Our Approach
For Kids Ages 6-15 within the broad range of Beginner, including new, experienced and more advanced beginners — I divide youngsters into different classes based upon age and skill level so that they can participate with their peers; different classes are scheduled on different days and times throughout the week. Each class is a small group, typically 4-7 players, and is organized into weekly one-hour lessons. We teach excellent mechanics, technique and footwork; keep the kids busy and moving; and focus on having fun and doing our best.
For Kids Ages 11-15 who have reached the level of Strong Intermediate Player, having had at least three years of regular play, lessons, and steadily improving skill level — These youngsters are in my junior development program, are new or relatively new to tennis competition, and on a path toward becoming successful high school varsity players. We have rigorous but fun clinics each week, focusing on stroke technique, shot-making, footwork, and learning how to play and win singles and doubles points. Most of these players participate on my academy’s junior team, where we compete in Friday afternoon team matches against other junior squads in the East Bay Junior Tennis League (EBJTL).
My strongest players among kids below high school age are my Young Tournament Players — These youngsters are the most advanced and deeply experienced players in my junior development program, and each has at least begun competing in Northern California USTA junior tournaments. We have two clinics each week for only this small group, enabling me to work closely with each player, and our time together on the court usually includes drills, singles and/or doubles play, constant attention to match strategies, point tactics, and mental approaches, and conditioning and speed work.
For Adult Players — Clients range from Beginners and Intermediate to weekly doubles players and 4.5 players competing in USTA league matches. Some are new to tennis, while others might be coming back to the game after a 20-year hiatus. It’s a genuine delight for me to work with adults, whether in private lessons, my Friday adult clinics, or in weekend group classes.
