NEWS (local): 3rd Annual Tennis Family Fun Day 2014 in Gloucester Twp.

3rd Annual

(Rain Date: June 22nd)

Come join us for the 3rd Annual QuickStart Tennis Family Fun Day

Held on the courts in beautiful Gloucester Twp. Community Park in Sicklerville, NJ, 

this FREE event showcases the QuickStart Tennis programs offered by 

Gloucester Twp. Recreation and Gotta Play Tennis Kids™.

No tennis experience is required.

All equipment is provided.

RACQUET GIVEAWAY

Enter the FREE drawing for a Jr. Tennis racquet.

(winner will be chosen at random and informed by email)

Prize racquet can be picked up at:

 Gloucester Twp. Recreation

80 Broadacres Drive, Clementon, NJ

NEWS: Kid-sized Tennis Courts in Gloucester Twp. are FIRST in South Jersey

Have you ever seen a lower basketball rim to accommodate small children? How about a smaller soccer field with little nets? Kids need their sports to be kid-sized. So why have tennis courts continued to be adult-sized for so many years? 

Thanks to the cooperation of Gloucester Twp. Public Works and Recreation Departments, along with initiatives from the USTA Middle States, Ron and Trish Miller of Gotta Play Tennis™ and Gotta Play Tennis Kids™ have been successful in creating kid-sized tennis courts through the use of blended lines. Now at Gloucester Twp. Community Park, at the corner of Peter Cheeseman and Hickstown Roads in Sicklerville, NJ, the four existing adult tennis courts–referred to as 78 foot courts as measured in length–have been retrofit with alternate-color thinner lines that break up the courts into either 36 foot or 60 foot lengths. According to Ben Zislis, Associate Executive Director of the USTA Middle States, “these are the FIRST blended-lines courts in a public facility that we are aware of in Southern New Jersey.” 

Smaller children ages 5-8 find quicker success using slower red-felt balls and portable lower nets on a court now designed for THEM as the the dimensions are only 36 foot long by 18 foot wide. Kids aged 9-10 can use the the additional 60 foot by 21 foot courts created by the new lines along with the existing nets and a lower-bouncing orange-felt ball. Shorter racquets sized to each child, along will all other equipment, are provided in all the Gloucester Twp. Recreation tennis programs. In a promotional USTA video, Patrick McEnroe, General Manager of Player Development said, “when the game fits, skills come faster, easier, and most importantly the kids have a lot more fun.” Even first lady Michelle Obama has endorsed the changes in youth tennis as a part of her “Let’s Move” initiative to give America a healthier generation of kids.

For information on upcoming programs, contact Gloucester Twp. Recreation at 856-435-5734.

EPISODE 101 (Podcast): Look to the children for fresh tennis insight

Children and tennis—Perfect together. But let us not forget that skills for this challenging sport do not just fall out of the sky and land on the unsuspecting child. Hard work, dedication and fun will, as usual, provide the best results. And the children will lead us...

Subscribe in iTunes:

http://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/gotta-play-tennis/id310096949

Spring/Summer session dates announced for Gloucester Twp. youth QuickStart Tennis programs

SPRING

April 26 - May 31 (6 weeks)

Rain Date: June 14

AGES: 5-7 program

Time: 9:00 - 10:10AM

AGES: 8-10 program

Time: 10:15 - 11:25AM

SUMMER

June 28 - August 9 (6 weeks)

Rain Date: August 16

AGES: 5-7 program

Time: 8:45 - 9:55AM

AGES: 8-10 program

Time: 10:00 - 11:10AM

Above program time slots assumes minimum registration for each program. Programs (age groups) may be combined to accommodate low registration and time slots will be adjusted.

LOCATION: Gloucester Twp. Community Park

Peter Cheeseman Rd & Hickstown Rd, Sicklerville, NJ

What is QuickStart Tennis?

A tennis system designed to encourage the love of TENNIS - and help develop skills in young children — by bringing the sport down to their size.

All equipment provided • 7 hours of fun and learning • 2nd student discount available

—

REGISTRATION

Begins April 7 (residents)

One-week later for non-residents

—

Hours:

Monday-Thursday 8:00AM—5:45PM 

Extended evening hours on Tuesdays & Thursdays until 7:30pm

80 Broadacres Drive, Clementon, NJ

(Next to the Cherrywood development)

Call 856-435-5734

—

Click this link for the Gloucester Twp. Recreation site

Parent Feedback

"Ron's knowledge and passion for tennis was infectious."

