If Wimbledon 2024 is on your bucket list but you haven’t yet secured your tickets, this V-VIP experience will deliver not only a guaranteed seat on the show courts of The All England Lawn Tennis Club this summer but also a culinary journey that is quite literally impossible to recreate…

January 2024 saw the closure of one of London’s iconic restaurants, Le Gavroche, which the legendary Roux brothers had opened in 1967, prompting a pouring of sympathy & memories from happy diners who’d had the pleasure of sitting down at the Mayfair stalwart. Now, in an collaboration, Le Gavroche will be opening it’s doors once again…. at Wimbledon 2024.

Keith Prowse, Wimbledon’s Official Hospitality Partner, have announced the launch of ‘Le Gavroche at The Lawn’. This exclusive package – exuding elegance from the tasting menu, to Sommelier-paired wines, to it’s private balcony overlooking a tennis club – combines the last few guaranteed Centre Court tickets for The Championships, Wimbledon 2024 – and on the day of your choosing, subject to availability.

The 5*+ experience on offer includes:

• Tasting ‘Menu Exceptionnel’, specially crafted by Le Gavroche
• Each dish paired with fine wines selected by their resident Sommelier
• Lunch is completed by a visit from the world famous Le Gavroche cheese trolley
• Bespoke afternoon tea
• Complimentary bar featuring premium spirits and vintage champagne
• Tables of 2, 4 or 6 surrounded by historic artwork and artifacts from both Le Gavroche and Wimbledon’s Museum archives
• From £2,305 PP + VAT > Book Now

To reserve this unique opportunity, enjoyed in a space emulating that of its Mayfair predecessor yet with select SW19 styling, you must hurry as the limited number of places are expected to be snapped up within hours. Book now here!

The history of Le Gavroche and the relationship between Keith Prowse and Wimbledon has been intertwined for over half a century.

For us, this collaboration highlights a relentless passion to raise standards and to offer tennis fans something very, very special at the world’s most prestigious tennis tournament, making this a uniquely memorable experience not be missed.

Usama Al-Qassab, Marketing and Commercial Director at The All England Lawn Tennis Club, commented: “We are delighted to welcome Michel Roux and ‘Le Gavroche at The Lawn’ to The Championships 2024. Working closely with our Official Hospitality Partner Keith Prowse, our ambition is to provide guests with a range of fine dining experiences at Wimbledon, and we are confident the addition of this exceptional menu from ‘Le Gavroche at The Lawn’ will be warmly welcomed.”

For more information on ‘Le Gavroche at The Lawn’ visit the Keith Prowse website or give them a call to discuss in person, on 02033 938 795.

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Global tennis footwear brand ASICS have announced a new online tennis event exploring a variety of topics, from coaching and playing tips, to the mental benefits of physical exercise to tips for tennis content creation

The February 1st event has been organised by the ASICS Tennis Academy, a community of more than 200 tennis coaches across Europe, located France, Spain, Italy, Belgium, the Netherlands and Germany. ASICS have said “Whether you are a tennis coach, tennis player, a tennis fan or a content creator, our ASICS Tennis Academy Webinar is free, and open to all.”

The list of event speakers includes a wide range of expertise and skills that will be offering advice and support to anyone keen to improve their knowledge of the game. Some of the speakers included are:

Alex Corretja: Spanish former professional tennis player and ASICS athlete, who won the Tour Finals in 1998, reached a career-high singles ranking of World No. 2 in 1999 and played a key role in helping Spain win its first Davis Cup title in 2000. Currently part of Eurosport’s team of expert consultants, he will be taking you through the ASICS Tennis Academy Webinar as our host of honor.

Thomas Johansson: Swedish retired professional player on the ATP Tour, who won a Grand Slam title at the Australian Open and reached a career high of World No. 7 in 2002. He converted into coaching the likes of Caroline Wozniacki, Borna Coric, Maria Sakkari, Filip Krajinovic and David Goffin. Currently coaching Sorana Cirstea on the WTA Tour, Thomas is one of the few to have coached both men and women’s professional tennis players.

Dr. Brendon Stubbs: A physiotherapist and acclaimed mental health researcher focused on the impact of physical activity on mental health. He is one of the most cited researchers (top 1%) in the world and his research has been featured in publications like the New York Times, TIME magazine, Forbes, CNN, BBC News, ITV News and Sky News. His recently published European Psychiatric Association guidelines provide invaluable insight into the use of exercise for mental health.

