Improvement Suggestion for a high UTR 4

[mental game]

HI I'm an incoming Freshman, and I was wondering if anybody knows any general things I should work on. Examples being any specific drills, what should I be thinking about while practicing, or general strategy books. Some things about me I've been told that my footwork could be improved, don't have very strong arms, I struggle playing balls that land close to my feet, and I'm an aggressive baseliner. Any help would be appreciated thanks trying to get into the tennis team, tryouts in a few months and they're in a double or maybe triple elimination bracket. Additionally I've been told I struggle timing the takeback contact, footwork etc., if anyone could explain how I should time it or how to practice that.

 

[Curious]

1. Can you send the ball to where you want to?
2. Do you know where you should send the ball to every time you receive it?
Focusing mostly on 2 helped me with 1, too!

 

[mental game]

I can send the ball where I want, but don't always know where to send it my default is cross court.

 

[Curious]

I can send the ball where I want, but don't always know where to send it my default is cross court.

Cross court mainly, good idea. A few things I also keep in mind: avoid unnecessary speed, too low net clearance, too close to lines. Recognise difficult situations quickly and resist the urge to hit a low percentage shot. For example I see only smart/advanced players use a defensive lob when they’re pushed really wide or deep. Not so smart ones go for a low percentage aggressive shot.

 

[StringSnapper]

Video would be good so we can see your technique.

General advice:
- Make sure you dont regularly double fault, while swinging just as hard on your 2nd serve.
- the serve return is just as important as the serve. Always find a way to get it back deep.
- Split step just after your opponent makes contact and move to where you'll make contact.
- If you receive the ball behind the baseline, hit cross court. If you're inside the baseline, you have the option to go down the line.

 

[LuckyR]

At your level consistancy is King. Groove your strokes so you don't miss (by ramping up racquethead speed, but put into spin, not more pace).

 

[ichaseballs]

def tennis books can help break that plateau for many intermediate players

 

[ChaelAZ]

Got any match videos? One you won and maybe one you lost? That would be helpful to see where you are struggling, and what you are doing well to build on.

 

[mental game]

I can upload a video of me hitting drop feeds and some rallies tomorrow. Thanks for the help.

 

[nyta2]

serve - is your 2nd serve 90%+?

groundies

1. consistency - can you hit a 50 balls rally (25 in a row)
2. depth - can you hit 25 in a row past the service line
3. placement
4. pace
5. touch

volleys & overheads - because you'll likely be playing dubs... at utr4?

 

[KingCarlitos]

Consistency and depth and spin first, power later.