Seeing is Believing, but Believing is Seeing: The Power of Open-Mindedness in Personal and Athletic Growth
In the tennis world filled with diverse challenges and experiences, the saying "seeing is believing" holds significant truth. However, there's an equally compelling truth that often goes unnoticed— ”believing is seeing”. In this blog, we'll delve into the profound impact of open-mindedness on our ability to perceive, learn, grow, and develop into improved and better players.
Seeing brings truth to something:
The act of seeing uncovers the reality of our competitiveness, but this truth is based on our willingness to open our minds to the multiple challenges experienced during competition. Simply waiting and trying to see, without believing, might cause us to become blind to the keen lessons and opportunities that may lie right before us.
Closed-mindedness and missed opportunities:
A closed mind can be a barrier to growth, learning, and development. Numerous opportunities during matches and competitions often go unnoticed by those who are unwilling to believe in possibilities beyond their preconceived notions or expectations. It's crucial to recognize that being closed-minded may limit our ability to learn and hinder personal and athletic development.
The consequences of closed-mindedness:
Closed-mindedness, entrenched in fear and a reluctance to accept change and adaptation (adjustments), can lead to a lot of negative outcomes. From interpersonal conflicts to a lack of progress and innovation, the impact is extensive. Cancel culture, the ultimate expression of closed-mindedness, can have detrimental effects on both personal and athletic career growth.
Opening a Closed Mind:
To break free from closed-mindedness, consider active steps such as asking others on your team to keep an open mind, presenting strong evidence of why and how it works for you, discussing thoughtful alternatives, choosing the right timing to make challenges or emphasizing benefits, and presenting ideas as gradual changes rather than radical changes.
Believe to see:
Belief acts as a lens through which we interpret and gain growth. Whether it's in our abilities, game plans, game styles, or personal growth, belief paves the way for improvements. Great coaches understand this principle well—instilling belief in athletes maximizes commitment, leading to enhanced confidence, growth, and a greater chance of achieving goals.
Conclusion:
In the complex dance between seeing and believing, open-mindedness appears as the core. Embracing different perspectives, being willing to learn, and cultivating belief are essential for personal and athletic growth. So, as you navigate the complexities of competition, remember: seeing may bring truth to your athletic ability, but it's believing that unlocks the door to a world of possibilities and growth.
Mastering the Moment: The Power of Personal Strategies in Sports
In the fast-paced world of sports, it's easy to get caught up in the excitement of the game, the pressure to perform, and the desire to get ahead. However, true success on the court goes beyond physical prowess—it requires mastering the mental game. Players, Coaches, and Parents let's delve into the significance of being present on the court and how finding a personalized strategy can make all the difference.
Embracing the Journey:
The journey in sports is not just about victories and defeats; it's a continuous process of growth and self-discovery. Every player brings a unique set of skills, challenges, and strengths to the game. Embracing this journey involves recognizing that improvement is a constant, ongoing effort.
Mastering the Moment:
To truly excel on the court, one must learn to master the moment. Being fully present during a game can significantly impact performance. It's not about getting ahead of yourself or focusing on the past; it's about being immersed in the play, making split-second decisions, and staying focused. This is where personal strategies come into play.
“Whenever Jordan was asked what the score was in a game, he would respond, "It's zero to zero." He knew the score, but he made a conscious effort always to treat the game like it was zero to zero. He wanted to play that possession like he was trapped in the moment. A unique perspective, but it was one of the ways he avoided complacency and was able to keep the pressure on his opponents. Might explain why many say he's the greatest basketball player ever to live. “ JJ Birden——Former NFL Player and Motivational Speaker
The Power of Personal Strategies:
Strategic planning gives an athlete a competitive advantage since it involves thoroughly analyzing their internal strengths and weaknesses. It also considers new opportunities and external threats, helping the athlete identify unique capabilities and areas where they can outperform competitors.
Each player is different, and what works for one may not work for another. Hence, it's crucial to discover a strategy that resonates with you personally. Here are a few strategies that players can explore to bring themselves back to the present moment:
Deep Breathing Techniques: Encourage players to practice deep breathing exercises to calm the mind and refocus their energy. A few moments of conscious breathing can make a significant difference in managing stress and maintaining concentration.
Visualization: Guide players to visualize successful plays, positive outcomes, and their personal strengths. Visualization helps create a mental blueprint for success, enhancing confidence and performance on the court.
Personal Mantras: Introduce the concept of personal mantras—short, powerful statements that resonate with the individual. Whether it's "I am unstoppable" or "One play at a time," these mantras can serve as anchors, bringing players back to the present moment.
