Progressive Development: Part 2

What do we teach to young players and when? One of the most controversial subjects in junior development is how to teach young players, and what to teach them when, especially when it comes to grips and swing patterns. To understand the issues involved, I think it is important first to discuss two terms that are often confused in coaching. The first term is "technique." The second term is "bio-mechanics." The terms are sometimes used interchangeably. But really they are different. "Technique" is the actual striking of the ball. Technique is related to grip and swing path and followthrough. These are things that are unique to tennis. "Bio-mechanics" refers to the underlying principles of how the body works, principles that should guide us when we look at technique. Bio-mechanical concepts include things such as center of gravity, balance, and loading and unloading. A low center of gravity means children do things well low to the ground. When we look at children from a bio-mechanical perspective, what do we see? They don't have strength. They have minimal muscle development. This means they have a very low center of gravity. Because of this they can do things really well down low to...