Ashley Neaves: Founder of The Tennis Mentor. Director & Coach at The Avenue Tennis. Coach Education Tutor. 18 years of coaching experience working with players from club level to National champions, and competitors on the ITF tour.

The event schedule includes sessions on ‘Coaching at a top level’, ‘How tennis can uplift your mind’ and ‘The importance of wearing the right gear for performance and injury prevention’.

‘Elevate your game at the ASICS Tennis Academy Webinar and learn from the best coaches in the game!

To claim your free place visit the event booking site

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The post Free tennis webinar aims to attract coaches, players and fans appeared first on Tennishead.

She’s the reigning US Open champion and undoubtedly the most exciting player in women’s tennis right now, and you can own a piece of her history by winning a racket signed by Coco Gauff

The HEAD speed is endorsed by none other than Novak Djokovic and the latest version has been upgraded with new Auxetic 2.0 technology for sensational, softer feel.

We’ve teamed up with our friends from HEAD to offer one lucky winner a HEAD Graphene 360 Speed MP signed by Coco Gauff.

To be in with a chance of winning this superb prize just answer the question below and fill in your details. Good luck to you all!

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Gabe Jaramillo has an intrinsic insight into the world of a professional tennis player having trained and developed eleven World No. 1, and twenty-seven “top 10” players, and coached players in all four Grand Slams. 

Gabe’s written this article exclusively for Tennishead to offer an expert opinion on the evolving row over the tennis balls being used on the professional tennis circuit and their impact on player’s bodies. …

“In the fiercely competitive realm of tennis, where every serve, volley, and rally can tip the scales of victory, an unsettling discord resonates among players—a discontent that echoes from the amateur courts to the grand stages of professional tournaments. At the heart of this disquiet lies a complex web of issues surrounding the regulation of tennis balls, where the game’s very essence is entangled in the inconsistencies of ball specifications and the divergent paths charted by different manufacturers.

“In the quest for excellence and fairness, official bodies such as the International Tennis Federation (ITF) have meticulously crafted stringent standards for tennis balls. Yet, the harmony sought on the court is disrupted by a chorus of valid concerns raised by players. Within the confines of the same tournament or between matches, players bear witness to unsettling variations in weight, size, and bounce, challenging the very foundation of uniformity championed by the sport’s governing bodies.

“This discord reaches its peak when considering the intricate dance of tournaments, each negotiating the procurement of tennis balls amidst the allure of sponsorships, advertising deals, and financial considerations. In this high-stakes game, the pursuit of lucrative agreements occasionally exacts a toll on the quality of tennis balls, casting shadows that extend beyond the pristine white lines and influence the outcomes of matches.

“Amidst this unpredictable terrain, tournaments source balls from diverse manufacturers, leading to a diverse array of characteristics that define each brand. This lack of standardization disrupts players’ endeavors to consistently adapt their game, for they have honed specific playing styles based on individual strengths and preferences. The challenge intensifies as distinct ball types converge with varied playing surfaces, compelling players to grapple with ever-changing behaviors that cast shadows on the trajectory of their game.

“Yet, the discord extends beyond strategic and performance implications, pulsating through the very fibers of players’ physical well-being. The rapid adjustments demanded by differing ball characteristics—be it hold, speed, or bounce—elevate the specter of injuries, particularly targeting wrists and shoulders. The thundering pace of fast balls on unforgiving hard courts demands lightning-quick movements and abrupt halts, amplifying stress on players’ joints. Meanwhile, the languid trajectory of slower balls on clay courts extends rallies, induces fatigue, and magnifies the risk of overuse injuries.

“In the corridors of tennis, where precision and finesse reign supreme, the call for greater standardization of ball specifications emerges as a rallying cry. This narrative, woven with the threads of discontent, strategic intricacies, and genuine physical concerns, forms the tapestry of a sport in search of equilibrium—a call to ensure that every serve, every match, is a fair and unencumbered test of skill.”

More about the author, Gabe Jaramillo

Gabe’s the Founder of his own tennis academy in Florida called Rush Premier Sports and is a prolific writer about all aspects of tennis coaching including a book titled ‘How to Make Champions’.

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The post Exclusive: Unraveling the tennis ball dilemma – Shadows, standards, and the quest for fair play appeared first on Tennishead.

