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Last week, I wrote about the difference between learning/teaching (changing a motor pattern) and training (refining a motor pattern). Understanding the textbook definitions is only the first step, however. I believe it's just as important to know when to teach and train, and furthermore, to understand the role of the coach and player in each of these situations. To decide what to do, there are a few questions we can ask ourselves. Where is the skill on the skill acquisition p

If we really wanted to divide athletes into two groups, we could make the argument that there are thinkers, and there are grinders. This is too simplistic, but the point remains: some players prefer to break things down, reflect, tinker, and make changes. Others prefer to simply outwork the competition. In other words, do you work hard, or do you work smart? When it comes to improvement in any athletic endeavour, it’s not an OR but an AND – players must work hard and smart. F

In Part 1 of the Success Qualities, I discussed the importance of being a hard worker. I chose to put it first because I believe it is the most important, but it by no means is the only quality required. Tennis is a complex sport, and while it is important to be physically fit and to be able to grind out ball after ball, there are also times when it is important to learn new skills, whether they be technical, tactical, mental, or physical. How quickly a player assimilates new