Coachlife Sports Podcast EP1

In this conversation, Peter Clarke interviews Todd Larkham, a former professional tennis player and coach. They discuss Todd's career as a player, his coaching experience with top juniors like Nick Kyrgios, and his coaching philosophy. Todd emphasizes the importance of developing a strong serve and forehand, as well as the role of the coach in creating a comprehensive training environment. He also shares insights from watching the Coach Life content and highlights the importance of continuous learning as a coach. In this conversation, Todd Larkham discusses the importance of continuous technical development in tennis, the role of the junior coach, the influence of parents, and the key elements of player preparation and post-match analysis. He emphasizes the need for consistent messaging, adaptability in coaching, and the development of personal characteristics and professionalism. Larkham also shares a funny story about Nick Kyrgios' competitive nature.

(00:00) Introduction and Todd's Career

(02:20) Coaching Nick Kyrgios and Top Juniors

(08:28) Developing a Strong Serve and Forehand

(13:41) Creating a Comprehensive Training Environment

(19:29) The Importance of Clay and Indoor Courts

(27:37) Teaching the Ash Barty Style and Individualizing Coaching

(30:58) Improving Movement and Technique

(33:50) The Constant Need to Clean Up Technique

(36:07) Continuous Learning as a Coach

(42:31) The Influence of Parents in Player Development

(50:15) Player Preparation: Focus on Preparation, Tactics, and Mental Routines

(53:00) The Importance of Rest and Recovery

(01:03:30) Nick Kyrgios' Competitive Nature and Ability to Find a Way to Win

Sign up for a 7-day free trial at ⁠Coachlife.com⁠ and gain access to over 400 videos from from 22 of the greatest coaches of all time!