If you’ve been playing league tennis for a while, then you’ve probably played against the same teams and/or opponents more than once. Did you remember how they played before you got on the court the second time, or was it a total surprise? Do you think it would be beneficial to know your opponent’s strengths and weaknesses before the match?
YES!
I was talking with my coach about one such match many years ago, back when I was a 3.0 player. She gave me the BEST. ADVICE. EVER. She said to buy a small spiral notebook, and after each match, write down names of the opponent’s strengths and weaknesses.
So, for example, when we played (and lost to) the Sugar Creek Jams in one of last seasons’ rain make-ups, I wrote this:
Neither had any real weaknesses, but I did record their strengths.
Well, we have a league match against them again next week, and this time, we’ll be ready for them! And if one or both end up playing a different line, I’ll warn my teammates about their shenanigans.
Now, I don’t do this for every opponent – just people I either lost to, or had a tough time against. Or maybe they had some bad-ass tricks that I want to add to my own arsenal.
This doesn’t have to be a notebook, either. I’m actually in the process of transferring my notes onto my iPhone because I always have it with me. That way, if my opponents see me on my phone right before the match, they’ll have no idea I’m looking them up (so I can take them down!)
I know this seems a bit extreme to those who only play to have fun, but while I also like to have fun on the court, I also like to win. And who knows? My opponents might have a notebook page with my name on it!
Knowing your opponent’s strengths and weaknesses may not guarantee a win – but it’ll definitely help!
Have you ever played the same people again in league, and wished you had remembered how good they were? Do you think having the low-down on your opponent before you played against them is a good thing, or unimportant? Let’s discuss in the comments section below!