Conclusion:
In the dynamic world of sports, the ability to master the moment is a skill that can set players apart. It's not about the destination; it's about the journey and the continuous growth that comes with it. By embracing personal strategies, players can enhance their mental resilience, focus, and overall performance. Coaches and parents play a vital role in supporting players on this journey, helping them discover strategies that work best for their unique personalities. So, let's champion the power of the present and watch as players flourish on and off the court. 🏀💪 #MasterTheMoments #OwnYourGame #MindfulBallers
Nicole Gibbs: From Stanford Tennis to WTA 68 Ranking
Welcome back to 🎾 A’lotta Racket Podcast, where our seasoned coaches Roger "Slinger" Smith, Victory "Troy" Collins, and Terry "T-dawg" Davis dive into the world of tennis with a special guest, the phenomenal Nicole Gibbs. Join us as Nicole opens up about her remarkable journey, starting from her early tennis days at USTA training alongside mentor Roger Smith and players like Sloane Stephens.
🏆 Collegiate Triumphs: As a collegiate sophomore, Nicole Gibbs earned the prestigious 2012 Honda Sports Award for tennis, recognizing her as the nation's top junior female player. A historic sweep of the NCAA singles and doubles titles in 2012 solidified her status as a tennis powerhouse during her Stanford days.
🌟 Pro Circuit Adventures: Delve into Nicole's professional accolades, from her victories at WTA Premier qualifiers to memorable matches at the US Open and beyond. Learn about her experiences playing against tennis greats like Serena Williams and her historic Grand Slam moments at the US Open and Australia Open. 🎾 Life Beyond Tennis: Nicole candidly shares her battle with microcystic adnexal carcinoma, a rare form of sweat gland cancer, and her triumphant journey back to the court. In a heartfelt revelation, she discusses the support of her husband, Jack, whom she met at Stanford, and their adorable baby girl.
💪 Mental Health and Resilience: Nicole delves into her experiences dealing with anxiety, anxiety attacks, and mental health challenges, shedding light on the importance of mental well-being in the world of professional sports.
🔥 Retirement Announcement: On February 15, 2021, Nicole Gibbs took to social media to announce her retirement from professional tennis, marking the end of a remarkable chapter in her athletic career.
🎙️ Join us for this intimate conversation with Nicole Gibbs as we explore the highs, the hurdles, and the heartwarming moments that define her incredible journey both on and off the court!
🎥✨ 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alottaracket/
🎥 YouTube: https://youtube.com/@AlottaRacket?si=...)
👍 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/alottaracket
🎧 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1I11gRQ...
📷 Tik tok: www.tiktok.com/@alottaracket
THE COMPELLING STORY OF RANCE BROWN (PT 2)
🎾 Welcome to the A'lotta Racket Podcast - Episode:
"Championing Collegiate Tennis Success with Rance Brown! (Pt. 2)" 🏆 In this week's thrilling episode, our hosts Roger "Slinger" Smith, "Victory" Troy Collins, Terry "T Dawg" Davis, and Errol "Ez" Smith III dive into the world of collegiate tennis alongside our esteemed guest, Rance Brown, the associate head coach of the powerhouse UCLA women's tennis team hailing from Orange County.
Join us as we uncover the dynamic coaching journey shared by Errol and Rance at UCLA, delving into their experience in nurturing this year's NCAA singles champion, Tian Fangran. Rance divulges key insights into what it takes to succeed as a collegiate athlete, highlighting the essential attributes he looks for when scouting players for the prestigious UCLA team, emphasizing character and upbringing.
But that's not all! We discuss the vital role of college attendance in paving the way for a successful professional tennis career. Rance shares personal anecdotes and invaluable advice on how he ascended to become the associate head coach, offering guidance for those aspiring to become volunteer assistant coaches in college tennis.
This episode is a gold mine of wisdom, designed to educate and inspire players and aspiring athletes. As we explore the crucial components of success both on and off the court, our aim is to provide hope and guidance to the next generation of champions.
Tune in for an enlightening and motivational conversation on how to thrive in collegiate tennis and beyond. Don't miss out! Like, share, and subscribe to the A'lotta Racket Podcast to stay updated with the champions of the game! 🎙️🌟
📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alottaracket/
🎥 YouTube: https://youtube.com/@AlottaRacket?si=...
👍 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/alottaracket
🎧 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1I11gRQ...
📷 Tik tok: www.tiktok.com/@alottaracket
And a special shoutout to our incredible sponsor, Champion Ford, for their support in bringing this episode to life!
Champion Ford
701 West Coal Ave
Gallup NM 87301 (505)
722-6621
THE COMPELLING STORY OF UCLA COACH RANCE BROWN (Pt 1)
Welcome to A'lotta Racket: The Tennis Podcast for Champions, where we delve into the thrilling world of tennis with the most influential figures in the sport. Your hosts, the dynamic quartet featuring the insightful Roger "Slinger" Smith, Errol "EZ" Smith III, the seasoned Terry "T-Dawg" Davis, and the ever-victorious "Victory" Troy Collins, bring you the ultimate tennis experience!
