2019 Spring Brochure PDHP_Spring_2019_WEB Final | Page 13

WHAT IS THE HARDEST THING FOR A TENNIS
PLAYER TO OVERCOME? WHO MENTORS DEER CREEK’S COACHES, HOW
DO THEY LEARN & KEEP LEARNING?
Bad habits are the most difficult to overcome. It all starts with
your mental approach – you must be open and willing to
change your habits. Being open to the idea of breaking bad
habits and creating better habits can be 90% of the battle. Because the game is evolving so quickly, we are continually
reviewing new techniques with our staff and incorporating
modern stroke mechanics into all levels. We also make sure our
curriculum is consistent across all levels. Not all clubs can say
that. Beginners get the same stroke instruction as high-level
students and all classes include a dynamic warm-up and work
on grips, preparation, contact point and follow-thru.
WHAT IS THE BIGGEST MISTAKE PEOPLE MAKE
PLAYING TENNIS?
Players typically have problems with good follow-thru on their
strokes. Follow-thru establishes consistency in your game and
can help you avoid injuries like tennis elbow. Learning the
proper stroke mechanics like follow-thru makes the game more
fun and rewarding.
At Deer Creek, our coaches break down stroke mechanics
into simple steps. Players are encouraged to practice and
master each step. But we don’t just focus on the technical
development of our players. We listen to their concerns or
excitement about their game and their development. Because
our coaches are good listeners, we create a better bond with
our players and that is key when it comes to their development
in the game.
WHAT DOES THE FUTURE HOLD FOR TENNIS?
Tennis is in good place today. It is a great alternative to team
sports. Tennis is for everyone – casual players can play for the
fun of the game and serious players love it because of the
strategy involved. With tennis, you are always in the game –
you get to hit ball all the time. No one can monopolize the
game. You are in control.
The game is also evolving quickly. That keeps it fun and
interesting. Even in the last six months there have been changes
to preferred grip techniques and stances for beginners.
Our pros do have the flexibility to incorporate their own
personal flair and to utilize creative new techniques for
teaching certain strokes. A pro might have you stand on a
saucer that helps you learn how to pivot or bring out a topspin
device to the court to teach you how the racquet head goes
thru the topspin motion. There are also creative games and
methods we use to keep it fun, because people learn better
when they are having a good time.
WHAT IS IT ABOUT THE TENNIS PROGRAM AT
DCRC THAT MAKES IT SO UNIQUE?
First and foremost, Deer Creek is a friendly, welcoming, fun
atmosphere from the minute you walk through the door.
From our front desk staff to our coaches, we want to build
relationships with our players. We have a vested interest to get
to know you and your family; to answer your questions, help
you meet your goals, and celebrate your successes. We get
excited when our members do well and love to talk to parents
about their children’s progress.
Our dedication to incorporating new techniques into our
curriculum at all levels ensures we are giving our best to every
player who walks onto our courts – no matter their age or level.
There is nothing more rewarding than keeping our players
motivated, developing, having fun, and staying in the game.
Spring 2019 • Park District of Highland Park
13