The top four seeds in the men’s draw at the 2024 Australian Open all moved through to the second round, but they didn’t have it all their own way.

Let’s look at the key takeaways from their matches and identify what went well and where they struggled.

With the help of Craig O’Shannessy of Brain Game Tennis, Tennishead analyses 4 fascinating encounters for the biggest names in the Australian Open men’s singles draw.

(1) Novak Djokovic def. Dino Prizmic 6-2, 6-7(5), 6-3, 6-4

One of the most challenging tasks in today’s game is to get the upper hand against the world No. 1 from the back of the court. That’s precisely what the 18-year-old Croatian accomplished in their opening round slug fest on Rod Laver Arena.

Djokovic only managed to win 47.9% (70/146) of his baseline points, which was the main reason this match was so tight. Djokovic could only win a lowly 42.2% (38/90) of his baseline points in the second and third sets combined.

Prizmic actually won a higher percentage of his baseline points than Djokovic, at 49.4% (78/158). Prizmic won long rallies of 9+ shots 34-28 and clubbed 15 forehand winners to Djokovic’s 13.

Prizmic is the real deal. His baseline dominance against the world’s premier baseliner was incredibly impressive – a player to watch for the future.

(2) Carlos Alcaraz def. Richard Gasquet 7-6(5), 6-1, 6-2

This match was all about the opening set. Gasquet saved all nine break points he faced, primarily by making eight first serves and keeping the point short. Seven of the nine break points were three shots or less, with the Frenchman forcing four return errors in these crucial moments.

Alcaraz coughed up 38 groundstroke errors in set one, which is why the opening stanza was so close. He only committed 33 total groundstroke errors in the second and third sets combined. Gasquet got within two points of winning the opening set with Alcaraz serving at 5-6, 30-30, but the Spaniard clubbed an ace and then forced a backhand error, and the match quickly unraveled from there.

(3) Daniil Medvedev def. Terence Atmane 5-7, 6-2, 6-4, 1-0 (ret)

This was far from straightforward for the former Australian Open champion, as Medvedev had to endure cramps on his way to a tough victory in sweltering conditions.

Atmane took advantage of Medvedev’s deep return position, especially in the ad court, where the lefty hit his impressive can-opener out wide with great success. The Frenchman kept Medvedev off balance by coming forward to finish points at net (won 20/37) and yanked Medvedev in with deft drop shots.

(4) Jannick Sinner def. Botic Van de Zandschulp 6-4, 7-5, 6-3

Sinner is a “first-strike” machine these days as he elevated his game at the end of 2024 to reach the final of ATP Finals, win the Davis Cup, and ascend to No. 4 in the world. He crushed the Dutchman in short rallies in Melbourne in round one.

Points Won By Rally Length

• 0-4 Shots: Sinner 70/Van de Zandschulp 55 = +15
• 5-8 Shots: Sinner 24/Van de Zandschulp 19 = +5
• 9+ Shots: Sinner 12/Van de Zandschulp 15 = -3

The average rally length was 4.6 shots; the shorter the rally, the better for the Italian. Both players managed 26 winners each from the baseline, but Sinner only yielded 63 errors, while Van de Zandschulp committed 80.

This was an ideal hit-out for Sinner in the opening round as his opponent pushed him just enough, but nothing too stressful.

For free access to Craig O’Shannessy’s complete courses on ‘25 Golden Rules of Singles‘ and ‘25 Golden Rules of Doubles‘, join thousands of other keen amateur tennis players and become a member of the Tennishead Club. Once you join we’ll immediately send you ground breaking coaching advice, a welcome pack including a full ASICS head to toe outfit including shoes, plus loads more. And it costs as little as £79/$99 to join with membership benefits worth over £600/$700 per year!

Craig O’Shannessy is the creator of Brain Game Tennis. For 20 years he’s been involved in tennis as a coach to players like Kevin Anderson and even Dustin Brown when he famously beat Rafa Nadal at Wimbledon. More recently Craig’s been working as a match analyst at Wimbledon and for the ATP Tour. He has also used the unique insights from his match analysis software dartfish to guide players such as Novak Djokovic with analysis of opponents and performances.

Visit BrainGameTennis.com to read the latest and best selling course ‘Getting Tight’ where Craig teams up with Jeff Greenwald to combine their specific skill sets to help you with the universal problem all players struggle with in matches.