"Great class! My son learned a lot and looked forward to the classes."

"The class was well run and did a good job of combining tennis disciplines with fun."

Click this link for more parent feedback

FAVORITE SITES: Timeless Tennis by Gary Bala

Published: Saturday, February 22, 2014
Tennis Quote of the Day: Accepting Tennis Mistakes

Why then do we react so negatively to our simple unforced errors? Why do most of us assume that the better players we become, the less mistakes we make?

Coach Mencinger suggests that...read more

NEWS: Teams-a-plenty in tennis both at home and abroad

The Davis Cup

Although tennis may be simply a seasonal sport to some, matches and tournaments take place in professional tennis almost non-stop all over the globe. After all, there is always nice outdoor weather in some location, on any day in the calendar, around the world. The only time of year that racquets have a chance to breathe a sigh of relief from those named Nadal, Federer, Murray and others is during the holiday season. The ATP World Tour Finals played in London ends around mid-November, and the ATP men’s tour picks up again with tournaments in Brisbane, Doha and Chennai at the end of December. But all these aforementioned events focus on the individual efforts of each player who essentially represent only themselves and perhaps their tight-knit group of coaches, physios, and trainers.

Then we reach the end of January and run into the premier international team event in men’s tennis called Davis Cup. For the uninitiated, the International Tennis Federation (ITF) runs this annual contest between teams from competing countries. Beginning in 1900 as a challenge between Great Britain and the United States, 2013 showed 130 nations in-the-running for this prestigious trophy. And you thought the Olympics were the only international venue for representing one’s country in competition?

Each elimination round known as a “tie” consists of 5 “rubbers” or matches. These are played in 3 days and usually on a Friday, Saturday, and Sunday schedule. The winner of the tie is the nation which wins 3 or more of the 5 rubber. On the first day, the initial 2 rubbers are singles which are usually played by each nation's 2 best available singles players. On the second day, the doubles rubber is played. On the third day, the final 2 rubbers are typically reverse singles, in which the first-day contestants usually play again but swap opponents from the first day's singles rubbers.

Playing in sport for one’s country is an honor for the few players given the opportunity as the teams are as small as 4 players. Even though each brings their own element of talent and skill to the matches, it is still the team effort that prevails. This concept of individuals competing for the overall benefit for the team is not such a foreign concept in tennis as many might imagine. All across the country, high schools and colleges have tennis teams who train together, strategize together, celebrate together in victory and console each other in defeat. Tennis for these individuals is a team sport not much different than any other. The squads may be smaller, and the one-on-one or two-on-two format may not mirror the volume of kids on the soccer, baseball, or football fields. But at the end of the day, teams win or lose as a team with each member doing their best for the common goal. Even nationally we have the format known as World Team Tennis, a co-ed professional league played with a team format all across the United States. Our local team is the Philadelphia Freedoms for whom a song was written and performed by the Bernie Taupin-Elton John pairing as a favor for then tennis-star Billie Jean King who headlined the team in the 70s. Give yourself a high-five if you knew we had a tennis team to stand behind and pull for just like the Flyers, Eagles and Phillies.

As we look again internationally at the great first round matchups in Davis Cup competition with last year’s winner the Czech Republic vs. the Netherlands, Japan vs. Canada, Germany vs. Spain, France vs. Australia, Argentina vs. Italy, Kazakhstan vs. Belgium, Serbia vs. Switzerland, and our own USA vs. Great Britain, I hope that parents of young children remember that tennis can be both an individual and team sport when seeking an athletic activity in which to involve their children. It is the sport that can last them a lifetime. But perhaps even more relevant is the fact that parents and kids can play tennis together on public tennis courts needing very little equipment. It provides healthy, fun and inexpensive entertainment for the entire family who can perhaps even divide into teams. Just a word of advice to dads: moms team should always win.

EPISODE 100 (Podcast): When I do 3, the winner is ME!

Welcome to Episode 100 of the Gotta Play Tennis Podcast. I went round and round about what this episode should be since it is, for me, quite a milestone. When I began this podcast in 2009, I never dreamed of how many episodes this could become. But I underestimated my own growth as a player, observer, instructor, and fan of the game. Therefore, this podcast holds to my original mission of providing "quick ideas to help improve your enjoyment of the game."

