With the platform tennis season right around the corner, players should think about lessons, drills sessions, or a clinic to improve your game? Even better, how about an extended weekend learning the sport at a platform tennis camp in scenic Jackson Hole, Wyoming? A camp setting provides a learning environment where tactics and techniques are introduced in the early stages and refined over the next 4 to 5 days.
This discussion looks at a compilation of the programs I have used while running RJR Platform Tennis Camps over the past 19 years. A camp consists of 8 sessions, each 2-3 hours in length. The sessions include instruction, drills, and match play to reinforce what was discussed earlier in the day.
Session I – Players are reminded about the importance of stretching and proper warm-up, hydration, and playing at high-altitude. The technical focus is on hitting serves with spin. (Note: the serve and first volley are taught as a unit.) Tactical discussions emphasize how placement of the serve and first volley dictate strategy and positioning for the remainder of the point.
Session II – The session begins by hitting controlled forehand drive service returns; however, the main focus continues to be the techniques and tactics of hitting the serve and first volley. (Serve and first volley sessions may also have a complementary service return focus). Volley technique and placement are again emphasized. The tactical goal of the serving team is to force the opposition to hit from either a neutral or defensive position after the first volley.
Session III- Forehand and backhand screen play is reviewed. From a technical standpoint, the emphasis is on efficient movement and positioning. Subtle positioning differences are noted for the forehand and backhand wires.
The tactical discussions center on shot selection (lob or drive) and placement (down-the-line, middle, or cross court).
Session IV – Again, attention is given to the serve and first volley. From a technical perspective, the focus is on efficient movement when volleying. Tactically speaking, players practice placement and court positioning. Drills focus on consistent execution of the serve and first volley to allow the serving team to efficiently maintain control of the net for the entire point.
Session V – The overhead instruction spotlights consistency and placement. Players try the various types of overheads (spin, push, pillow, waterfall, slash, roll, sidearm, 3/4 arm, tennis overhead). The importance of near-perfect execution on the overhead is highlighted during match play. For example, a scoring system may be put in place where a missed overhead causes the offender to automatically lose the game.
Session VI – Attention shifts to shot selection (lob or drive) and placement in the backcourt, beginning with the service return. Players are shown how to move the team at the net, create offensive opportunities, and escape from defensive predicaments. In the match play, players are motivated to keep their lobs in play. A scoring system is put in place where offenders automatically lose the game when they miss a lob.
Session VII – The session continues with a review of the technical and tactical aspects of serve and first volley, positioning at the net, and backcourt play. During a break in action, rules and etiquette are reviewed. Prior to match play, a series of drills are demonstrated to provide players with the tools to improve and maintain their skills after they leave camp.
Session VIII – In the final session players are divided into groups to focus on areas where they desire special attention.
Because platform tennis is easy to learn, many players feel that lessons are not necessary. Past participants in camps lasting 4-7 days can readily testify that they have increased enjoyment of the sport because of their improved technical and tactical knowledge.
