2019 USHSTA Atlanta Coaching Workshop
All lectures presented by USHSTA executive director, Steve Milano.
*Denotes on-court sessions
9:30-10:00 — Check In
10:00-10:30 — Coaching Basics
Basic advice about administration, budgeting, fundraising, developing a personal coaching style, holding tryouts, team building, discipline, team rules, making lineups, challenge matches, coaching during matches, first aid, etc.
10:30-11:15 — Intro to Sport Science
An overview of the sports sciences (biomechanics, exercise physiology, nutrition, motor learning/pedagogy, psychology, physics) to help you avoid giving bad advice and training to tennis players during the year. Includes an explanation of the three different ways (and reasons) to feed balls. Very important!
11:15-11:45 — Planning a 3-Phase Season
Recommended strategies for planning a season of practices, drills and conditioning based on preseason, pre-competitive and in-season phases.
11:45-12:15 – Lunch
12:15-1:00 — A Model Tennis Practice*
The components of a complete, model practice are discussed. You can use this format every day. Includes warmup, dynamic stretching, technique and tactical work, Game-Based (not Games-Based) drill pattern, conditioning and static stretching.
1:00-1:30 Avoiding Common Coaching Mistakes*
You’ll learn why many of the most popular drills and practice methods are pedagogically incorrect (i.e. damage your players’ skills), how to avoid them and how to run effective drills and practices.
An explanation of the difference between Game-Based (correct) and Games-Based (incorrect) teaching. “Practice like you play or you’ll play like you practice.”
1:30-2:00 – Correcting Common Stroke Problems*
The basic components of the forehand, backhand, return of serve and volley are reviewed. Common myths and tips for spotting and correcting common problems are demonstrated. No professional strokes are discussed – just fundamentals.
2:00-2:30 – Basic Doubles Strategies and Drills*
You’ll learn how to teach your players the fundamental serve, return, poaching, lobbing and movement for beginner to intermediate doubles. You’ll learn drills to teach each tactic.
2:30-3:00 — Teaching Girls to Serve*
Why don’t females serve as hard as males? (Hint: It’s not primarily physiological). Both the “frying pan” and loop serves are discussed to show how to make both more effective. Learn how to teach girls a loop serve (even during the season!) or improve an existing one. Practice plans included.
Logistical information (address, times, what to bring, etc.)
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3:00-3:30 — Starting a Georgia High School Tennis Coaches Association©
What will it take (and cost) to launch the Georgia High School Tennis Coaches Association©?
It’s actually pretty easy and inexpensive, and the USHSTA will provide advice to those Georgia coaches who are interested in serving on the first board of directors and committees.
Do you want a rules committee? Annual awards banquet? Hall of Fame? Monthly newsletter? Yearly conference? This session includes a review of what coaches have done in Arizona, Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Texas, Wisconsin and other states.
What did your fellow coaches think of previous USHSTA workshops?