This week, we have an extraordinary guest joining us on the podcast: Rance Brown, the Associate Head Coach of UCLA Women's Tennis. With an illustrious career spanning 26 seasons, Rance's accolades speak volumes. Notably, he was named the ITA Collegiate National Assistant Coach of the Year in 2000 and 2012, achieved NCAA titles in 2008 and 2014, and celebrated an impressive 26-year streak of appearances in the NCAA tournament.
Rance Brown's impact isn't just in numbers but in nurturing champions. He played a pivotal role in the success stories of NCAA Single Champions like Keri Phebus and Tian Fangran. In this episode, Rance takes us on an inspiring journey, recounting his early coaching days, sharing cherished moments rooming with our co-host Terry Davis, and paying heartfelt homage to his late parents, who served as his unwavering pillars of support and inspiration.
Listeners are treated to Rance's personal narrative, from his formative years growing up in Orange County, California, to his current influential role as the esteemed UCLA tennis coach. His insights offer a rare glimpse into the life of a passionate mentor and the trials and triumphs that have shaped his remarkable career.
Join us as Rance Brown unfolds his compelling story, intertwining personal anecdotes with professional milestones, providing a behind-the-scenes look at the making of a tennis coaching legend. Prepare to be inspired and enlightened by the wisdom and experiences shared by this titan of the tennis world.
"Alotta Racket" delivers an exclusive, in-depth conversation with Rance Brown, sure to leave you captivated, informed, and inspired by the journey of a true tennis visionary. Tune in, as this episode promises to be an absolute ace for all tennis enthusiasts!
Remember to like, share, and subscribe to Alotta Racket for more in-depth conversations with tennis stars, coaches, and enthusiasts!
📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alottaracket/
🎥 YouTube: https://youtube.com/@AlottaRacket?si=...
👍 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/alottaracket
🎧 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1I11gRQ...
📷 Tik tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@alottaracket
Our Proud Sponsor of this episode:
Champion Ford
701 West Coal Ave
Gallup NM 87301
(505) 722-6621
Roger Smith's Journey from the Bahamas to Beating a World #1 | Tennis.com Podcast
Former player and current coach Roger Smith joins the podcast for a wide-ranging conversation about his journey from the Bahamas to living his dream on the pro tour.
Smith details how he emerged from his small island with a tennis dream and explains how his college experience at Ohio State propelled him to high heights. He re-lives some of his favorite matches, such as his upset win over world #1 Ivan Lendl. And Smith explains why he was so drawn to coaching when he retired, and what his overarching message is to those he teaches.
You can listen to this episode on all of your favorite podcast platforms by clicking on this link: https://link.chtbl.com/-hrzhRs4?sid=YT
Click HERE to subscribe
INSIDE THE BASELINE OF TENNIS DANIELLE LAO
🎾 Inside the Baseline with Danielle “THE LITLE GIANT” Lao: On this riveting episode of Alotta Racket, join Coach Roger 'Slinger' Smith, Victor 'Troy' Collins, Terry 'T-dawg' Davis, and Errol 'Ez' Smith as they uncover the illustrious tennis journey of Danielle Lao. 🌟 From her nascent tennis days to WTA triumphs, Danielle's tale is one of determination and talent. Revel in her college accolades at USC, her ITF victories, and the special mentorship she shares with our very own Coach Roger. 📘 Dive into insights from her co-authored book, 'The Invaluable Experience'. And as the conversation serves, brace yourselves: our hosts engage in a spirited debate on the financial aspects of tennis aspirations. An episode that's truly an ace, packed with passion, insights, and a whole lotta racket!
Remember to like, share, and subscribe to Alotta Racket for more in-depth conversations with tennis stars, coaches, and enthusiasts!
📸 Instagram: (https://www.instagram.com/alottaracket/)
🎥 YouTube: (https://youtube.com/@AlottaRacket?si=...)
👍 Facebook: (https://www.facebook.com/alottaracket)
🎧 Spotify:(https://open.spotify.com/show/1I11gRQ...)
📷 Tik tok:(https://www.tiktok.com/@alottaracket )
The life journey of 5-time NCAA Champion Coach- Peter Smith
A'lotta Racket Episode 4:
The Tennis Trojan - Coach Peter Smith In this week’s riveting episode of the A'lotta Racket Podcast, join our hosts Coaches Roger"Slinger" Smith, “Victory” Troy Collins, Terry "T-Dawg" Davis, and Errol "Ez" Smith III as they dive deep into the life and legacy of Coach Peter Smith - undeniably one of the most decorated college tennis coaches in recent history.
🎾 Highlights Include:
* An impressive 17-year tenure at USC, leading the Trojans to 5 NCAA Championships. Four of which were straight titles from 2009-2012!
* Recognition as a 2-time ITA National Coach of the Year and 5-time PAC-12 Coach of the Year.
* Making history as the ONLY men’s tennis coach to elevate four different men’s programs to national top-25 rankings.
