Finding a ‘good coach’ first begins with understanding what constitutes one, but for the purposes of this article, a good coach should be considered someone who can work in a variety of different settings with a variety of different players and be highly effective in each. Let’s take a quick look at 7 important factors to consider when searching for a tennis coach whether you are a club player looking to hire a tennis coach near me, or for a full-time high-performance tennis player in search of a traveling coach.
1. Experience: You may ask why experience is such an important attribute for a coach to possess; because quite simply, you don’t want your coach ‘learning’ on the job. You want your coach using shortcuts they previously learnt to help improve and expedite your prgress rather than making ‘mistakes on your watch.’
2. References/Recommendations: Seeking recommendations from previous clients can provide valuable insights into a coach’s effectiveness, communication style, and overall coaching approach. Positive recommendations can give you confidence in your decision, while negative feedback may serve as a red flag.
3. Qualifications: Unfortunately, tennis coaching is so poorly governed all over the world that reviewing a person’s qualifications is typically not worth your time. Qualifications such as the P.T.R. or USPTA are so poor and provide such little substance that most coaches only have them if they are required to by their employing club/organization, or if they are using the qualification for its primary benefit of liability insurance.
The sad reality of the tennis profession is that someone who has been involved in tennis for as little as 6 months can become qualified in one or both organizations basically over a weekend making its overall value very low. While there are some better certifications available such as the L.T.A.’s coach accreditation or Tennis Australia’s coaching pathway they all fail to really develop or consistently cultivate great coaches on a high level. So, while this may not be good news, I would still advise you to at least check they hold some recognized certification to at least ensure they have been involved in the game in some capacity, and asking about their non-tennis related qualifications can potentially be a more interesting endeavor as they may have a background in sports psychology, physiotherapy, strength and conditioning or nutrition which can bring an extra dimension of benefits to your on-court sessions.
4. Word Of Mouth: Word of mouth is a common and effective way of finding a new coach. However, it’s important to recognize its limitations, especially if you’re new to the sport and don’t have existing connections. Additionally, relying solely on word of mouth may perpetuate a lack of innovation if coaches are frequently recycled within the community. Having the comfort of a personal recommendation is typically valuable, but make sure you do your due diligence as there are lots of great coaches around and spending the extra time to find the ‘perfect’ fit can ensure a lifetime of enjoyment on the tennis court.
5. Availability: A coach’s availability is a crucial consideration, especially if you have specific scheduling requirements or commitments. Ensuring that your coach can accommodate your schedule and provide consistent support is essential for long-term progress.
6. Morals/Ethics: A coach’s morals and ethics play a significant role in fostering a positive coaching environment. Look for tennis coaches who prioritize integrity, respect, and ethical conduct in their interactions with players and colleagues. This is especially true if you are looking for a full-time coach that would be spending a considerable amount of time with the player traveling to events and socializing outside of the tennis court. For many players the coach is an important role model that will have a significant impact on their belief systems both on and off the court.
7. Online Websites: Many aspiring or current professional coaches post their coaching profiles online so that interested parties can find them. Websites such as OrangeCoach, sportsprosconnect and the prestigious FirstStrikeTennis all provide a platform/marketplace that helps industry experts and players connect so we highly recommend you take the time to explore these options.
Beware of coaches who list an excessively high number of players on their resume, as well as those who mention very few, as both scenarios can indicate potential coaching weaknesses. When seeking the right tennis coach, it’s essential to consider a variety of factors, including experience, references, qualifications, availability, morals/ethics, and online resources. Conducting trial periods with multiple coaches allows you to find the best fit for your needs and preferences. Additionally, paying attention to details such as punctuality, preparation, communication, knowledge, and passion can further guide your decision-making process. Whether you’re a club player or a high-performance athlete, selecting the right coach can significantly impact your tennis journey.
Please comment below and let us know what items would make it in to your ‘Top 5′ and always remember that whether you are looking for tennis coaches near me, high performance training, tennis consultations or simply just a great tennis coach to help you improve your game, First Strike Tennis’ Network consultants are here for you.
