Finding a summer camp for serious young athletes can be challenging for parents, coaches, and players. The most important factors to consider are the head coach or guru, the ratio of players to coaches, the intensity of the training, technical instruction, tactical instruction, fitness program, and psychology and emotional control training.
The head coach should be active and involved with all the players, not just the elite ones. A smaller ratio of players to coaches, with two to three players per court or coach, is ideal, to provide personal attention and more time hitting balls. Coaches should be both kind and exigent, pushing players to extract their full potential.
"Many times, the head coach is more of a camp/office administrator, organizing practices but leaving the actual coaching to assistants. " - Chris Lewit
Technical instruction should focus on building skills and footwork, especially for younger and less experienced players, but be wary of overemphasizing technique or neglecting it entirely. Tactical instruction should prioritize real match play, provide feedback, and offer tournament play opportunities.
"Watch out for camps that teach no technique and only focus on tactics. Watch out for camps that don’t train movement and footwork." - Chris Lewit
Certified strength and conditioning coaches should professionally run fitness programs, such as those with the NSCA’s CSCS designation.
"The summer time offers an opportunity to improve fitness and prevent injuries." - Chris Lewit
Finally, psychology and emotional control training are becoming increasingly recognized as essential components of a successful program.
"It’s important to build character and develop mental toughness." - Chris Lewit
As a camp and club owner, the author of this article has insider knowledge of what to look for in a high-performance camp. Chris shares the most important aspects of great summer camps for serious players that parents, coaches, and players should consider before signing up.
Don’t miss out on this valuable information that will help your young tennis player reach their full potential. Check out the article now!
Long Island Tennis Magazine: What Makes A Great High-Performance Summer Camp
New York Tennis Magazine: What Makes A Great High-Performance Summer Camp?
Check the latest episodes of the Prodigy Maker Show:
Simple Things To Help Your Kid Win More At Tournaments – Prodigy Maker Show Ep 70
Is The One-Handed Backhand Near Extinction? – Prodigy Maker Show Episode 69
Follow Chris at these websites and social media links:
Visit Chris Lewit Tennis Academy Website
Visit the Prodigy Maker Show Blog
Chris Lewit Tennis Academy Facebook
Follow us on Twitter
Connect with us on LinkedIn
Follow us on Instagram
Subscribe to our YouTube channel