* Steering three schools (USC, Pepperdine, and Fresno State) to both NCAA quarterfinals and top-5 national rankings - a feat only one other coach has achieved.
But it's not all about the titles and trophies. Hailing from Long Beach, Peter reminisces about his time on the ATP tour, delving into nostalgic matches played with and against our host. And for those who aspire to greatness, whether on the court or off, Peter shares invaluable advice for budding tennis players, coaches, and anyone aiming for success. Tune in for an episode jam-packed with insights, anecdotes, and a lot of racket! 🎙🎾
Remember to like, share, and subscribe to Alotta Racket for more in-depth conversations with tennis stars, coaches, and enthusiasts!
📸 Instagram: (https://www.instagram.com/alottaracket/)
🎥 YouTube: (https://youtube.com/@AlottaRacket?si=...)
👍 Facebook: (https://www.facebook.com/alottaracket)
🎧 Spotify:(https://open.spotify.com/show/1I11gRQ...)
Who is 2023 NCAA SINGLES TENNIS CHAMPION - TIAN FANGRAN?
The Story Told Here:
Join our hosts Roger "Slinger" Smith, Victor "Troy" Collins, Terry "T-Dawg" Davis, and Errol "Ez" Smith III as they dive deep into the life and journey of Tian Fangran, this year's NCAA singles champion. From the heart of Beijing, China and now making waves in UCLA, Tian has a story that will inspire every tennis enthusiast.
🎾 In this episode, you'll discover: - Tian's earliest memories on the tennis courts in China.
- The cultural and athletic transition from China to collegiate tennis at UCLA.
-Her experiences training under renowned coaches Rance Brown and Stella Sampras with the UCLA Women's tennis team.
-The pivotal role coach Errol "Ez" Smith III played in assisting Tian into this year's NCAA singles champion.
-Hilarious and heartwarming tales from this season that will give you a behind-the-scenes look at the making of a champion.
Alotta Racket Podcast Hosts and Guest: Coaches “Victory” Troy Collins, Roger “Slinger” Smith, Champion Tian Fangran, Errol “Eezie” Smith and Terry “T-Dawg” Davis
Special thanks to our sponsor for this episode, Brittney Hinds Realty. [Click here for more information about Brittney Hinds Realty and how she can assist with your realty needs.] (https://www.brittneyhinds.com)
Remember to like, share, and subscribe to Alotta Racket for more in-depth conversations with tennis stars, coaches, and enthusiasts!
📸 Instagram: (https://www.instagram.com/alottaracket/)
🎥 YouTube: (https://youtube.com/@AlottaRacket?si=...)
👍 Facebook: (https://www.facebook.com/alottaracket)
🎧 Spotify:(https://open.spotify.com/show/1I11gRQ...)
FROM THE COURTS TO THE COURT
Dive into the latest episode of the A'Lotta Racket Podcast, where legends and rackets converge. We're unveiling a side of Freeway Rick Ross that's never been seen. Before the infamy, before the incarceration, Ross was just another kid at Dorsey High School, serving up dreams on the tennis court. Join our hosts - Coaches Roger "Slinger" Smith, Errol "Ez" Smith, Terry "T-dawg" Davis, and Victor "Troy" Collins - as they sit down with the man himself. Experience an intimate conversation revealing Ross’s little-known early tennis days, with exclusive insights that paint a picture vastly different from his known persona. Reunited with his childhood friend, Troy, this episode promises anecdotes, reflections, revelations, and laughs. But it's not all about the past. Ross delves into the transformative power of hope, echoing Lotta Racket's ethos. From pivotal life decisions to the echoes of a tennis ball, discover how one can find redemption and direction, no matter the journey's twists and turns. Subscribe, like, and share this powerful dialogue, because every serve and story has the potential to inspire. 🎾✨🎤
As the host of Alotta Racket Podcast, it brings me great pleasure to have interviewed Freeway Rick Ross. This episode means a lot to me personally because of the untold stories only heard here as well as “the hope” that millions will receive from this insightful conversation. It was an extreme honor and I know that you all will enjoy this week’s episode as much as we did in our studio.
THE LEGENDARY “FREEWAY” RICK ROSS WITH ALOTTA RACKET PODCAST HOSTS
Please Comment, Like or Share?
Unveiling the Champion's Journey: Episode 1, Part 2 – Inside the Tennis Careers, Achievements, and Life Lessons
Inside Episode 1, Part 2:
In this second installment of our series, we continue to unravel our tennis journeys in the sport. Join us as we explore our primary purposes, achievements, and the profound life lessons that we’ve gathered along the way.
1. Primary Purpose:
Discover what drove us to pick up a racquet and step onto the court. Explore the passion, dedication, and unwavering commitment that propelled us towards greatness. Whether we dreamed of Grand Slam victories or simply fell in love with the game, our stories will inspire and motivate you.