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The post Australian Open top seeds haven’t had it easy reveals strategy expert appeared first on Tennishead.

Relax in 5* luxury as you enjoy the best men’s tennis can offer thanks to our Queens Club tennis 2024 free prize draw including premium tickets and incredible hospitality in the exclusive Roof Garden with a sumptuous 3 course lunch, afternoon tea and unlimited drinks for two and we’ll throw in £500 towards your travel or hotel expenses.

Queen’s is one of the most enjoyable and luxurious grass court tournaments every summer featuring the World’s best players including Carlos Alcaraz, Holger Rune and Andy Murray and now you and a friend can be there simply by entering your details below.

The prize includes:

• Queens Club tennis tickets hospitality package for 2 people on Sunday 23rd June, 2024 (Finals day)
• Centre Court ‘East Stand’ all day tickets, including seats which are wider with more leg room and padded for additional comfort
• Guest passes to the award-winning Roof Garden luxury dining and entertaining suite
• A three-course lunch and afternoon tea
• A selection of beer and wines for self service, topped up throughout your day
• Access to an outdoor terrace overlooking the practice courts
• £500 spending money

**Every entrant to this incredible free prize draw will receive a FREE copy of the current issue of Tennishead magazine worth £8.50/$10**

This is an exclusive Tennishead prize draw which we’ve funded ourselves meaning there are no other partners involved and we don’t need to make it a competition.

The prize package comes from Keith Prowse Hospitality who are also the exclusive hospitality partner for Wimbledon and Eastbourne and are renowned for delivering 5* quality and service.

To be entered in the draw just fill in the details below. Your free copy of Tennishead magazine will be emailed immediately you’ve submitted your entry.

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A less publicised but important benefit of purchasing a hospitality experience at Wimbledon is the work of the Wimbledon Foundation, which receives funding from every ticket sale.

The Wimbledon Foundation’s Health & Wellbeing Fund is giving £1 million over the next five years to charities that focus on helping people most at risk of health and wellbeing issues – and Keith Prowse, the Official Hospitality Partner of The Championships, have been generously donating £5 to the Foundation for every ticket they sell (and believe us, they sell out like hotcakes – with Wimbledon 2024 packages already now sold out, but more may become available soon).

The Wimbledon Foundation’s Health & Wellbeing Fund partners focus on supporting vulnerable people living in the Merton and Wandsworth boroughs which is where The All England Lawn Tennis Club, home to The Championships, is located. Some of those residents supported by the fund then go on to engage with the world’s most famous tennis club on an even greater level through the Foundation’s ‘Work at Wimbledon’ scheme which supports local people facing barriers to employment to access jobs at The Championships.

Keith Prowse is fully committed to helping the Wimbledon Foundation change people’s lives. By buying official, you are directly helping to support the powerful work of the amazing charities that receive funding from the Wimbledon Foundation.

The 9 charities currently supported by the fund are:

• CARAS (Community Action for Refugees and Asylum Seekers)
• Catch22
• Community Drug and Alcohol Recovery Services (CDARS)
• Free2B Alliance
• Merton Vision
• Off the Record Youth Counselling
• Regenerate
• Thrive
• Wandsworth Community Empowerment Network (WCEN)

If a day of Michelin Star luxury and informal socialising at Wimbledon is what you desire, then an award-winning hospitality experience from Keith Prowse is a guaranteed option to make sure you have the most memorable of days out – and one of the only ways to guarantee your court and day of choice during the Wimbledon Fortnight, when stock allows!

Due to the high demand of these packages, 2024 is ALREADY now pretty much sold out – however, as mentioned, there may be some more availability come the New Year – so if you want to get a place on the tennis world’s most desired waitlist then head on over to Keith Prowse’s Wimbledon website to learn more, and hit the ‘Enquire’ button – and sign up to their ‘subscriber perks’ newsletter.

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The lightest model in the ASICS tennis shoe range, the Solution Speed FF3, has received a full revamp including new technologies that have ‘blown away’ world No.17 Belinda Bencic.

Japanese footwear and apparel brand ASICS are continuing their impressive record of regular technological enhancements for their premium tennis shoe range by announcing the launch of the 3rd iteration of the Solution Speed, the FF3 model.

Designed to favour attacking all-court players, the Solution Speed is considerably lighter than the other two models in the ASICS tennis shoe range, the Gel Resolution and the Court FF. This lightness combined with the shoe’s updated SPEEDTRUSS technology gives the flexibility needed to move freely.

