William Cowper, a famous 18th Century Poet, said that 'variety is the spice of life' and this also applies to match-winning tennis. If your opponent doesn't know what shot you're going to play next you will always have the element of surprise on your side. However, it is vital that your players know what shot they are going to play next which is why why we've created this changing pace session.
Starting gently with cross-court shots your players must make a definite decision whether to play a rallying shot or an attacking shot. Using a variation of height, speed and spin players will develop their ability to recognise opportunities where they can dictate play. As the session progresses, from controlled drilling to more open but structured pointplay, players will grow in confidence, choosing when and where to pick their moments to play aggressive and attacking shots.
This session is best suited for players who have reached a consistent playing level and are able to accurately select what shot they would like to play. The outcome of this session should see your players come out more confident in being able to disrupt the opponents rhythm in a match situation by using a full and varied range of skills.
"It is not only useful for staff who are experienced but a valuable tool for those subject staff who have to take teams."
The variety of sessions across sports - sometimes we steal session ideas from one sport and use them with another.
As we enter the business end of the competition, we take a look at the remaining eight teams and the key talking points surrounding each side.