2. Remarkable Achievements:
Get ready to be amazed by our incredible accomplishments as tennis players and coaches. From lifting prestigious trophies to setting records, our journey through the world of tennis is a testament to hard work, perseverance, and the pursuit of excellence.
3. Valuable Life Lessons:
Tennis is not just about winning matches; it's about embracing the challenges, learning from all aspects of defeats, and using the sport as a platform for personal growth. As featured podcast hosts we share our invaluable life lessons that we’ve gained through our careers, including resilience, discipline, and the importance of a strong work ethic.
Why You Should Tune In:
Gain insights from the best in the tennis world.
Be inspired to pursue your tennis dreams with renewed vigor.
Learn life lessons that extend far beyond the court.
Connect with a community of tennis players, parents and coaches who share your passion.
Conclusion:
Episode 1, Part 2 of our series promises to be an enlightening and captivating exploration of what it takes to become a tennis champion. Whether you're a player looking to up your game, a coach seeking inspiration, or simply a tennis parent and enthusiast, this episode is a must-watch.
Stay tuned to Alotta Racket Podcast for more exciting content that delves into the heart of tennis excellence. Our network is here to support you on your journey to becoming the best tennis player, coach, parent or fan you can be. Together, we'll continue to build champions, both on and off the court.
Please Comment, Like or Share?
Premiere of My Podcast: ALOTTA RACKET
A’lotta Racket is a compelling podcast that features myself, a retired tennis professional player and renowned touring coach, along with acclaimed coaches and sports personalities Victor Troy Collins, Terry Davis, and my son coach/player Errol Smith.
Join us as we share our wealth of experience and expertise from the ATP and WTA Tour, college tennis and beyond, while bringing on acclaimed guests and experts in the sports and entertainment world to discuss what it takes to create a sports champion both on and off the court.
However, our mission does go beyond sports! It aims to inspire and empower our listeners with diverse set of topics that will appeal to a broad audience including aspiring athletes, sports enthusiasts, individuals interested in personal development, and anyone seeking inspiration and guidance.
We make A’lotta Racket Podcast fun and exciting, while educational. This blend of entertainment and learning can engage anyone from sports enthusiasts to those seeking personal development.
Our overarching goal is to connect with someone, somewhere out there and provide them with hope, strength, confidence, and some options of direction to achieve success in sports and life.
WATCH THE FIRST EPISODE HERE
Pete Brown Junior Tennis Program’s Response to Coach Slinger’s 3 Day Visit
Andrew Mawire (Head Tennis Coach), Marty Woods (Chairman & CEO at Pete Brown Junior Tennis Program), Coach Roger “Slinger” Smith, James Shapiro (Tennis Strength, Conditioning &Sports Performance Coach)
I am thrilled to share my testimonial about Coach Roger "Slinger" Smith's remarkable 3-day consulting visit to the Pete Brown Jr Tennis Program at Harvard Park Tennis Center in LA. This transformative event left an indelible mark on the participating Jr Tennis players, profoundly enhancing their understanding of the game and their personal growth.
Coach Slinger's expertise and dedication were evident from the moment he stepped onto the court. His unique approach went beyond technical skills, diving deep into the mental and psychological aspects of tennis. Throughout the three days, Coach Roger “Slinger” Smith guided our young athletes on a journey of self-discovery, helping them identify their purpose both on and off the court.
The impact of Coach Slinger's coaching style was astonishing. He skillfully connected with each player, creating an environment of trust and open communication. This allowed the players to explore their strengths and weaknesses without fear, leading to remarkable breakthroughs in their game. The focus on the mental aspects of tennis was particularly enlightening, helping our players gain a competitive edge by sharpening their mental resilience, focus, and strategic thinking.
As a result of Coach Slinger's visit, our Jr Tennis players have not only become better athletes but also more well-rounded individuals. The insights gained during those three days have extended far beyond the tennis court, helping them navigate challenges and opportunities in all facets of life. Their newfound confidence, self-awareness, and determination are a testament to the profound impact of Coach Slinger's guidance.
In summary, Coach Roger "Slinger" Smith's 3-day consulting visit to the Pete Brown Jr Tennis Program was an absolute game-changer. The emphasis on purpose, mental fortitude, and holistic growth has elevated our players to new heights. We are immensely grateful for Coach Slinger's expertise, passion, and commitment to nurturing both exceptional athletes and outstanding individuals. Without a doubt, this experience will continue to resonate positively in the lives of our young athletes for years to come.
Marty Woods
Chairman & CEO at Pete Brown Junior Tennis Program
The Identity Obstacles in Junior and Professional Tennis
Tennis, an intricate sport that demands physical prowess and mental fortitude, poses numerous challenges for both junior and professional players alike. One of the most significant hurdles faced by aspiring tennis players is the lack of understanding or awareness of their identity as athletes. In this blog, we explore how the absence of player identity can impede progress and growth in tennis and how embracing one's true self can lead to success.
