Author: Meehan Tennis

Spring in Melbourne is famous for its unpredictable weather. One minute it’s perfect tennis weather, and the next, a sudden downpour has washed out the courts. But at Meehan Tennis Academy, we believe that a truly elite player isn’t just defined by their physical hit, but by their off-court IQ.  

When the rain sets in, it is the perfect time for your child to focus on the tactical and physiological elements of the game that separate the good players from the greats.  

Elevating Off-Court IQ

Our Performance Program is designed exclusively for players desiring to reach the elite level, and a key part of that journey is mastering the hidden side of tennis. When the unpredictable spring rain means we can’t take to the court, our highly trained coaches shift the focus to the pillars of our high-performance curriculum:  

• Match Strategy: Use the break to study. Understanding court geometry,  shot selection and where to place the ball in specific match situations is a fresh concept we regularly present to our squad players to maximise their development.  

• Nutrition & Hydration: Proper fueling is essential for long-term athlete development. Even as the weather shifts in spring, maintaining hydration is vital for focus and physical movement during high-intensity sessions.  

• The Psychological Game: Tennis is as much a mental battle as a physical one. Encourage your child to use rainy days to work on their goal setting and match-day mindset.

The Tennis Bag Checklist: Is Your Child Prepared?

A professional mindset starts with equipment. Use a rainy afternoon to audit your child’s tennis bag and ensure they have everything needed to perform when the clouds clear:  

• Weather Approparite Apparel: September in Melbourne is notorious for four seasons in one day. Keeping light, breathable layers in your child’s bag is essential for maintaining muscle warmth during sudden temperature drops or windy shifts. Proper apparel ensures your child’s body stays match-ready and helps prevent muscle strains caused by cooling down too quickly between drills.

• Spare Grips & Overgrips: Increased humidity and moisture in the air can quickly make racquet handles feel slippery and unstable. Carrying spare overgrips allows your child to maintain a tacky, secure hold on their racquet, ensuring it doesn’t twist in their hands during high-impact shots and helping them maintain total control over their placement.

• Strings for Racquet Maintenance: After enduring the harsh, cold winter months, your child’s strings have likely lost their snap-back and tension memory, making them feel dead or stiff. Spring is the ultimate time for a fresh restring to restore the power, feel, and spin potential required for the upcoming tournament season and more frequent outdoor play.

• High-Quality Junior Racquets: A child’s growth spurt over winter can often mean they’ve outgrown their current frame without you noticing. As your child moves through our Hot Shots stages, ensure their racquet is the correct length and weight; using a high-quality, correctly sized racquet is vital to support their advancing technical skills and prevent poor hitting habits or injury.

• Fresh Tennis Balls: Damp or humid conditions cause the felt on tennis balls to absorb moisture, making them heavy and fluffy. Keeping a fresh, pressurised can in your bag ensures that when the rain stops, you aren’t training with waterlogged balls that can strain your arm and hinder your stroke speed.

The Meehan Point of Difference

Our holistic approach to coaching—focusing on the whole player—is what sets Meehan Tennis Academy apart. We don’t just teach how to hit a ball; we coach the player in every aspect. By integrating sports nutrition, psychology, and tactical theory into our programs, we provide a clear pathway for students to move from their very first lesson all the way to the professional bracket.  

Don’t let the unpredictable September rain stall your child’s journey. Whether on or off the court, there is always an opportunity to improve.

Contact our team to learn more about our programs and which is the most appropriate fit for your child!

In the midst of the Melbourne winter, you might notice that hitting a tennis ball feels a little different than it did back in January. If your arm is feeling a bit more fatigued or you’re noticing a harsh vibration when you strike the ball, you aren’t alone. 

At Meehan Tennis Academy, we are committed to the long-term health and development of our players. This month, we’re looking at the science behind cold weather tennis and why a simple change to your strings can protect your arm and improve your feel on the court.  

The Science: Why Colder Weather is Tough on Your Arm

While you might be able to power through a session in the summer heat, the peak of a Melbourne winter introduces a specific set of physical challenges that change the very nature of how the game is played. 

Understanding these factors is the first step toward protecting your arm and maintaining your performance; here are the three primary physical changes that occur on the court during these colder months:

• Heavier Balls: Tennis balls are pressurised, and cold air causes that pressure to drop. This makes the ball feel heavier and less bouncy, requiring your arm to work harder to generate depth and pace.  

