Tailor your game

Published: 29 Sep 2004 - 23:06 by rippa rit

Updated: 25 Feb 2008 - 18:35

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Have you ever felt there was just a couple of things that made the difference during a match? Little things can mean alot. If you are saying "I'll win next time".

There are a few things you can do that will definitely help.

Make some notes (use a diary) about the match, noting the things that you would like to be able to do next time you play that person.
Take away your opponent's strengths.
Hers's an example:

If one of the important points were return of serve was being intercepted by my opponent on the backhand side, this is how you can practise on this one aspect.

Get a team mate to serve lob serves, and practice:

Returning the ball in either of the front corners.
Lob returns to length that are tight, and high, and land in the back corner. (This return must force the opponent to the back of the court).
A variety of returns, which will keep the opponent guessing, and discourage or delay the opponent from stepping across so early to volley.

Refer to the Diary notes, specifically applying to this opponent, before playing that person next time; then, set an overall game plan.
What might appear to be an ideal serve against one opponent may not work as well against another and so on.
That is what makes the game so interesting
Tip: By returning the ball to alternate corners of the court, it will stop the opponent dominating the centre of the court.