Developing a Warrior Mode | AskThePro

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The mental side of competitive sports is crucial as it directly impacts an athlete’s performance and ability to handle pressure. Developing strong mental resilience, focus, and confidence can often be the differentiating factor between success and failure!

Today’s SMH contained an insightful article on Stuart Board’s development as a professional cricketer. Here’s the relevant teaching extract:

” ….  It’s been a remarkable career for someone who, in his first year of international cricket, was hammered for six consecutive sixes by India’s Yuvraj Singh during the inaugural Twenty20 World Cup in South Africa. Broad claims that over was the making of him. 

‘‘ It was obviously a pretty tough day . . . I learned loads,’’ Broad recalled. ‘‘ I pretty much based a whole mental routine through that experience, knowing I was left very short as an international performer in that moment. 

I rushed my preparation, I didn’t have any sort of pre-ball routine, I didn’t have any focus. And I started building my sort of ‘warrior mode’ that I call it after that. 

But I think it steeled me up to make me the competitor I am to this day and has driven me forward. 

You obviously go through massive peaks and troughs. But ultimately, I think it’s that bounce-back ability and ability to put poor days behind you because certainly . . . you have a lot more bad days than good days in cricket. You have to be able to deal with them to make sure your good days can flourish …….’’ 

In tennis, like any sport, there are highs and lows, victories and defeats. But it’s the ability to bounce back from setbacks, to learn from the bad days and to develop the resilience needed to thrive in the face of adversity. 

Embracing a “warrior mode” emphasizes the importance of incorporating pre-serve and 4-7-8 breathing rituals to reset one’s determination in overcoming setbacks during matches, ultimately allowing players to persistently seek solutions and maintain a competitive edge.

Good luck.
Rob  Tennis Whisperer

Game Changers: Mastering the Court’s Real Estate

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This week’s question comes from a mid level Badge player.  What are the optimal positions on a tennis court during a match? I often find myself in the wrong position during play.

Considering the highly sought-after nature of Manly as a real estate location, we can draw parallels to explain the relative tactical value of court positions using real estate as a simple metaphor.

1. Net Position – “Manly CBD”: The net position in tennis can be compared to a prime location in the real estate market. Being close to the net provides several advantages. Players in this position have greater control over the game, can execute quick volleys, and apply pressure on their opponents with aggressive shots. It’s a desirable location that allows players to dominate the court and dictate the pace of the game.

2. Baseline Position – “Home”: The baseline position in tennis can be likened to living at home. Being at the baseline gives players a bit more space and time to strategize and react to their opponent’s shots. It provides a solid foundation and acts as a starting point for rallies. Players in this position have a good vantage point to analyze the game, set up their shots, and patiently wait for the right opportunity to attack.

3. Mid-Court Position – “Strategic Acquistion”: The mid-court position in tennis can be compared to a strategically located investment property. Being in the mid-court gives players versatility and options. It allows players to quickly transition between defense and offense, covering more ground and maintaining control over the game. Players in this position can take advantage of opportunities and adjust their game plan based on the situation.

4. Approach Shot Position – “Emerging”: The approach shot position in tennis can be likened to a growth area in the real estate market. Being in the approach shot position provides players with the opportunity to move closer to the net and take control of the point. Players in this position can showcase their attacking skills, put pressure on their opponents, and potentially finish points with powerful winners.

5. Defensive Position – “Blue Chip”: The defensive position in tennis can be compared to a safe haven property. Being in a defensive position allows players to absorb their opponent’s shots and extend rallies. It provides a fall back option when the opponent has the upper hand, enabling players to reset and regain control of the point. Players in this position focus on consistency, precision, and strategic shot placement.

In summary: The net position represents a prime location for control and aggression, the baseline position is like the comfort of home with strategy and patience, the mid-court position is a strategically located investment property with versatility, the approach shot position is an emerging growth area with attacking opportunities, and the defensive position acts as a safe haven property for regaining control.

Good luck.
Rob  Tennis Whisperer