We will discuss the power of three, or put another way, the three basic ingredients for success of any player, at any level, on the court. As usual, I will take a macro look (from tree-top level) at what we should consider in our own games. And we will finish up with the power of 3 in the spectacular performance of Stan Wawrinka at the 2014 Australian Open.

Subscribe in iTunes:

http://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/gotta-play-tennis/id310096949

REFLECTIONS: The 12 Do's and Don'ts of a Tennis Player

The United States Tennis Association has a rating system for determining the level a tennis player has achieved. In episode 28 of my Gotta Play Tennis podcast, “Rating your Skills by USTA Standards” (available on iTunes), I relayed their approach to evaluating the level of a tennis player. Competition results however don't really measure, in my estimation, the true person who takes the court. Some things are obvious, and some not so much. Therefore, here is my personal representation of a tennis player based upon the principles of do’s and don’ts. Why 12 points? We in the U.S. seem to like this number as we commonly measure things by the dozen. Besides, this was written between December 25th and January 5th for which, on the Christian Calendar, is known as the 12 Days of Christmas.

The 12 Do's and Don’ts of a Tennis Player (in no particular order)

1. Do be ready, willing, and able to deal with uncomfortable weather conditions, either hot or cold, windy or calm, and sunny or overcast on public or private outdoor tennis courts. Dogs barking, kids yelling, and helicopters flying are all a reality.
2. Do have a realization that tennis is hard work requiring almost constant movement and even more visual awareness. If resting is your thing, tennis is not for you.
3. Do understand that tennis is a leg sport, and as such, requires one to develop strong leg muscles that can assist in durability on the court in long rallies and longevity for the unknown length of a tennis match. Regular stretching is a must to protect from injury.
4. Do take comfort in the ideal that tennis is only a game, and unless it is your livelihood, should be viewed as a fun and entertaining sport that provides exercise, camaraderie, and personal achievement.
5. Do be accepting of all ability levels, both as partners and opponents, as they too are in their own time line of skill and athleticism.
6. Don't be stubborn about shot selection. Use the most reliable shot in your arsenal. When you are in danger of losing the rally or point, do not forget that the forehand is the most biomechanically efficient shot for humans to hit.
7. Do be studious by learning all you can about the sport you love—historically, tactically, and strategically—so that all will feed your overall ability as a player. Be patient with your own growth. Invest in some lessons from a qualified instructor.
8. Don't purposely hit shots closer to the lines than 1-2 feet and not with any more pace than necessary. Consistency and not sensationalism wins the day. Going for more or less than required in a given situation is a losing recipe.
9. Don't beat yourself by letting your aggravation from bad on-court decisions or poor shot execution predict your outcome. Embrace the ups and downs. Live in the present—the ball you are hitting—and not in the past.
10. Do be a good sport when either winning or losing a match or a rally. Applaud quality shots by your opponent. Be fair with all line calls. Give credit where credit is due and congratulate the victor or refrain from gloating over your own win.
11. Don't lose your focus from shot-to-shot during a rally and always be totally aware of the things that affect your positioning such as spin, depth, direction, and height of the oncoming ball.
12. Don't let others who worship at the national altar of football, baseball, basketball, and ice hockey ruin your love and respect of the international sport of tennis. One man’s trash is another man’s treasure. Feel good about the fact that you actually “play” your sport and can do so hopefully for a lifetime.

When I began this piece, I wondered how I would find at least 12 things to add to the list. As I reached the bottom, I realized the number 15 had already been written and I felt like I was just hitting my stride. In other words, it is obviously difficult to sum up the measure of a tennis player in just 12 bullet points. With that said, if you truly absorb and take to heart the above principles, you surely are on your way to being a proud and accomplished tennis player.

HAPPY NEW YEAR to you and yours. May this be the year that tennis becomes all you want it to be in your life.

REFLECTIONS: How much belief have you developed in 2013?

It seems to be that time of year. "Reflections", as a topic, is almost cliché as we look back over the past days, weeks and months. Many racquets have been swung, lots of balls have been struck, and hour-upon-hour of relentless footsteps and even more unending sweat-droplets have filled the ticks of the clock. But to what end? Is this year of 2013 simply a continuation of the previous one? Has there been progress made? Do you stand as a better player than last year, or are you, like old Scrooge is quoted, a year older and not a penny richer? What do you believe is possible for you as a tennis player in 2014?

