Selecting a Tennis Coach – A big decision!
If you are a tennis player looking to improve your game, or a beginner just starting out, perhaps the biggest decision you will make is choosing a tennis coach to develop your skills. After all, tennis lessons are expensive and the results you get can vary tremendously. If you take one or more lessons or clinics a week for several years, the dollars can really add up. Meanwhile how do you determine if your rate of improvement is commensurate with your investment? Of course this is subjective and difficult to measure. So what is measurable? A plan! When you interview a potential coach, you have every right to ask he/she how they plan to develop your skills, and how long it will take to achieve various levels of knowledge and skill. Meaning, what type of plan do you have? Where do you begin? What is your philosophy on skill development? (Do not accept a simple answer like “fundamentals, this is not specific enough.) Ask if you follow the plan how long will it take to achieve certain levels? Does the coach have a written plan? And so on…
Any reputable, organized and experienced coach should be able to answer these questions completely and comfortably. After all, you would be asking these types of questions if you were buying anything that cost several thousand dollars or more. The same goes for tennis coaching. I also recommend you ask for an introductory / audition lesson, where the Pro will provide you with a brief (30 minute) lesson and orientation. Most pros who have time in their schedule will provide this service to earn your business, and it’s a great way to learn more about the Pro’s teaching style.
The truth is, tennis coaches are like any other profession…there are good ones and there are bad ones and everything in between. Be sure you thoroughly check out your potential coach before making a financial commitment. Are they certified by the United States Professional Tennis Association? Can they provide you with references? Do they have a website? How long have they been teaching? And so on. Just be sure to do your homework to find a coach who is a true professional: One that is truly skilled and motivated to help you develop good skills and achieve your full potential in the wonderful sport of tennis!