• Stiffer Strings: Just like the ball, your strings react to the cold. Materials like polyester (monofilament) become significantly stiffer and less elastic in low temperatures, losing their ability to absorb shock.  

• Court Surface Impact: Damp winter conditions often cause the ball to skid lower and faster off the court surface. This forces players to stay much lower in their stance and strike the ball with a more closed or cramped hitting zone, which places significantly higher stress on the wrist and forearm as they struggle to get under the ball.

When you combine a heavier-feeling ball and a stiffer string bed with a skidding surface that forces you into awkward hitting positions, the result is a significant increase in impact energy. 

This excess energy is transferred directly through the frame and into your wrist, elbow, and shoulder, which can increase the risk of strain if your equipment isn’t adjusted for the season.

The Solution: Why Multifilament is Your Best Friend During the Cold

If you want to maintain the professionalism and quality of your game during the coldest months, we recommend switching to a Multifilament string.  

Multifilament strings are designed to mimic the properties of natural gut. They are made of thousands of micro-fibres twisted together, which provides several key benefits for cold weather play:  

• Superior Shock Absorption: The soft construction cradles the ball on impact, significantly reducing the vibration sent to your arm.  

• Enhanced Feel: Even when the air is chilly, multifilaments stay elastic, giving you the touch and control you need for those delicate drop shots and volleys. 

• Added Power: Because these strings are more elastic than monofilaments, they provide a trampoline effect that helps you get the ball deep into the court, even when the balls are feeling heavy.  

Time for a Mid-Year Restring?

At Meehan Tennis Academy, our hardworking and highly trained coaches see first-hand how much a fresh restring can change a player’s confidence. 

If you haven’t refreshed your strings since the start of the year, they have likely lost their tension and their ability to protect your arm.  

Don’t wait for a dead racquet to affect your technique or cause an injury. Regluar restringing is a vital part of racquet maintenance that keeps your gear performing at an elite level.  

No matter which of our programs you participate in, your gear should work with you, not against you. Visit the Meehan Tennis Academy online store to browse our range of multifiliament strings today.

Alternatively you can reach out to our team for expert guidance on which multifiliament strings are right for you.

As the winter frost settles over the West of Melbourne this July, the tennis world turns its eyes to the pristine grass courts of SW19. Wimbledon is more than just a tournament; it is the pinnacle of tennis professionalism and passion—values we strive to embody every single day at Meehan Tennis Academy.  

Watching the world’s best navigate the pressure of a Grand Slam is incredibly motivating. But how do you help your child take that inspiration and turn it into real progress on the court?

The Pathway to Professionalism

At Meehan Tennis Academy, we offer a long-term tennis process that mirrors the journey of the pros. Every champion you see on TV started exactly where our students are now. Our developmental pathway is designed to support players at every stage:  

• Hot Shots: We deliver this learning through play program using smaller courts, lighter rackets, and softer balls to develop skills faster. Children progress through clear Red, Orange, and Green stages, guided by coaches trained through official Tennis Australia courses. 

• Squads: Designed for competition and tournament-level players, our squads follow a set curriculum to ensure students are regularly presented with fresh concepts to increase engagement and maximise development. Sessions are specifically designed to establish solid fundamentals across technique, tactics, physical movement, psychology, sports nutrition, and match play.  

• Performance Program: This professional environment is designed exclusively for players aspiring to reach the elite level. The program features a four-tier training system and a Long Term Athlete Development Plan (LTAD) to track technical, tactical, and physiological goals. 

Whether your child’s goal is to win a local tournament or one day step onto a court like Margaret Court Arena the journey starts with consistent training.  

Master the Skillset

While your child may be playing in the heart of a Victorian winter, they can still channel their inner pro by mastering the technical skills that define Wimbledon champions:

• The Slice Backhand: A low-skidding slice is a grass-court staple. Winter is the perfect time to work on the feel and control required for this shot.

• The Serve and Volley: Encourage them to take advantage of the cooler air to work on their explosive movement toward the net.

• Mental Fortitude: Allow them to use the winter months to build the same discipline shown by the world’s best. Staying on court when it’s cold builds the champion mindset needed to win the big points.

Professional Gear for Professional Progress

Wimbledon reminds us that tennis is a game of precision, and that includes equipment. If your child’s racket isn’t performing like the pros’, it might be time for an upgrade.