“With each new product we launch, we start from the core pillars of the ASICS design philosophy. ASICS uses athlete wear testing, biomechanical science, recycled materials and decades of continuous innovation to create products that feel best for both body and mind,” said Tatsuya Ishikawa, Global Product Manager, Tennis Footwear. “Solution Speed FF3 is a great testament to this process, and we are confident it will be a game-changer for the speedy all-court player.”

Launching on January 15th, 2024, the shoe features ‘Precision-Sole’ technology “derived from the fact that it is the precise amount of material needed to have the optimal grip, without adding unnecessary weight,” say ASICS.

ASICS invested heavily in the design process over the past two years and in fact Tennishead CLUB members were involved in prototype testing and feeding back for this model. ASICS were able to to reduce the amount of rubber, one of the heaviest parts of a shoe, without losing grip on the court, then they applied a unique pattern, which is a combination of advanced technology and Japanese craftsmanship.

For the first time in a tennis shoe, the upper features a “newly developed engineered woven mesh, designed for more breathability and comfort than previous models, but still durable using a thick woven material.”

World No.12 Alex de Minaur was integral in the design process for the new Solution Speed FF3. “It was a great process, to be able to give my feedback on how to improve a very good shoe already. They delivered what I needed, more flexibility and a lighter feel, but also some serious evolution with the PRECISON-SOLE outsole. It just shows the attention to detail ASICS always have when creating new tennis shoes, and that is why they are the best for me.”

The ASICS Solution Speed FF3 will be available to new Tennishead CLUB members from January 2024 as the key benefit in our unique virtual tennis club. Find out more.

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The post Alex de Minaur salutes ‘best in the game’ new ASICS Solution Speed FF3 tennis shoe appeared first on Tennishead.

The much trodden path for aspiring tennis players is well documented. Head to a sun soaked tennis factory, play tennis under the watchful eye of a famous coach for 6 hours a day and hey presto! But for coaches themselves there was never the support program in place to help them learn their trade and achieve their career goals. That was until the ASICS Tennis Academy came along.

Launched in 2020, the ASICS Tennis Academy (ATA) aims to ’empower tennis coaches of all levels’. Existing virtually with regular online meet-ups and live events, the academy currently supports coaches from 6 European tennis playing nations with more being added. Coaches can apply to join or ASICS will use their team in each country to identify and invite prospective members.

Tennis coaching can be lonely with a lot of those working as coaches being self employed and having to stand on their own feet as they learn their trade and grow their businesses. Other tennis brands will offer coaches deals to help provide kit but no brand has ever put in place a support network that is focussed on helping coaches grow their knowledge and experience in this way.

We spoke to ASICS Tennis Academy manager Louis Rouach and also to ATA member Harrison Lombe about the history of the academy and their experience.

Why did you launch the ASICS Tennis Academy (ATA)?

Thomas Johansson is a member of the ATA

Louis Roach (LR): “The plan behind the ATA was to support tennis coaches both on and off court.

“Firstly, we researched tennis coaches from around Europe about their specific needs and to understand the support they received from other brands in terms of equipment, but also off court support. From the research we realised that existing coach-brand relationships are very contractual and based just around equipment.

“The ATA has done well in creating a European community of tennis coaches that is connected and shares knowledge. Tennis is very individualistic but we want to create links between coaches from many different countries and levels of coaching. The ATA is not just about elite coaching as we want to help coaches who teach from beginner right up to the likes of Thomas Johannson, Danilo Pizzorno, Ruben Hidalgo, Jordi Vilaro and Richard Ruckelhausen (formerly coach of Gael Monfils).

“We believe that if we can support the ‘everyday’ club tennis coach then we can help to grow the game and help coaches and players to improve.”

What are the benefits of being a coach with the ATA?

LR: “ATA is about being part of an international community with access to other tennis coaches who you can talk with a share thoughts, ideas but also players. We have coaches that we have helped to exchange players.

“We also have Facebook and WhatsApp groups within each country for the coaches to share knowledge and we’ve arranged events for the same reason, such as webinars. These training sessions involve sharing programs, tips and expertise on all areas of tennis coaching from mental, to physical, to social media and online understanding that can help the coach improve not only their on court work but also their off court lives and business.

