Tennis Tip
Presented by Sujay Lama, Camp Director
Nike Tennis Camp at Arkansas State University
Tennis Tip: Attitude Can Make A Big Difference
University of North Texas Head Women's Tennis Coach, Sujay Lama, shares 2 valuable lessons to help improve your game this summer at tennis camp in Texas.
I love this time of the year for many reasons, but one of the best is kicking off the summer watching the French Open. The most grueling grand slam of all demands the ultimate physical and mental toughness. Rafael Nadal, king of clay epitomizes the strength and fortitude that is required to prevail at Roland Garros. 9 titles and just two losses in 11 years is an absolutely amazing accomplishment. His withdrawal from the third round this year due to wrist injury left a huge void for the tournament.
While I admire Roger, I have always gravitated towards Rafa. This is because I can identify with the effort he gives and the never say die attitude he has for every single point he plays. As a coach, this is what I try to teach every single day. You might be not be able to be at your best all time but surely you can give your best every single time. As you are trying to raise the level of your game this summer, keep these two valuable lessons from Rafa with you as you push through your work outs. It will pay off big time.
Learn to Suffer.
Be willing to get out of your comfort zone. Push through the fatigue. Play with challenging opponents and conditions. Tap into the “extra” you have in you and you will surprise yourself.
Love to Suffer.
This is when you take the leap from good to great. You not only learn to train and play out of your comfort zone but actually love doing it. When we compete in tournaments, isn’t that what we are faced with all the time? Those challenges are physical at times but mostly mental and now you thrive in these conditions.
Rafa has mastered these and so can you. Have a great summer ya’ll and continue enjoying this great game.
For more great tips from Coach Lama and his amazing staff, come join the fun this summer at University of North Texas Nike Tennis Camp.