• Racket Maintenance: Just like the pros have their rackets restrung for every match, your child’s gear needs regular attention. The cold July air can make strings brittle, so consider a mid-year restring to keep your shots accurate.  

• High-Quality Frames: Transitioning to a professional-grade racket, like the HEAD Junior or HEAD Junior Tour Series, can provide the consistency your child needs to take their game to the next level.  

• Grips & Overgrips: Cold, damp weather can make handles slippery or cause standard grips to lose their tackiness. Replacing your child’s overgrip regularly ensures a secure, professional feel and prevents the racket from twisting in their hands during heavy winter rallies. 

Take the Next Step This July

Don’t just watch the finals—be part of the action. Our hardworking and highly trained coaches are here to help your child translate that Wimbledon inspiration into tangible results.  

Whether your child is looking to start in our Hot Shots program or you want to book a private lesson, July is the perfect time for your child to commit to their long-term tennis goals.  

Reach out to us today to learn more about our programs and which is the best fit for your child to channel their Wimbledon inspiration! 

As the Melbourne frost starts to settle on the courts this June, you might notice something strange about your game. That reliable forehand feels a bit off, or perhaps your racquet is vibrating more than usual on impact. It’s not just the cold air making you sluggish—the winter weather is actually changing the physical properties of your tennis racquet.  

At Meehan Tennis Academy, we aren’t just about elite coaching; we’re about ensuring you have the right tools to succeed. This month, we’re looking at why the cold is the secret enemy of your strings and how a mid-year refresh can keep your game hot while the temperature drops.  

The Science: Why the Cold Affects Your Strings

Tennis strings, whether they are made of synthetic gut, multifilament, or polyester, are incredibly sensitive to temperature fluctuations. Here is what is happening inside your racquet frame right now:

• Contraction and Tension Loss: Like most materials, tennis strings contract in the cold. This constant tugging against the frame leads to a faster drop in tension, leaving your strings feeling loose and mushy.  

• The Brittle Factor: Cold weather reduces the elasticity of the string material. Instead of snapping back like a trampoline to give you power, the strings become stiff and brittle.  

• Increased Vibration: Because the strings lose their ability to absorb shock in low temperatures, more of that impact energy travels straight up the handle into your arm. This is a common cause of tennis elbow during the winter months.

The Solution: The Mid-Year Restring

If you haven’t restrung your racquet since the summer season, you are likely playing with a dead bed of strings. Our coaching team recommends a Mid-Year Restring to maintain the professional feel of our performance programs.  

Fresh strings don’t just give you more pop on your serve; they provide the predictability needed to improve. When your equipment performs the same way every time you hit the ball, you can focus on your technique rather than compensating for a faulty racquet.  

• Pro Tip: During June and July, consider dropping your tension by 2–3 lbs. This helps compensate for the natural stiffening of the strings in the cold, giving you back that lost sweet spot feel.

Choosing the Right Winter Strings

If your racquet has seen better days, June is a fantastic time for a winter upgrade. Not sure which string is right for your winter refresh? We stock a variety of professional options in our online store to suit every type of player:

• Multifilament Strings: These are perfect for the colder months. They are designed to be soft and arm-friendly, providing excellent feel and shock absorption when the air gets chilly. They are a great choice for recreational players and juniors who want a comfortable hitting experience.
  
  Browse Multifilament Strings

• Monofilament Strings: For our performance and elite-level players who generate their own power, monofilament (poly) strings offer maximum durability and spin control. If you find you are breaking strings often during heavy winter training sessions, this is your go-to category.
  
  Browse Monofilament Strings

Get Winter-Ready

Don’t let your gear hold you back while you’re working hard in our squads. Whether you need a fresh set of strings or a brand-new HEAD racquet, we’ve got you covered.  

Does your racquet need a check-up? Chat with us or visit our online store to see our latest range.  

When it comes to improving your tennis game, many players focus on their racquet, string tension, or footwear—but what about the clothing you wear on the court? The right tennis apparel can make a significant difference in your performance, comfort, and endurance. 

Choosing high-quality, breathable gear, like the HEAD apparel available in Meehan Tennis Academy’s online store, ensures that you stay comfortable and focused from the first serve to the last point.

Tennis is an intense, high-movement sport that causes your body temperature to rise quickly. Without proper moisture-wicking fabrics, sweat can build up, leading to discomfort, overheating, and even skin irritation. 