I CANNOT speak for your game, and I do hope you will take some time to reflect on what you've accomplished visiting the court over the last 300 plus days. I CAN speak for myself however, and that is exactly my intent in this post. As tennis years go, it has been a pretty good one for my own personal game. My knees, ankles, feet, wrists, elbows and back all seem to still be in working order. As the winter cold has all but put a halt to my outdoor play and instruction, my body finally gets some needed time to heal from the torturous wear and tear of hard courts in South Jersey public parks where I play and teach on courts built by low-bid contractors. My time as a tennis player or instructor is not very near and dear to their hearts, and as result, these slabs of green, white and red are torture chambers that attack every sinew and joint possible. There's a reason they call them "hard courts."

But no one forces me to push my body so relentlessly, tracking down every ball, bouncing off the fences, or diving on painted-over cement. It is the ongoing pursuit of making forward progress that fuels the insanity of such endeavors. I've been no stranger to both good and bad days on the court, and even the tennis royalty in the pro game have their moments. But attitude is everything, because without it, the tennis fire could be easily snuffed out as the years take their toll. For anyone who knows me or reads things I have posted or recorded, you know that my ladder of success is not placed against walls that lead to tournaments and trophies. Just having the ability to cover the court like a wild man, run as hard or harder than my decades-younger students, and stay healthy and uninjured, are all wins in my book. Also, the longevity of having survived on a court for now over 40 years should speak volumes until itself. It is something I am proud to admit along with my over 30 years of youth instruction.

Maybe the most I can take from last year is my continued belief, from the results I have witnessed, that I can still grow and learn and improve as a player and teacher. With my never-ending studies of the game I love—through reading, workshops, watching the pros, and throwing myself about the court—I have accomplished much in 2013. Maybe the small tweaks are not what anyone else would notice, nor will they elevate me to the next NTRP level or competitive bracket. I take solace in knowing them for myself, and their only visible sign may be the smile on my face or perhaps even an animated fist-pump after hitting the winning shot I know was not always possible in the past.

Thanks to the unceasing learning curve of this very physically and mentally challenging game, I have plenty more to work on in the new year. That being said, I believe that tennis skill will continue to grow in my life, not by leaps and bounds, but by small building blocks that continue to develop either physical or mental prowess. This is the gift that tennis brings to me this holiday season.

Believe in what your heart is saying

Hear the melody that's playing

There's no time to waste

There's so much to celebrate

Believe in what you feel inside

And give your dreams the wings to fly

You have everything you need

If you just believe

"Believe" is a 2004 song from the Christmas-themed performance capture film The Polar Express. The words and music were written by Glen Ballard and Alan Silvestri, and the song was performed by Josh Groban.

Happy Holidays to you and yours
from Gotta Play Tennis

NEW CONTENT OF NOTE: Give the Gift of Tennis this holiday season

(For residents of the South Jersey area only)

Why not give The Gift of TENNIS to a friend, family member or another loved-one on your holiday shopping list. This gift plants the seed of a lifetime sport. 

Purchase tennis lesson GIFT CERTIFICATES in denominations
of 3 or more lessons.

(price discount applies when purchased in 3-lesson bundle)

Lessons will begin (in Gloucester Twp.) in April 2014

SPECIAL OFFER:
Gift Certificates can be purchased at lower 2013 rates 
(limit 3-lesson bundle)

Contact Ron Miller at gottaplaytennis.ron@gmail.com
or 856-359-GPTS

LOCAL NEWS: Fall Tennis in Gloucester Twp.

Fall 2013 QuickStart Tennis
GottaPlayTennisKids COMPLETED for 2013

SEPTEMBER 28 - NOVEMBER 2 (6 weeks)

Rain Dates: Nov. 16 and 23

AGES: 5-10 program

Time: 10:15 - 11:25AM

LOCATION: Gloucester Twp. Community Park

What is QuickStart Tennis?

A tennis system designed to encourage the love of TENNIS - and help develop skills 

in young children — by bringing the sport down to their size.

All equipment provided • 7 hours of fun and learning • 2nd student discount available

REGISTRATION

80 Broadacres Drive, Clementon, NJ

(Next to the Cherrywood development)

Call 856-435-8734

Click this link for the Gloucester Twp. Recreation site

REFLECTIONS: Tryouts—cutting the dreams and potential of many kids?

