Discover how consistent practice and innovative drills transformed our approach to tennis coaching. We share amazing drill ideas and insights gained through decades of experience, aimed at leveling up your coaching game and performance on the court.
Jorge Capestany’s Journey
In the world of tennis coaching, drills are the cornerstone of effective training, offering players structured methods to enhance their skills. For me, the journey to becoming a drill aficionado was both organic and driven by necessity.
The Quest for Quality Drills
Attending numerous conferences, including those organized by PTR, USTA, and USPTA, I was eager to discover innovative drills to incorporate into my sessions. Despite teaching extensively—sometimes up to 45 hours a week for decades—finding fresh and effective drills was like striking gold. However, many presentations fell short, often filled with anecdotes rather than actionable drills.
Taking Initiative
Frustrated by the lack of practical content, I began advocating for more drill-focused sessions in conference evaluations. My persistence led organizations like the USPTA to challenge me: “Why don’t you present on drills?” Embracing the opportunity, I developed a presentation titled “Drills, Drills, Drills,” aiming to deliver concise and actionable content.
The Breakthrough Presentation
At the USPTA World Conference in the early 2000s in Las Vegas, I set a goal to present a minimum of 12 drills, dedicating about three minutes to each. The focus was on clarity and brevity—introducing the drill, demonstrating it, and highlighting key points. This approach resonated with attendees, leading to an overwhelming response and numerous invitations to present at various regional conferences.
Reflecting on the Journey
Looking back, the success of these presentations stemmed from a combination of well-crafted drills and the recognition that many coaches seek fresh, creative approaches to training. By sharing practical and innovative drills, I aimed to enrich coaching methodologies and inspire others to think outside the box in their training sessions.
In the end, the journey underscored the importance of continually seeking and sharing knowledge, ensuring that both coaches and players benefit from diverse and effective training techniques.
Kalindi Dinoffer is trained in multiple aspects of mindfulness in life and in sports, sharing on her blog MindfulKalindi.com. She is also certified to teach yoga, fitness, reiki, and MFR. Kalindi also serves as CMO at OnCourtOffCourt.com, a leading supplier of tennis, pickleball, fitness and yoga training aids and equipment and has been published in Tennis industry Magazine and Pickleball Magazine, and has conducted workshops at conferences around the world. In her spare time, Kalindi plays tennis, pickleball and table tennis and enjoys outdoor activities such as hiking and biking and cross country skiing in the winter.