High-performance tennis clothing, like HEAD’s range of tops and shorts, is designed with breathable, quick-dry materials that help regulate body temperature and keep you dry. This allows you to maintain focus and agility without feeling weighed down by sweat-soaked fabrics.

Ill-fitting or restrictive clothing can hinder your movement, affecting everything from your groundstrokes to your ability to chase down a drop shot. Tennis-specific apparel is designed with the sport’s dynamic movements in mind, offering features like ergonomic cuts, stretchable fabrics, and lightweight materials. 

HEAD apparel, for example, provides an athletic fit that allows full freedom of movement while maintaining a stylish and professional look on the court.

Tennis clothing experiences a lot of wear and tear due to repetitive motions, frequent washing, and exposure to outdoor elements. Investing in high-quality gear ensures longevity and sustained performance. 

HEAD apparel is known for its durability, offering reinforced stitching and premium materials that withstand the demands of competitive play without losing shape or comfort over time.

Different weather conditions require different types of apparel. On hot days, lightweight and ventilated fabrics help keep you cool, while on colder days, layering with moisture-wicking base layers ensures warmth without bulk. 

HEAD’s tennis apparel collection includes options suited for all playing conditions, helping players stay comfortable year-round.

What you wear on the court doesn’t just affect your physical performance—it also impacts your mental game. Wearing high-quality, well-fitted tennis gear gives you a confidence boost, helping you feel prepared and professional. 

Whether you’re training or competing, looking and feeling good in your gear can translate to improved focus and performance.

If you’re looking to upgrade your tennis wardrobe, Meehan Tennis Academy’s online store offers a selection of high-quality HEAD apparel designed to enhance your comfort and performance on the court. 

From breathable shirts to durable shorts, you’ll find everything you need to play your best while staying cool, comfortable, and confident.

Don’t let uncomfortable or low-quality gear hold you back. Invest in the right tennis clothing and experience the difference in your game today!

When it comes to helping young players develop their tennis skills, selecting the right equipment is just as important as practice and coaching. While many parents and junior players focus on choosing the right racquet, tennis balls also play a crucial role in a child’s learning process. The right type of ball can improve technique, build confidence, and make learning the game more enjoyable.

At Meehan Tennis Academy, we recommend using tennis balls that are specifically designed for junior players. That’s why we stock the HEAD T.I.P (Tennis Instruction Program) balls in our online store—each type is designed to support different stages of development and skill progression.

Traditional yellow tennis balls are designed for experienced players and travel at high speeds, making them difficult for young players to control. They require more strength, faster reflexes, and refined technique, which can be overwhelming for beginners. If a child struggles to hit or control the ball, frustration can set in, slowing down their development and affecting their enjoyment of the game.

This is where junior-friendly tennis balls come in. They are designed with modified speed, compression, and bounce to help children develop proper form and control at their own pace.

The HEAD T.I.P balls are designed according to the ITF’s (International Tennis Federation) Play & Stay program, which encourages a progressive approach to learning tennis. These balls are available in three levels, each tailored to different age groups and skill levels:

HEAD T.I.P RED BALL (Ages 5-8)

• 75% slower than standard tennis balls
• Larger size for easier contact
• Designed for use on small courts
• Ideal for beginners learning basic strokes

The T.I.P Red ball is perfect for young beginners who are just starting their tennis journey. With its lower compression, it moves slower and bounces lower, making it easier for children to hit and rally. This helps young players develop confidence in their swings and improve hand-eye coordination without feeling rushed.

HEAD T.I.P ORANGE BALL (Ages 8-9)

• 50% slower than standard tennis balls
• Medium-sized bounce for greater control
• Designed for use on mid-sized courts
• Great for transitioning from beginner to intermediate play

As juniors progress, they move on to the T.I.P Orange ball, which offers a slightly faster bounce while still being more manageable than a full-speed ball. This helps young players refine their technique, develop rallying skills, and get used to playing points on a larger court.

HEAD T.I.P GREEN BALL (Ages 9-10)

• 25% slower than standard tennis balls
• Designed for full-size courts
• Prepares juniors for tournament-level play
• Encourages longer rallies and improved footwork

The T.I.P Green ball is the final step before transitioning to regular tennis balls. With a moderate bounce and speed, it allows junior players to develop advanced footwork, stroke techniques, and match-play skills. It’s ideal for kids who are beginning to take their training more seriously and are preparing for competitive play.

