Essentials to Becoming a Top Player and Effective Coach

Key Points

• Stay on an even keel emotionally, not getting too high with the wins or too down with the losses
• Focus on enhancing your strengths and gradually improving your weaknesses
• It’s crucial for coaches to watch their players in matches to identify specific areas for improvement and gain insight into the playing styles and performance levels of top competitors
• Players who are willing to hear the truth make the best students
• The best players have the best footwork, which goes hand in hand with court sense and positioning
• Excessive drilling that isn't match-specific can create difficulties when encountering players with diverse playing styles
• Playing regular matches allows you to apply the skills you've honed in practice and learn to strategize on your own, rather than relying solely on your coach's guidance
• ​​As a coach, it's crucial to consider your players' body types and their parents' heights to develop a game style that anticipates future physical changes and optimizes their long-term potential
• Asking players questions provides valuable insights into their thought processes, enabling you to tailor your coaching approach more effectively to their needs