Here's a concept for one to ponder–sports for little ones, and even teenagers, should be FUN! Isn't that really why kids beg mommy and daddy to pony-up the cash for all the equipment, registrations, and other countless miscellaneous charges associated with organized sports? The kids just want to have fun. Winning in a competitive environment can definitely deliver the goods. But even losing against a better team or competitor can be fun as well. It is all about presentation and what gets emphasized by the coaching staff, organization and parents. Learning, along with both skill and character building, take place from wins AND losses. As long as no one gets hurt, everyone who desires gets to play, all is done fairly, and someone or some team has a better day than another, then we will have winners and non-winners. The only LOSERS are those who perhaps desired to participate but did not even get the chance. This is where I begin to make my case for no-cut policies in sports. 

I am far from expert when it comes to most team-oriented mainstream sports and the way they handle thinning the pack. But what I do know is that many players try out for the high school tennis teams and only a select few make the cut. When counting the typical compliment of players selected, we see numbers 1, 2, and 3 singles and number 1 and 2 doubles as the most common varsity positions. Let's assume that the JV team has the same complement. Yet there are dozens of potential tennis players who are hungry for an activity they can enjoy with their friends, and yes even family, when the glow of high school sports has diminished. But for many, the flicker of participation is snuffed out before it even has a chance. Whatever happened to a time when sports were what you joined–not tried-out for–and provided the opportunity for anyone who burned with the desire to learn and grow from the experience the chance to do so?

I know it may be unrealistic to think that anyone that wants to catch a pass, score a goal, or hit an ace can, as Nike® likes to say, "Just Do It."  After all, reality clearly dictates the limitations of time as well as the inadequacies of restricted coaching staff, trainers and facilities. This kind of scarcity mentality however feeds on the fear that for some to have more others must have less. For example, when teams insist on giving their most talented players the majority of field time, others more athletically challenged sit the benches, wait, and hope for a chance to play and, dare we say it, have fun!

Getting back more specifically to tennis, it seems that the concept of no-cut is not all that radical after all. According to an April 15, 2013 news release from the National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS),  the United States Tennis Association (USTA) has registered more than 3,600 coaches who have implemented a no-cut initiative, affecting more than 130,000 high school students since the inception of the no-cut programs in 2006. The NFHS, the national leadership organization for high school athletic and performing arts programs, has partnered with the USTA with the goal of attracting new supporters of the no-cut policy through the 51 NFHS member state associations This includes more than 19,000 high schools and almost 7.7 million participants in high school sports.

Here are few of the top reasons, listed by the USTA on their website, for offering a no-cut tennis program:

• One week of tryouts is not enough for a coach to know who the best players will be in four years. Coaches are often pleasantly surprised by the contributions made by individuals considered to have less potential.
• Children who are cut from sport programs are almost always the least skilled or those who have discipline problems. It is precisely these youngsters who are in need of an opportunity to grow through sport. “ Frank L. Smoll and Ronald E. Smith, Sports and Your Child, second edition; Warde Publishers, Inc. 2005
• No-cut programs open more opportunities for cooperation with parents, school and community that can result in much needed booster support as well as a built-in fan base for team matches
• Giving students the opportunity to be on a team with friends and representing their high school can provide a positive and memorable experience that will benefit them long into adulthood.
• It's the right thing to do - every child should have the opportunity to engage in healthy, lifelong activities in a safe and supportive environment with their peers.

On the court, I work diligently with students in Gloucester Twp., beginning at age 5, to help them develop skills, but perhaps more importantly the love, of the lifetime sport called tennis. Research has shown that tennis players score high in vigor, optimism, and self-esteem, and lower in depression, anger, confusion, anxiety and tension than other athletes and non-athletes. Having worked with hundreds of players over my many decades of teaching, I truly believe that what I offer is a gift that these kids can take with them into their future. How unfortunate is it for this gift of excitement and optimism to be squelched in high school by a system that limits how many can have a chance to play. 