Improves Stroke Mechanics: When children use the right tennis balls for their level, they can focus on developing proper technique instead of just reacting to fast-moving balls. Slower, lower-bouncing balls give them more time to prepare their swings and learn correct stroke mechanics.

Builds Confidence: Success breeds confidence, and nothing is more motivating for a young player than consistently hitting the ball over the net. Using appropriate tennis balls allows kids to rally longer and experience small wins, keeping them engaged and excited about the game.

Encourages Tactical Play: Junior-friendly balls make it easier to develop strategy and game awareness. Because the ball moves slower, kids can focus on placing their shots, moving around the court, and learning different playing styles rather than just reacting quickly.

Supports Physical Development: Junior players are still growing, and playing with standard tennis balls can put undue strain on their developing muscles and joints. The lower compression of T.I.P balls reduces the risk of injury while allowing young players to play longer without fatigue.

At Meehan Tennis Academy, we believe in giving young players the best tools to succeed. That’s why we offer the HEAD T.I.P balls in our online store. Whether your child is just starting out or progressing towards competitive play, choosing the right ball can make all the difference in their development and enjoyment of the game.

Browse our selection today and set your child up for success on the court!

Your tennis racquet is more than just a piece of equipment—it’s an extension of your game. While many players focus on finding the perfect racquet, they can end up overlooking restringing. Over time, strings lose tension, affecting power, control, and feel. Whether you’re a competitive player or a weekend warrior, knowing when and why to restring can make a big difference in your performance.

Your racquet’s strings don’t last forever. Here are the key indicators that it’s time to replace them:

Loss of Tension & Control: Strings stretch and loosen over time, reducing tension. If your shots feel less precise or you struggle with control, your strings might be too loose. This is especially noticeable if you’re hitting long or wide more often than usual.

Reduced Spin & Power: If your shots lack the spin or power they once had, your strings might not be gripping the ball effectively. Worn-out strings lose their elasticity, reducing energy transfer and spin potential.

Fraying or Breaking Strings: Visible wear, such as frayed strings, means they’re on the verge of snapping. If you frequently break strings, it might be time to adjust your string type or tension for better durability.

Change in Feel: If your racquet suddenly feels dull, unresponsive, or uncomfortable, it’s likely due to string wear. Fresh strings provide better touch and feedback, making your shots feel more controlled and precise.

Time-Based Restringing Rule: A general rule of thumb: restring as many times per year as you play per week. If you play three times a week, restring at least three times a year—even if the strings aren’t visibly damaged.

Different string types and tensions affect your game in unique ways. Here’s what you need to consider:

String Tension: Power vs. Control

• Lower Tension (22 kgs or less): More power and comfort but less control. Great for players who want an easier swing.

• Higher Tension (22+ kgs): More control and precision but less power. Ideal for advanced players who generate their own pace.

String Material: Comfort vs. Durability

• Monofilament Strings: Made from a single solid strand, monofilament strings (often polyester-based) are known for their durability and control. They provide excellent spin potential and are favored by players with fast, aggressive swings. However, they tend to be stiffer, which can lead to arm fatigue over time.

• Multifilament Strings: Constructed from multiple microfibers woven together, multifilament strings offer superior comfort, power, and a softer feel. They absorb shock well, making them a great choice for players looking to reduce strain on their arm while maintaining excellent playability. While they provide great touch and power, they typically wear out faster than monofilament options.

String Gauge (Thickness): Feel vs. Longevity

• Thinner Strings (17-18 gauge): More spin and feel but wear out faster.

• Thicker Strings (15-16 gauge): More durability but slightly less touch.

Restringing isn’t just about preventing breakage—it’s about keeping your racquet performing at its peak. If you’re unsure which strings to choose, Meehan Tennis Academy’s online store offers a range of high-quality options to suit every playing style. Keeping your strings fresh means better consistency, comfort, and confidence on the court.

Need a restring? Browse our online store for premium strings and upgrade your game today!

When it comes to improving your tennis game, many players focus on racquet selection, string tension, and footwork. However, one crucial factor often overlooked is grip size. The right grip size can significantly impact your control, power, and injury prevention, making it a key element in your overall performance on the court.

The grip size of your racquet affects how you hold and maneuver it during play. A grip that is too small or too large can lead to discomfort, poor technique, and even long-term injuries such as tennis elbow. 

