Last Week of Fall Practice

Yesterday, we had one of our best practices in my nine years here, and not one tennis ball was hit. Because of the rain, we moved indoors into the racquetball courts. It was our first indoor practice since last winter, and a good opportunity to let the freshmen know how we get after it. I love these practices because we get so wrapped up making the most of our time on court that the rain allows us to shift gears and change our focus a bit. Going indoors also allows us the opportunity to appreciate playing tennis in an environment that can be easy to take for granted.

I've said it many times, but great practices don't have as much to do with what we're doing, but rather how we're doing it. If we get into a championship mindset, we can get great work done only practicing short court. Yesterday, we put together a practice that enabled us to work together as a team and break up and work as partners. The freshmen were paired with more experienced guys as everyone worked through a series of sprints, medicine ball work, and everything in between. The space that we work in is pretty small, and I always love how we utilize every inch of that space. We use the walkway for sprints, the benches for a variety of exercises, and the courts for skill work, sprints, medicine balls, etc.

Andrew and I were impressed with the intensity and consistent level that everyone displayed. It wasn't easy, but everyone got through it and learned a ton about themselves. They also learned that they are stronger as a group than as individuals. It is through the team that each guy will learn that they have more in the tank than they ever thought. I can't really single anyone out, as everyone pushed themselves. I must mention that Connor Sutton gets props for vomiting into trash can in front of the volleyball team and then getting right back after it. Hard work, discipline, teamwork, passion, and heart. That's how it's done boys. Hopefully back on court Friday to wrap up a stellar fall.

Sincerely,
Ben