Let me leave you with this, a coach's testimonial, once again from the USTA website: 
"We only had two courts and I had 21 kids turn out,'' Escame recalled of the 1969 season. "After the first week, I wrote down 16 names, and said if your name was on that list, you made the team. This girl came up to me in the hall and she said, "Mr. Escame, my name isn't on the list." And she started crying, and I couldn't look at her. I said, "You're right on the cusp. If you go out and practice, you're sure to make the team next year". Then she said, "If I'm not on the team, how can I practice?" I made up my mind after that season that I would keep everyone."
– Steve Escame, a no-cut high school tennis coach of 34 years with over 500 tennis victories

Is this the scene we want played-out in our schools or even our independent sports organizations? Can't we find a better way to encourage the potential of all kids who have the desire to participate in today's sports?

LOCAL NEWS: Tennis under the summer sun-No Blood, Just Sweat and Cheers

GlouTwp. Recreation Summer 2013

No one will disagree that mid-July of 2013 has been a scorcher. The combination of heat and humidity has made outdoor activities especially uncomfortable regardless of attire or frosty beverage. But the hottest action of all has been on the tennis court at Gloucester Twp. Community Park during the QuickStart Tennis summer evening session from July 15th-19th. "Madison found a new hobby and sport" said one parent from her first experience with tennis. So many kids and parents may not yet realize that soccer and little league are not their only choices during the summer months.

The roster of players ranged from ages 5-10, and their levels of experience with tennis varied about as much as their height. Fortunately for all, the learning activities, drills, and skill-based games were designed to accommodate all in attendance. The key element to any interactions with kids is fun, and the hot summer evening sun reflected off smiles on the faces of kids and parents alike. With games like Goldmine, Scorebounce, and Cone Catcher, even the very humid conditions could not suppress the enthusiasm felt on the court. When parents were eventually brought out to participate in some heat-adjusted games, they too seemed to enjoy themselves in this family-friendly program that welcomes parental involvement. Another parent wrote of their experience, "coach Ron is very kid oriented. He's very patient and  speaks to the kids on their level. He's made tennis very fun."

One more session is available this summer from August 5th to 8th from 9AM to 10:30AM at Gloucester Twp. Community Park. Registration is handled through the Gloucester Twp. Recreation Center located at 80 Broadacres Drive, Clementon (Next to the Cherrywood development). Call (856) 435-5734 for details or contact Ron Miller of Gotta Play Tennis at 856-359-GPTS. The recreation center is open Monday - Thursday, 8:00AM to 5:45PM with extended evening hours on Tuesdays and Thursdays until 7:30PM.

FAVORITE SITES: Timeless Tennis by Gary Bala

Andy Murray is the King of England: The 2013 Wimbledon Championships

For nearly eight decades, Britain has been waiting, hoping and dreaming...read more.

HOW TO'S: 5 Basic Ways to help you Prepare for Tennis Tryouts

It's that time of year when girls all over South Jersey are busy preparing for tennis tryouts, usually held sometime in August, at their local high school. Although most coaches will provide some type of open-court time to help groom those interested in the sport, this is only a small part of how a player should prepare if they are serious about making the girls team for the fall season. Here are 5 basic things you might consider that will no doubt give you an edge against the competition:

1. Private or semi-private lessons: A knowledgeable instructor can help you grow by leaps and bounds as they provide technique, tactical, and training assistance. Play as much as possible soon after a lesson and attempt to apply what was learned.
2. Hit lots of tennis balls: The technique of immersion, used regularly in learning a world language, is extremely practical for tennis. Spend as much time on a court as possible (preferably in point play) so that you can nurture a comfortable and excited feeling when walking through the gate. Repetition–hitting specific shots over and over again–helps you develop consistency and lessen mental fatigue. Less surprises during a match usually equals better results. Remember-you PLAY how you PRACTICE.
3. Physical training: Endurance is a huge part of tennis (especially for singles play). When tired, you stop moving your feet and everything else fails as a result. Running is important, but remember that tennis is a quick-sprint sport and not a cross-country run. Work on footwork drills (preferably using an agility ladder), sprinting drills (can be used to pick up balls on court), and lots of quick direction changing runs both side-to-side and front to back. Strength training (especially for the upper body and core) is helpful, but don't ignore working the wrists and developing a stronger grip by squeezing a tennis ball (or grip strengthener) while doing other sedentary activities.
4. Mental training: Learn as much as you can about tennis–how to keep score, rules of etiquette (review The Code), what basic tactics work for the pros, etc. Watch tennis on network television, YouTube clips, ESPN3 steaming or The Tennis Channel. Play tennis in video games and be competitive (be careful as poor technique works in video but not in reality). Seek out some tennis podcasts (iTunes or other podcatcher), either video or audio, that can be seen or heard on a computer, tablet, or smartphone.
5. Flexibility: It took training in martial arts for me to understand the value of flexible muscles on a tennis court. Seek knowledgeable advice on stretching muscle-groups and actively do so whenever the opportunity for sitting in place arises (stretch while watching a movie or TV show for example). When tight muscles do not fight themselves, you increase endurance and lessen chances for injury.