Here’s how grip size influences different aspects of your game:

Control & Precision

A proper grip size allows you to maintain better control over your shots. If your grip is too small, your hand may shift during play, making it harder to control the ball. On the other hand, a grip that is too large can restrict wrist movement, limiting finesse shots and reducing your ability to generate spin.

Power & Swing Speed

Grip size also impacts how much power you can generate. A smaller grip allows for more wrist snap, which can increase spin and power on your shots. However, too much wrist movement can reduce stability, making it harder to direct the ball precisely. A larger grip offers more stability and control but may reduce overall racquet speed, making it harder to generate power effortlessly.

Injury Prevention

Using the wrong grip size can strain your forearm muscles and lead to conditions like tennis elbow or wrist pain. A grip that is too small forces you to grip the racquet more tightly, increasing tension in your arm and wrist. Meanwhile, a grip that is too large can overwork your forearm muscles, leading to fatigue and discomfort over time.

Finding the right grip size is easy and can be done using one of these two methods:

Finger Test: Hold the racquet in your dominant hand with a standard Eastern grip. If you can comfortably fit the index finger of your non-dominant hand between your palm and fingers, the grip size is appropriate. If there’s too much space or no space at all, the grip size may be too large or too small.

Hand Length Method: Measure the distance from the tip of your ring finger to the second crease in your palm. This measurement, in inches, roughly translates to your ideal grip size.

At Meehan Tennis Academy, we stock a variety of racquets with different grip sizes to suit all players. Here’s a quick guide to the grip sizes you’ll find in our store:

4 1/8” (Grip Size 1): Ideal for junior players and those with smaller hands.

4 1/4” (Grip Size 2): Suitable for most female players and some junior players transitioning to full-sized racquets.

4 3/8” (Grip Size 3): A common choice for male and female players with average hand sizes.

4 1/2” (Grip Size 4): Preferred by players with larger hands who need extra stability.

4 5/8” (Grip Size 5): Less common but suitable for players with very large hands or those who prefer a thick grip.

If your racquet’s grip is slightly too small, you can increase its size by adding an overgrip, which provides extra cushioning and control. Overgrips are a great option for fine-tuning your grip without permanently altering your racquet.

Choosing the right grip size is essential for maximising your comfort, control, and power on the court. Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced player, ensuring you have the right fit can help prevent injuries and improve your overall performance.

Visit Meehan Tennis Academy’s online store to explore our range of racquets and grips, and find the perfect match for your game!

As the world’s best descend upon Melbourne Park for the Australian Open, every point is a lesson in strategy, focus, and opponent analysis. You see players making mid-match adjustments, exploiting weaknesses, and executing tactical game plans.

You don’t need to be a professional to think like one! Incorporating simple opponent analysis into your match play, whether in a tournament or a casual club fixture, can dramatically improve your results.

Here are five simple ways for junior and recreational players to start analysing their opponent like a pro:

Watch Their Warm-Up—It’s Not Just a Hitting Session

The warm-up is your first, and often most revealing, scouting report. Don’t just focus on yourself; pay attention to what your opponent is doing.

• Spot the Comfort Zone: Which side (forehand or backhand) do they hit with more pace, depth, and confidence?

• Check the Serve: Are they mixing up serves (slice, kick, flat) or relying heavily on one speed or placement? Do they struggle with the second serve?

Knowing this can help you decide your early match strategy—for example, if their backhand is weak, you know where to target the majority of your returns.

Identify the ‘Go-To’ Shot (and the Safety Shot)

Every player has a weapon they rely on when they need a winner, and a ‘safety shot’ they use when they are scrambling or under pressure.

• The Weapon: Does their forehand down-the-line consistently win them points? When they get short balls, do they automatically try to attack cross-court?

• The Safety Shot: When they are pulled wide, what is their usual recovery shot? Is it a soft slice, a high loop, or a weak ball to the middle of the court?

By recognising their habits, you can anticipate their decisions and cut off angles, forcing them to hit shots they are less comfortable with.

Read the Body Language and Footwork

Energy and effort can tell you a lot about a player’s mental state and physical fitness.

• Look for Fatigue: Are they dragging their feet between points? Are their serves getting noticeably slower in the second set? Targeting a tired opponent with drop shots and wide angles can break them down faster.