Serena Williams
“As a Black tennis player, I looked different. I sounded different. I dressed differently. I served differently. But when I stepped onto the court, I could compete with anyone
The Core of Player Identity:
Player identity revolves around two crucial aspects: understanding one's game style and, perhaps more importantly, comprehending who they are as individuals, including what drives them as well as how to connect that drive to compete at Ideal Performance State (IPS). A comprehensive understanding of these elements is essential for any player, especially those transitioning into the professional realm.
1. Game Style & Player Identity
For junior players, finding their optimal game style and Player Identity is an ongoing process. Some players might be naturally aggressive, favoring a hard-hitting, attacking style, while others might thrive on defensive or counter punching play and strategic placement with relying on strength and endurance. Developing one's game style requires physical time, practice, and at times experimentation, however recognition of this can be truly shortened with the use of a scientific method introduced in recent years (Brain typing)
Stressed out? Trouble getting into the flow? Understanding your brain type may provide the roadmap needed to overcome these barriers and reach your fullest potential. Daniel Amen
2. Primary Purpose
Beyond one's personal identity, understanding how to ignite that drive to push that game style plays a fundamental role in a player's journey. This includes recognizing their passions, motivations, and what fuels their competitive fire. Some players may excel under pressure, thriving in intense situations, while others might find solace in consistency and steady progress. This is due to their connection to Primary Purpose.
click on link to read Dr. Stan Kovich The Importance of Passion & Purpose for Sport Success
The Significance of Brain Type and Primary Purpose:
Understanding one's "brain type" is vital in shaping a player's identity. Some individuals are instinctive, trusting their gut and intuition during high-pressure moments. Others may be analytical, relying on detailed strategies and data to make decisions on the court.
Moreover, identifying the primary purpose for playing tennis is a game-changer. Some players pursue tennis for the sheer love of the sport, while others are motivated by the desire for fame, financial rewards, or to honor their family's legacy. Knowing their true purpose helps athletes stay focused and driven throughout their careers.
The Journey to Champion's Identity and Primary Purpose:
Becoming a champion isn't just about innate talent; it's a journey of self-discovery and development. Champions are not born with all the necessary information; they learn, adapt, and grow as they progress through their careers.
1. Early Development
Junior players who start early in understanding their identity have a significant advantage. This self-awareness allows them to make informed decisions about their training, coaches, and tournament schedules. The earlier they grasp their strengths and limitations, the more time they have to refine their game and mental approach.
2. Embracing the Process
The path to embracing one's player identity is not always easy. It requires self-reflection, feedback from coaches, and the courage to be true to oneself. It's essential to be patient with this process, as it can be a rollercoaster ride of successes and setbacks. With the connection of their primary purpose, it keeps them motivated and fired up through the many ups and downs. It keeps them going!
In Conclusion:
The journey to success in junior and professional tennis is riddled with challenges, and one of the most critical obstacles is a player's lack of understanding or recognition of their identity. Discovering their game style, brain type, and primary purpose for playing can unlock their full potential as athletes. Champions stand out not only for their exceptional skills but also for their profound understanding of themselves. Aspiring tennis players should strive to connect with their inner selves early in their careers to pave the way for a brighter and more fulfilling future on the court.
The one kicker here that must be mentioned is that it takes the understanding, patience, collaboration and positive reinforcements from the whole support team.
Upcoming Event with the Pete Brown Junior Tennis Program
As I’m embarking on providing an additional service of being a tennis consultant, I’m excited to visit the Pete Brown Junior Tennis Program for a second time. It represents a unique opportunity to build upon previous experiences, explore new possibilities, and strengthen the bonds formed with the program's players. The return visit allows me to witness the fruits of their labor, reaffirming their commitment to the sport and their role in shaping its future. In this cycle of growth and collaboration, we serve to forge a powerful alliance that paves the way for even greater achievements.
I’d love to visit your program or help directly with a coach and/or player. Let’s connect!
Thank You,
Coach Slinger
Unique Brain—Teach Me the Way I learn!
Ever wonder why certain players accel at such faster rates than other players? Or even how some players grasp information so quickly while others don’t? The answer is very simple….”their brain”!
Ever wonder why certain players accel at such faster rates than other players? Or even how some players grasp information so quickly while others don’t? The answer is very simple….”their brain”!
Everyone’s brain is different and each person needs their own personalized learning. Uniqueness of the Brain may affect us both as a learner and as a teacher. As a result there is no one size fits all approach nor is there a single recipe for learning.
Studies show that the Best strategies for learning will not only vary between individuals but may even vary within the individual.
You see, the brain is constantly active, even when you’re not doing anything, and every time you learn a new skill you change your brain. In fact all behaviors that a person engages in, positive or negative, are very important as each behavior changes the brain!