“It’s a unique program that we haven’t seen anywhere else or even in other sports.”

What’s been the most interesting learnings since starting the ATA?

LR: “We’ve found it fascinating to see coaches within the ATA exchanging players. We know that and individual sport like tennis will always create rivalries but by having the ATA as an international group then you lose the concern over sharing secrets with your competitor coach or player.”

How have you recruited the ATA coaches?

LR: “We started small through our existing ASICS community managers in each country who had existing relationship with coaches. We needed coaches who were willing to give their time and expertise rather than just wanting to receive equipment from ASICS.

“The ATA has now grown and this increased visibility has meant coaches knocking on our door wanting to join our program. Now from January-March each year we are open to applications from any coach from France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Belgium or The Netherlands then we’ll launch in the UK in early 2024.”

What’s the profile of an ATA coach?

LR: “We have a diverse profile of coaches in our academy. A lot of coaches are from clubs who want to improve themselves so that they can be more effective in coaching club players. We are also trying to promote the interests of female tennis coaches around Europe as we see that as something which isn’t catered for particularly well at the moment.

“We also look to recruit coaches who are strong influencers on social media as this helps to get the message out about ATA to a wider cohort.

“We have high visibility coaches who are working with tour level players on the ATP and WTA Tours such as Thomas Johansson. We really like when we see these tour level coaches on the ATA chatting with club coaches about their work because it creates an unexpected level of community sharing.”

Have ASICS been using the ATA to learn about tennis shoes and other products which can help your main business requirements?

LR: “100% we have. ATA coaches are asked to help with feedback on our products by testing our new shoes and apparel. We need feedback not only from top level players but also from everyday club players as they are the ones that will be wearing our products, and the ATA coaches have been really helpful with this.

“We have a clearly defined feedback loop where the ATA coaches can talk to the community manager in their country who can then direct that feedback to ASICS own product development team. This might be for a one-off product issue or we might have a recurring occurrence that needs to be fixed by our designers in Japan, which all helps to give us an edge over our competition.”

Why are you now looking to launch the ATA in the UK and what about the USA?

LR: “We’ve been looking at the UK for quite a while. We now have the resources in the UK which means we are set up with the necessary manpower to get the ATA UK live in 2024.

“ATA has been launched as a European initiative but we are having discussions with all other regions such as Japan and the USA but we have to learn the best ways of working in those countries before we can extend the ATA outside of Europe.”

Harrison Lombe is an ATA coach member. He was a professional player himself then turned to coaching and is based at the Barcelona Total Tennis academy. He started by coaching the juniors at the club and then worked his way up to become a travelling coach working with the professional players linked to his Barcelona academy. He is now working exclusively as the coach for Rebeka Masarova who is currently ranked No.64 in the World.

What’s the main differences between coaching a top professional like Rebeka Masarova versus coaching at a tennis club with amateurs?

Harrison Lombe (HL): “With a top player it’s very different. They already know what they need to do and so there is much less screaming at them to motivate them, like I have to with the juniors I’ve worked with in the past!

“Pros have a lot of input in their own training so we can have a conversation about what they need to practise and learn. The relationship you have with a player is also a big part of the coaching so you can help them to be in the best mindset when they are competing. The mental side of the game at the top levels of tennis is so huge so as a coach it’s important that you give them the belief that they can win. A quote I love is that it’s ‘the one who believes more is the one who’s going to win’, so if your player has the right plan then they can come out the other side with a win whereas at the junior level of coaching it’s quite different.”

What’s the difference in your coaching style between being at a tournament with your player and being on the practise court

HL: “I like to take what I’ve learned from watching them play their tournament matches and apply that to the practise court. A pro player like Rebeka knows how to hit the ball. She’s No.64 in the world! So we work on finding her best mental space and working on the best tactics to push for that 1% improvement which, at her level, makes the difference between winning and losing.”

Why did you want to get involved with the ASICS Tennis Academy?

HL: “When we were approached by ASICS I was excited because I always wore ASICS shoes when I was a player. Now with the program that the ATA provides I’ve been able to get to know other coaches from around the World and I still talk to them and have made friends with them. I can use their insights to help my own work and push myself forward. And the ASICS brand mantra of ‘Sound Mind, Sound Body’ really resonates in my tennis work and also in my life, so it’s a perfect brand to represent.”

What does it involve when you engage with other ATA coaches?