• Frustration Cues: Do they look down, slump their shoulders, or rush their serve routine after missing an easy shot? A frustrated opponent is often predictable. Keep the ball deep and steady to allow them to make more errors.

Adjust Your Serve Location Based on Return Position

Just like the pros at the AO, you should be making tactical adjustments to your serve.

• Serve to the Weakness: As identified in the warm-up, serve to their weaker side, especially on big points.

• Exploit Their Position: If your opponent stands far back to receive your serve, use a slice serve to pull them wide and low, opening up the court. If they stand close to the baseline, try a kick serve up high to their chest, disrupting their timing.

Always Have a “Plan B” Strategy

A good match player never sticks to one plan if it’s not working. Top players constantly adapt.

If your initial strategy (e.g., targeting the backhand) isn’t causing errors, switch it up:

• Change the Pace: Start hitting softer, higher balls (moonballs) to break their rhythm, then suddenly flatten out your shots.

• Attack the Net: If your opponent likes to stand far back, use the drop shot or follow up an aggressive approach shot to pressure them at the net.

Sharpen Your Game with Meehan Tennis Academy

By implementing these simple analytical strategies, you move beyond just hitting balls and start truly playing tennis. You’ll be in control of the point, forcing your opponent to react to your game plan.

Ready to take your game strategy and tactics to the next level? The coaches at Meehan Tennis Academy can help you apply these principles in real-time match situations!

Contact us today to explore our programs and sharpen your tactical game!

The holiday season is here! With school winding down and festive commitments piling up, it’s easy to let your training routine slide. While rest is important, the long break can lead to a drop in fitness and skill known as “detraining.” At Meehan Tennis Academy, we want to help you enjoy the holidays without losing the progress you’ve worked so hard for all year.

Here are four smart, flexible ways to keep your game sharp and step back onto the court next year ready to go!

Focus on Fun, Low-Intensity Footwork

While the formal coaching program takes a week long break, please remember that the courts remain open and accessible for casual hitting and practice. Take advantage of the extra daylight hours and court availability!

• Mini-Ladder Drills: Use chalk, tape, or even towels to mark out an agility ladder on your driveway or lawn. Spend 10 minutes a day focusing on quick steps, two-in/two-out, and side shuffles. This maintains explosive power and coordination.

• Shadow Swings: Practice your technique in front of a mirror. Focus on repeating your forehand, backhand, and serve motions slowly and deliberately. This helps reinforce muscle memory and prevent technical flaws from creeping in when you’re under pressure.

Prioritise Simple Strength and Conditioning

You don’t need a gym full of equipment. Your body weight and a small space are enough to maintain your tennis-specific fitness.

• Core Work: Planks, Russian twists, and crunches are essential for stability and power transfer when hitting the ball. Dedicate 5-7 minutes daily to core strength.

• Leg Power: Lunges (forward and lateral) and single-leg squats help mimic the explosive movements and balance required on the court. Remember, stronger legs mean more power and speed!

Maintain Racquet Feel 

The feel of the racquet and the ability to control it are the first things to disappear over a long break.

• Wall Practice: Find a sturdy wall or a smooth brick area and spend time hitting your old tennis balls against it. This is a fantastic, low-stakes way to work on rhythm, consistency, and maintaining soft hands.

• The Golden Rule of Gear: Remember our advice on equipment care? The Christmas break is often hot. Never leave your racquet in the car. Store it in a cool, dry place to protect the frame and string tension, ensuring it’s ready for high performance when you return.

Stay Hydrated and Fuelled 

The holidays involve plenty of feasts and treats, but don’t forget your athlete’s nutrition and hydration needs.

• Hydration is Key: Hot summer weather means extra water intake. Always have a water bottle handy and aim to keep your body properly hydrated, even on non-training days.

• Smart Snacking: Balance the festive snacks with high-protein options and fresh fruits to maintain energy levels and support muscle recovery.

The Small Effort that Makes a Big Difference

The holiday season should be enjoyed, but protecting your tennis investment—both your gear and your hard-earned skills—is paramount. Remember that even small, consistent efforts like 10 minutes of footwork or a quick wall session can make a huge difference in preventing detraining and maintaining your muscle memory.

When you step back on court with us in the New Year, you’ll feel more confident, stay focused, and be ready to pick up right where you left off.

Stay sharp, play smart, and we look forward to seeing you back on court!