Problem Solving 101
Among the skills we discuss most, and focus hard on developing in our young players, are the critical skills of problem solving. These can come into play in many ways during competition and training, and the player who is best at it, will doubtlessly enjoy the better results. This is more than a competitive skill, but more a life skill that players can call upon when needed. The key? Keep it simple. Look to the basics, and you will likely find the solution.
Among junior tennis players, the hardest element of solving the problem is not necessarily determining the solution to what is happening, but determining what the critical problem is. Often, players in the heat of battle, will wrongly identify the problem as something technically complex, patently unfair, or completely out of their control. We have all heard or seen the common response, "why can't I play today?" "why is this kid treeing against me?" " How does she get all the lucky bounces?" Or perhaps the equipment is to blame. How many players glare at their racquet after an unforced error as though the frame or strings failed them in a pivotal moment?
The truth is, finding the problem of poor performance or results while competing is challenging, but doable. And it can be trained! Keeping a level head and performing a checklist, particularly on changeovers, can often lead the player to an appropriate solution. Let's talk about a sensible approach. Okay, you're about to sit down on changeover, down 1-4, and desperate to problem solve before the match gets away from you. Start with the simple stuff.
Most coaches would say that the leading causes of poor performance will boil down to a short list of possibilities.
1) what is the quality of contact, and how well am I visually tracking the ball? Watching the ball may seem an oversimplification, but if you're shanking all over the place and striking poor quality contacts, nothing will change your results sooner than keeping your head still and seeing the ball better and longer.
2) Am I moving well? split-stepping on time? using ample adjusting steps to align to the ball? In other words, is my footwork on point? Bad movement leads to poor alignment to the ball, misshapen strokes, and unforced errors, Take a hard look at your footwork,and watch your results improve.
3) Is my shot selection appropriate? Am I playing defense when my opponent pushes me back, or am I properly aggressive when I get a "green light" ball? Am I being patient, and choosing higher percentage shots? Clearly defined and tactically appropriate shot selection will surely improve performance.
Of course, the problem may be out of your control, as in your opponent is playing great, keeping you off balance, and consistently forcing you into areas and moments of discomfort. Even in those moments, the solution to the problem may lie in simply hanging in there, addressing the three aforementioned basics as well as possible, and relying on the reality that your opponent can't keep this up forever!
When things aren't going your way, look to your problem solving skills. Start with the simple basics and make sure you are exercising those fundamental skills that got you to your level. Find the proper solutions, and find yourself winning more matches.