HL: “I’ve attended a live event for the ATA in Paris which was interesting as I met coaches from different backgrounds. From the sessions we attended I noticed coaches using different techniques and in tennis you can always be learning. I’ve then connected on social media with the other coaches from the ATA.”

Coaching can be lonely so does the ATA help you feel part of a community?

HL: “The way ASICS has helped form this group of coaches means I have colleagues now that I can talk to about anything, right away. I like to learn something new so having other coaches that I can talk to online or at events is great.”

How much impact do you believe equipment has on a tennis player’s game?

HL: “As a coach you definitely get involved in the equipment that your player uses. Players want everything to be perfect and with ASICS we’re lucky that they produce three different models of shoe to suit different playing styles. I think choosing the right equipment is hugely important and it definitely effects performance. You see many pro players are wearing ASICS shoes even if they aren’t sponsored to wear them because they feel they are the best tennis shoe available.”

What would you say are the benefits to club coaches of being part of the ASICS Tennis Academy?

HL: “Joining a community that you can call upon to help you become a better coach. I’m one a few coaches in the ATA that are coaching high level players, so for the other coaches to be able to draw upon our knowledge is a huge benefit. As a tennis coach you have to take any help you can to improve your own work. I love stealing ideas from other coaches so having the ATA really helps in providing ideas and tips and advice from all levels of coach.

“Making connections around the world is also great. If you ever need something as a coach in another country then you can find a coach through the ATA in that country who you can ask for help.”

If you are a coach or club that wants to get involved with the ASICS Tennis Academy then applications are open from January to March each year and you can be kept up to date by following @ASICStennis or by emailing Louis.

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From June 24-29 2024, you and your lucky friends could experience the ‘WOW’ factor and indulge in a full day of luxury hospitality with tickets at the Rothesay International Eastbourne combined ATP & WTA tennis event, the Summer’s most intimate tennis tournament, and the best part is that this special gift costs as little as £185 + VAT per person.

A British summer wouldn’t be complete without a trip to the coast for some classic grass court tennis, but gone are the days of packing your own sandwiches and waiting in line for a ticket in row Z. The Rothesay International Eastbourne is now a critical stop for the world’s best players on their grass court odyssey as they battle it out in the stunning surroundings of Devonshire Park, situated by Eastbourne’s picturesque beachfront.

Exclusive hospitality provider, Keith Prowse, have upped the ante by introducing two luxurious ‘ticket & hospitality’ offerings that score high on quality but low on price enabling tennis fans to enjoy Eastbourne’s intimacy with the guarantee of the best seats and a 5* culinary experience without breaking the bank.

Guests can choose from the ‘Love Fifteen’ option which features:

• Bucks fizz reception
• Brunch and lunch buffets
• Traditional afternoon tea
• Beer, wine and soft drinks inclusive
• Official Centre Court South Stand ticket, directly behind the baseline
• From £185PP + VAT
• BUY NOW

Or guests can pay that little extra and enjoy the ‘Sky Lounge’:

• Located within the Centre Court building
• Views across Centre and No.1 Court from your table
• Welcome drink reception with canapés
• Seasonal 3 course á la carte menu
• Complimentary bar of Pimm’s, beer, wines & soft drinks
• Suite to seat access with West Stand tickets
• From £325PP + VAT
• BUY NOW

The seats and space around the outside courts at Devonshire Park, the timeless venue for the Rothesay International Eastbourne, make you feel truly part of the action and don’t be surprised if you find yourself rubbing shoulders with your idol as the players adopt a relaxed attitude to fan engagement.

Held since 1974, the event is a WTA 500 series and an ATP 250 series with past winners including Novak Djokovic and Caroline Wozniacki. 2023 saw two new names added to the roll of honour in Francisco Cerundolo and Madison Keys who will no doubt be returning to defend their crowns alongside the young superstar Coco Gauff after her clinching her maiden Slam at the US Open.

For us, the great value for money compared to other similar events, the ease of purchase and the friendly atmosphere within your hospitality areas make this an option to be very carefully considered when planning your tennis calendar this year.

For more information on VIP experiences with Keith Prowse at the Rothesay International Eastbourne in 2024, visit the Keith Prowse website or give them a call to discuss in person, on 02033 938 795.

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The post Give the gift of affordable luxury with a Rothesay International Eastbourne tennis experience appeared first on Tennishead.