know your thoughts.

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.

The Best Tennis Advice I Have Ever Received

The Best Tennis Advice I Have Ever Received

by | Tennis Coaching, Tennis Training | 4 comments

 

Tennis, a sport that demands both physical skill and mental fortitude, often puts players in high-pressure situations. Whether it’s a crucial match point or facing a tough opponent, nerves can easily take over. Luckily, there’s a piece of advice that can help players navigate these moments with confidence. In this blog, we’ll explore that advice and other valuable insights that can elevate your game and mindset on the court.

Understanding the Pressure

Feeling nervous before a match is a common experience for many players. At the heart of this anxiety is often the fear of losing or embarrassing oneself in front of others. It’s essential to recognize that this pressure is not just felt by you; your opponent feels it too. Embracing this understanding can be a game-changer.

When I was fourteen, I faced a match that had me feeling particularly anxious. The player I was about to face had a reputation for being exceptionally skilled. I was worried about not just losing, but losing badly. It was at this moment that my father offered me some invaluable advice that I carry with me to this day. He told me, “Stop worrying about your opponent. Let him worry about you.” This simple yet profound statement shifted my perspective.

Shifting Perspectives: Confidence Over Fear

This advice is about flipping the script. Instead of focusing on the potential outcome of the match or the skills of your opponent, redirect your thoughts to your strengths. Remember that you are a good player too. This shift helps alleviate the pressure and allows you to approach the match with a sense of confidence.

Think about it: your opponent may also be feeling the weight of expectations. They might be just as nervous as you are. By acknowledging this, you can relieve some of the tension that comes with competitive play. This mental strategy can be applied to any future matches, especially when you find yourself feeling the pressure.

Building a Strong Mental Game

In tennis, as in life, a strong mental game is crucial. Here are some strategies to help you build confidence and manage nerves effectively:

  • Visualize Success: Spend time visualizing yourself playing well and succeeding in your matches. This mental rehearsal can prepare you for actual competition.
  • Focus on the Process: Instead of fixating on the end result, concentrate on your techniques and strategies during the match. This keeps your mind engaged and less prone to anxiety.
  • Use Positive Self-Talk: Replace negative thoughts with positive affirmations. Remind yourself of your skills and past successes to reinforce your confidence.
  • Practice Mindfulness: Techniques such as deep breathing or meditation can help calm your mind and reduce stress before and during matches.

The Importance of Preparation

Preparation is key to confidence in any sport. The more prepared you are, the more relaxed you will feel on the court. Here are a few ways to ensure you are ready:

  • Consistent Practice: Regular practice not only improves your skills but also builds confidence in your abilities. Ensure you’re practicing all aspects of your game, from serves to volleys.
  • Match Simulation: Play practice matches that simulate the pressure of a real game. This can help you become accustomed to the feeling of competition.
  • Analyze Your Game: After matches, whether you win or lose, take the time to analyze your performance. Understanding what worked and what didn’t can provide valuable insights for improvement.

Coaching Insights: Best Tennis Advice for Coaches

For coaches, imparting the right mindset to players is crucial. Here are some tips to help players develop confidence:

  • Encourage a Growth Mindset: Teach players that every match is an opportunity to learn and grow. Emphasize improvement over perfection.
  • Foster Team Spirit: Create a supportive environment where players encourage one another. This camaraderie can alleviate individual pressure.
  • Focus on Strengths: While it’s important to address weaknesses, spending time on strengths can boost a player’s confidence and enjoyment of the game.

Resources for Players and Coaches

For those looking to deepen their understanding of tennis coaching, there are excellent resources available. Websites like WebTennis24 offer extensive coaching courses, drills, and lesson plans that cater to both players and coaches alike. These tools can help you refine your skills and enhance your coaching techniques.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

– What should I do if I feel nervous before a match?

It’s normal to feel nervous. Try to shift your focus from your opponent to your own game. Remember that they might be just as nervous as you are.

– How can I prepare mentally for a match?

Mental preparation can include visualization techniques, practicing mindfulness, and focusing on positive self-talk. These strategies can help calm your nerves and boost confidence.

– What are some effective warm-up routines before a match?

Incorporate dynamic stretches, light jogging, and practice serves and volleys. A good warm-up can help you feel more physically and mentally prepared.

– How can I help my child manage nerves during matches?

Encourage them to focus on their strengths and remind them that every player feels pressure. Teach them techniques like deep breathing and positive visualization.

Conclusion: Embrace the Challenge

In tennis, as in life, facing challenges head-on is essential for growth. The best tennis advice often comes down to perspective. Remember that your opponent might be just as anxious as you are. By embracing this mindset, you can transform pressure into a powerful tool that enhances your performance. Equip yourself with the right strategies, focus on preparation, and always remind yourself of your capabilities. With these tips, you’re not just playing the game; you’re ready to own it.

For more tennis tips and insights, explore the resources at WebTennis24 and elevate your game today!

 

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.