Constant Brain Waves
What’s critical to note is while the primary driver of change in the brain is BEHAVIOR, nothing is more effective to learning than PRACTICE! In fact, the more difficulty and struggle that one takes on during practice leads to greater structural change in the brain making way for increased learning.
Please take a minute and click on this link by renowned Neurologist and Brain Researcher Dr.Lara Boyd https://youtu.be/LNHBMFCzznE to Get a more insightful and in depth scientific explanation of how the brain relates to learning.
Dr. Lara Boyd’s studies show that there are three different ways in which the brain changes to support how we learn :
Chemical Change where the brain functions by transferring chemical signals between the brain cells call neurons (this supports short term learning
2 Structural Change is a physical change of the connections between neurons in the brain (this supports long term learning)
3. Lastly a change to support learning whereby altering the brain’s function. As you use certain regions of the brain to learn something that area becomes more and more excitable and easy to use again. During this process the brain shifts how and when they are activated and enlargens. This describes why certain individuals can strive in different areas of life (languages, traditional learning, music, sports and so on).
We’ve all been told as coaches that it takes 10,000 hours to master a motor skill. However, as some of us have experienced, we all need to know that some may take longer and others may take far less.
In Conclusion:
Everyone that reads this blog will not be the same as they were before they’ve read this. Each person’s brain would have changed.
Understand that everything our players do, encounter and experience will change and affect their brains. This can be for the better but can also be for the worse.
Let’s take the time to learn how each of our athletes learn best and incorporate those specific strategies that relate to each individual.
Finally, let’s practice specifically what each brain requires for greater growth (learning) with more difficulty, struggles, but also with positivity.
Let’s Go Build the brain that our players crave and need for growth and success!!
No Team… Less Chance-Recognize!
On the professional tennis tour the majority of players have a team around them (coach, tennis trainer, partner, friends)
Importance of Team in Tennis
On the professional tennis tour the majority of players have built a support team (A coach, physical trainer, an agent or manager, partner, friends) while others have a close group of players they rely on for encouragement, a laugh, support and above all tennis results.
These players all understand the extreme importance for them to have this "team" dynamic. They not only rely on the team for feedback, motivation, and support, but have learned how equally important it is to also be able to help and support others themselves. This brings them satisfaction and a feeling that they are in alignment of obtaining their personal goals.
Your team should consist of people that you need to spend time with, listen to, communicate with, and respect. As they believe in you, you too should believe in them, it is a two-way street.
Successful professional athletes understand that team is more important than any individual member, so that is why they rarely put their own ego before the team’s wellbeing. Many times what is going on between the team is more important than the player’s actual skills.
Nick Bollieterri (one of the sport's greatest coaches and pioneer of tennis academies) states:
“In sports, teamwork is essential to achieving a victory as it requires the effort of every member on the team. While tennis seems to be quite an individual sport, there are many team dynamics in the background to help tennis players achieve success!” Nick Bollettieri (2017) also explained that even though the end result might be credited to a single individual, the teamwork behind the player is the key to success.
Teamwork requires training, practice and trust
As all member depends on the performance of each other, trust and belief is a critical element to the success of the group. This means Every Single Time and each time with 100% effort and focus is not only expected but demanded from all members.
Imagine a player thinking that his/her coach had a bad night or had too much wine with dinner the previous evening. This doubt might be the cause of a disastrous performance!
Player and Coach
A player and coach needs to respect each other enough to communicate effectively and speak openly about progress, goals, tennis results, and what’s needed for improvements.
Rafa Nadal on his team being free to communicate
“There is only one way to work – to respect each other and to have a very good personal relationship. It’s more than a work relationship. For me personally it’s something even more important than tennis. I like my team in a human way – in a professional way too of course – and I feel comfortable like this. I always like to have long-term relationships. It’s the same with my sponsors, with my friends and with my team. I feel happy like this. When I’m at the tournaments I feel like I’m with my family. For me it works well. For other people it’s different, but that’s how I like it.”
“The important thing is to have a group of people around you who feel free enough to tell you if you are doing things right or not,” Nadal said. “When you are often changing people around you it’s difficult to find this confidence.”
I’ve never fired anyone, I don’t think any coach that I have had in my career has ever been afraid of telling me the truth or being honest with me because he feared for his job.”
How does teamwork improve quality?
Teamwork helps everyone to communicate more effectively and more often in real-time thus minimizing friction and delays.
Having the right people around you is a blessing and will enable you to reach for great heights because you know that they have your back and you have theirs. This boosts confidence, belief and makes for more fun in the whole process.
Every team member has their own set of skills and strengths, but when the whole team works as a unit, everyone has an opportunity to learn from each other. This process leads stronger building that allows for the team to become better equipped to deal with all challenges. Teamwork can improve efficiency and productivity.
So here are the key reasons teamwork is so important.