Good luck!

LOCAL NEWS: Both kids and parents take a swing at Tennis Family Fun Day

Kooshball catch is always a fun favorite

Visualize a mildly-warm saturday morning in June, energetic kids ages 5-14, and tennis courts filled with fun and skill-building activities. This gives you some idea of how it was at the 2nd Annual Tennis Family Fun Day in Gloucester Twp. Community park. The event, hosted by Ron and Trish Miller of Gotta Play Tennis Kids (with the cooperation of the Gloucester Twp. Recreation Center) showcased the low cost, family-friendly activity of QuickStart tennis. Newly-budding tennis players participated in a variety of activities that worked their minds and bodies while being introduced to some of the tennis stroke and movement basics. Games such as Shark Island and Cone Catcher emphasized visual awareness and quickness, while activities like Kooshball Catch and Tennis T's worked on racquet control. Players got to move around in small groups to experience a snapshot of the QuickStart tennis format which is ideal for younger players looking to learn the game.

Needless to say, the kids (and parents) had a great time at this totally free event which introduced quite a number of Gloucester Twp. families to the benefits that Gotta Play Tennis Kids provides with Spring, Summer and Fall programs offered through the recreation center. To my knowledge, there is no other event that helps parents get a first-hand look at the advantages this lifetime activity called tennis can provide. But looking was only a part of the parents' involvement. Ron and Trish invited the adults to grab a provided racquet and start hitting with their kids using the special player-friendly slow-bounce or foam balls that help all ages participate together. As usual, when parents are engaged instead of just standing on the sidelines, they feel more a part of their kids' activity. When it was time to go, both parents and kids seemed willing to stay for even more. But it was time to put down the racquets as the event came to its conclusion.
Tennis Family Fun Day was a great success, and the wish is that those in attendance will spread the word and tell others about what Gotta Play Tennis Kids can provide in the way of recreation, exercise, and just plain fun. 

Registration for the summer saturday programs and evening summer camps is still available at the Gloucester Twp. Recreation Center located at 80 Broadacres Drive, Clementon (Next to the Cherrywood development). Call (856) 435-5734 for details or contact Ron Miller of Gotta Play Tennis at 856-359-GPTS. The recreation center is open Monday - Thursday, 8:00AM to 5:45PM with extended evening hours on Tuesdays and Thursdays until 7:30PM.

NEWS: 2nd Annual Family Fun Announced by Gotta Play Tennis Kids

Come join us for the 2nd Annual Tennis Family Fun Day.

Held on the courts in beautiful Gloucester Twp. Community Park, this FREE event showcases the QuickStart Tennis programs offered by Gloucester Twp. Recreation and Gotta Play Tennis Kids.

• No equipment or tennis experience necessary
• Try out first-hand the reduced-size courts, junior racquets, age-appropriate FOAM, RED FELT or ORANGE FELT balls that help everyone gain tennis skills faster than ever before
• Play games, similar to those used in the youth tennis programs, as a family
• Receive details about upcoming programs in 2013
• FREE drawing for a junior tennis racquet

And better yet, this event is absolutely FREE!

Rain Date: Sunday, June 23rd

EPISODE 99 (Podcast): Plan your work, but don't be afraid to adjust

You've no doubt heard the expression "plan your work and work your plan". While it may be important to begin each match with a plan, one must have the courage to make adjustments in order to maximize their potential.

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FAVORITE SITES: Timeless Tennis by Gary Bala

Posted: Tuesday, April 2, 2013
The Masters of Miami 2013: Andy Murray & Serena Williams

Key Biscayne, FL - Andy Murray (No. 3, Britain) prevailed over David Ferrer (No. 5, Spain) in a grueling, see-saw 3 set battle this past weekend to take the Men's Singles Championship at the Sony Open in Crandon Park Tennis Center, 2-6, 6-4, 7-6 (1).
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