The responsibilities of a tennis coach extend beyond just sharing their passion for the game. At a tennis summer camp, the tennis coaches are responsible for teaching kids how to improve their skills, all while imparting valuable life lessons such as sportsmanship and group communication.
Below are some of the key responsibilities of a good tennis coach.
Be a Good Role Model
A tennis coach needs to be a good role model. Most kids are learning tennis and playing a competitive sport for the first time. Whether it is coordination, the rules of the game, or working with others, a good coach must be flexible in gauging the abilities and limitations of each player.
Develop the Skills of Tennis Players
To expand on developing skills, the tennis coach needs to recognize the potential of each participant. There are some for strive to be the next Milos Raonic or Bianca Andreescu while others are purely present for the joy of being with peers and learning the game.
Identify Areas of Improvement
A coach must identify the areas where each player requires concentration. Aside from focusing on proper techniques and methods, a good coach must be able to communicate in a gentle and disciplined manner.
Set Goals for Players
Based on the passion and skills demonstrated by the player, a tennis coach will be able to set reachable goals as part of the individualized programs. As with any sport, the “goal posts” are constantly moving as the players develop new skills.
Attend Trainee’s Matches
One of the informal roles is observing the players in action outside of regular training classes. This can be done at non-competitive and competitive games. This allows the coach to support their “student” while seeing first-hand the areas where skills may need to be improved.
Keep Everyone Updated About the Tennis Circuit
Tennis talk is common at all skill levels. A tennis coach is in the position because they have a passion for the game. Discussing current matches on TV or the results of their own games provides opportunities to teach skills while inspiring excitement for the sport.
Communicate with Parents/Guardians
It is very important for the home support to be included in each player’s tennis journey…and that’s where the coach comes in. Regular updates and communication with the parents or guardians are key to developing a harmonious relationship with everyone involved.
Meet Our Tennis Coach Peter Nielson
At Bayview Village Tennis Camp in Toronto, we are proud to have former Tennis Canada National Coach Peter Nielson as our head pro and tennis camp director.
For nearly 40 years, Peter has been sharing his expertise and passion for the game with his team of Tennis Canada-certified instructors and camp participants. Peter is a certified Ontario Tennis Association (OTA) Level 3 coach, an OTA Provincial Course Conductor, and a recipient of the OTA Junior Development Award. Contact Peter and his team at (905) 889-7293 or email Peter at pnielsen889@rogers.com.