This weekend, I stepped back onto the court for a USTA 6.0 doubles match, my first in a few years. Partnering with someone new always adds an element of excitement and this time, it was no different. Although new to me, my teammate proved to be a solid player with a consistent forehand that kept her opponent pinned to the baseline.
On the other side of the net, the opposing team presented a clear contrast. While the woman at the net held her own with her winning singles record, it was their male partner who presented the most exploitable weakness. His inconsistent serve, plagued by a weak second, was a shot I used to struggle with – either overhitting or underhitting in an attempt to overcompensate.
However, years of practice and refinement have paid off. I approached the match with newfound confidence, unshackled by the pressure I used to feel as the “higher-ranked” player. Instead of succumbing to the mental challenge of managing pace, I met it with technical skill and composure.
The result? A convincing 6.0, 6.1 victory. While I didn’t need to dominate the court, I stepped up when needed, making key shots during close points. The sole game we lost was due to a couple of unforced errors on my part combined with a well-executed shot from our opponents.
This experience was a testament to the positive impact of consistent training. It wasn’t just about the physical improvements to my game; it was the mental maturity that allowed me to stay calm and collected, even under pressure. I couldn’t help but reflect on the advice I often give my own students: the importance of mental composure and staying true to your training.
As I warmed up before the match, I hit with a local 3.0-rated player known for his raw talent. While he possessed impressive strokes, mirroring my pre-development days, his struggles with shot selection and pace were evident. He would unleash powerful serves only to miss them by a mile, a scene that resonated deeply with my past experiences. His match ended in a close, nail-biting battle, and I couldn’t help but empathize with the tension he must have been feeling.
Of course, with any competitive match, the fear of losing was present. As a coach, the potential for defeat carried an extra layer of pressure. Ultimately, the experience served as a powerful reminder of how far I’ve come and the importance of staying focused on continuous improvement, both on and off the court.
Thanks for reading! Have you ever wondered how to handle different situations on the court? Check out my YouTube channel, Street Wise Tennis, for insights and strategies.