Efficient work
Self-monitoring
Innovate faster
Learn from each other
Creates healthy competition
Promotes strong working relationships
5 benefits of teamwork
Give employees a sense of ownership
Build on the strengths of each team member
Build trust within teams
Take the opportunity to co-create and innovate
Share knowledge and skills
What makes an effective team and why?
For a team to be truly effective, all members must unite with the same vision and be motivated to bring that vision to life. They must share clear, measurable goals, and be committed to each person playing their part in the overall success of the group.
Serena Williams on surrounding herself with a strong team
Arguably the greatest female athlete and tennis player of all time, believes that being surrounded by a good and strong group of people was one of the keys to her astonishing success. "How it's important to have a really good team around you, and how you can have a good career if you have a good team around you and how you can have a different career if you have a bad team around you.”
Growing up I wasn’t the richest, but I had a rich family in spirit
Serena further declares that when she sets a mission statement at the start of each season, how important it is for each team member to clearly understand that mission statement in order to make life easier for everyone. Every decision going forward is made in alignment with her mission statement.
Avoid Danger when not connected to Primary Purpose-Here’s How!
Connecting Primary Purpose in sports: I always encourage and assist my players in finding their primary purpose and connecting it to their sport…..
Connecting Primary Purpose in sports:
When I team up with an aspiring world class professional tennis player/athlete, I always encourage and assist my players in finding their primary purpose and connecting it to their sport.
Distinguish Primary Purpose:
It is very important for athletes to understand that a primary purpose is different than a secondary purpose.
Defining primary Purpose:
An athlete’s primary purpose is an ACTION, that they have complete control of, connected to their deepest value(s) of playing that sport.
Example of an athlete’s Primary Purpose:
For some athletes, like myself, it may be about the goal of using our sport as a vehicle to teach/show others in our small hometown that there are no limitations in aspiring for something bigger than our town had to offer.
Quality of athlete’s actions:
It was about the quality of our actions that was always present, in whatever we did, that played a key role on our journey towards the fulfillment of our secondary purpose (end result).
How to Show quality actions:
Primary purpose is in an athlete’s state of consciousness. It allows for our principal, fundamental, predominant or independent objective in which we commit to something (our fight, our effort, our composure, our character, our style of play, our work ethic, etc..)
Defining Secondary Purpose:
An athlete’s secondary purpose, while a great motivator, is anything that an athlete desires to do or achieve but actually does not have complete control of. It is a PURPOSE CONCERNING CONTENT.
Athletes common confliction with connecting purpose:
Most, if not all, of the athletes that I start out coaching are frequently conflicted with their connection of primary purpose. They usually describe their secondary purpose, the end state, when I ask the question.
Danger when conflicted with purpose:
The danger of having a secondary purpose as a primary purpose makes it very, very difficult to achieve goals because secondary purposes are not in their complete control (Their ultimate ranking goals, their personal number of titles won and achievements, their desired financial goals and competitive earnings, their worldwide fame or any other other personal sporting results, etc..).
Consequences with conflicted purpose:
Athletes that do this usually end up feeling like under achievers to failures and become very disheartened and thus label themselves unsuccessful athletes.
Aligning passion with your Primary Purpose:
During the journey with my athletes I also stress the extreme importance of understanding and aligning their passion with their primary purpose!
Example of passion with alignment to Primary Purpose:
When I played I had to align my passion to playing the game of tennis with how I wanted to be seen as a competitor or person of character with my primary purpose (mentioned above).
Consequences when passion is not in alignment:
If not in alignment my passion would have dwindled due to my shortfall of direction. The risk of chaos in a player’s journey (disorganization, vulnerability, frustration, no confidence, etc..) can lead to a complete melt down.
Results when alignment is off:
normally results in loss of hope.
Another example when not in alignment:
Passion is like (the icing) and primary purpose as (the cake). Without the cake the icing will run all over the place with no substance to it. You can only eat so much icing before you start to feel sick.
Danger when not connected to Primary Purpose:
In summary and as mentioned throughout, now you can see why it is so important for an athlete to connect with their primary purpose and the danger when it’s not.
Top athletes master this connection:
I truly believe especially now as a coach that all top contenders of their sport have learned, completely understand and have clearly made this connection through their successful careers.
Endure, sustain and have fun when connected:
Again, connecting my players primary purpose gives them endurance to sustain great competitiveness through the ups and downs of the many challenges that comes within their sport. It even makes for much more fun when competing!
Note: An athlete can have more than one purpose. In fact in many cases the more the better pending on specific individual goals. Listed below are four purpose:
1. Prosocial Purpose pertains to an athlete wanting to help others, influence the societal structure or even increasing their happiness.
2. Creative Purpose pertains to an athlete’s artistic goals and their propensity for originality.
3. Financial Purpose pertains to an athlete’s financial well-being and competitive success.
4. Personal Recognition Purpose pertains to their desire for recognition and respect from colleagues.