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 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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Rafa Nadal, Carlos Alcaraz and Andy Murray all thrived on their experience but behind the glamorous stories of success, what’s life really like for the thousands of aspiring professionals who find themselves living and learning at a tennis academy?

When asked to think about a tennis academy, if your imagination conjures up a scene of endless rows of tennis courts with children being shouted at by a muscular taskmaster in 100% Floridian humidity, then you aren’t alone. And maybe a few decades ago you might have found places similar to that as the whole industry behind producing tennis players was in its infancy, but fast forward to the present day and, as we’ve discovered, tennis academies aren’t just about manufacturing the next World No.1. They offer a holistic focus on an alternative path to a fulfilling life for young adults wanting to blend their passion for the sport with an education and life experiences they wouldn’t find at home.

The Ljubicic Tennis Academy in Croatia and the Rush Premier Sports academy in Florida, USA, are examples of modern day, highly professional tennis academies who’s objective is to offer young players the structure and resources they need on a full time basis to achieve their goals in the sport.

Tennis academy’s come with a full support team

Helping the player to achieve what they want, rather than what someone else thinks they should be able to achieve, is a theme that stands out from our discussions with everyone involved at both these academies.

In fact every academy we’ve researched seems at pains to stress that it’s about guiding, mentoring and channeling the player’s passion towards a carefully defined goal that is their focus. Obviously these organisations have to be run as profitable businesses hence why they won’t say, “we’ll make you the next Wimbledon champion”, as that would severely reduce their pool of potential customers, but it’s encouraging to see that the focus seems to be on helping the player achieve what’s best for them rather than a pre-conceived measure of success.

Colton trains under the watchful eye of Gabe Jaramillo at the RPS academy. He told us he “wanted to improve as fast as possible and the number of high-level players I could train with every day at an academy made it a no-brainer if I wanted to get better”. Jaramillo has a CV boasting the likes of Andre Agassi, Maria Sharapova and Pete Sampras but, whilst the Rush Premier Sports philosophy is focussed on competition, they are also very proud that 100% of their students have received an athletic or academic scholarship to an American University.

This focus on helping students develop themselves not just as a tennis player but with skills and experiences they can call on throughout their lives is something the Ljubicic Academy are also at pains to stress. “The spirit of our academy is founded on instilling strong values, building character, and fostering a passion for the sport.”

Luna Vujović is a 13 year old Serbian who’s been training and living at the Ljubicic Academy, on the secluded, picturesque Adriatic island of Veli Losinj, for the past 2 years.

Luna, the current 14U European champion, says she didn’t have any expectations before joining the academy but very quickly started seeing the benefits in her game and results. She says for anyone considering joining a tennis academy, “expect a lot of hard work, discipline, sacrifice but also to meet a lot of new friends and to grow as a player and as a person.”

These sentiments are backed by the ccademy themselves. “As Luna’s journey unfolds, we stand by her side, supporting her every step of the way. Her success shines a bright light on Ljubicic Tennis Academy’s commitment to nurturing talent and creating a supportive environment where young players can thrive and reach their full potential.”

Day to day at a tennis academy

Life at an academy revolves around tennis and the multiple facets of training that are all necessary to help create a modern day professional tennis player. Everything from technique, psychology, diet, cardiovascular fitness, strength and agility are covered in minute detail using programmes that are specifically designed for each individual. Then education has to be fitted into a very busy and structured daily routine.

“Living full time at an academy is not an easy task. You miss your family and friends, you miss your country, and you even miss your food. However, when you made a commitment to come to the academy to train and get an education that will open the doors in the future to what your goals are, the task become part of the day to day achievement” says Giorgio, another student at the RPS set up in Florida.

No-one is on their own at an academy

Originally from Canada, Giorgio says that the decision to attend was taken jointly by him and his parents but it was the reputation of academy founder Jaramillo that made up their minds. “Gabe is a very well known tennis coach and both my parents and I wanted to be trained with the best coach and methodology that has proven to make Champions.”

Krish, another of Jaramillo’s students points out that managing the different elements of academy life has been his biggest challenge. “At first it was to keep up with my grades (that was hardest) but also staying on track with my tennis progress as well. At first it was hard to balance everything that was going on all at once, with grades, tennis and my personal life but after a while I got the hang of it and everything started to get easier.”

Educational requirements are either delivered through a traditional ‘bricks and mortar’ on-site school, as in the case of the RPS Academy who have 18 teaches working full time, or via online learning which is the model preferred by the Ljubicic Academy.

Seelenbinder is a parent of a child attending the Ljubicic Academy, founded by World No.3 and former coach to Roger Federer, Ivan Ljubicic.

Asked for a parents point of view on the changes they’ve seen in their child since joining the academy, she said,

“The most positive experiences revolve around the supportive and nurturing environment. Seeing our child’s growth and development as a player has been incredibly rewarding. The academy has not only honed his skills but also instilled a sense of discipline and resilience in him. Additionally, the camaraderie and friendships that our child has formed with fellow aspiring tennis players have been heartwarming. The academy fosters a sense of community and belonging, which has been beneficial for his social development.

“Furthermore, the opportunities to participate in various international tournaments have been an invaluable experience. These have allowed our child to test his skills against a diverse range of players and have also provided us with cherished memories as we travel and support him together as a family.

“Overall, the academy has been a place where our child’s passion for tennis has been nurtured and celebrated, and the experiences we’ve had there have been overwhelmingly positive.”

Tennis academy commitment

A full year as a residential student at the Croatian Ljubicic Academy costs around €50,000 which includes everything from tennis coaching & training, fitness work, accommodation, meals and physiotherapy with a similar package at the Rush Premier Sports academy in the USA costing around $65,000.

Hard work is the order of the day

Not all players pay the full amount as academies normally have scholarship programs which offer discounted rates depending on the circumstances of each student.

The decision to attend an academy, especially in a different country, is obviously one that imposes immense lifestyle changes on the child and the family.

“We took this decision as a family including our child which meant a significant change for our family dynamics. I live with my son full-time at the academy (in Croatia) to support his training, while my husband remains at home (in Africa) to manage his business activities. He visits us whenever possible and travels with us to various tournaments throughout Europe. This arrangement ensures that our son has the support he needs while also maintaining continuity in his training and familial connections.” says one parent.

Making the decision to join a tennis academy

As you’d expect, when we asked the question as to how the family made the decision to make the step into full time academy life and how they chose the specific academy the answers were wide ranging covering every factor that such a decision involves.

Family life can be dramatically changed

One parent of a child at the Ivan Ljubicic owned academy said, “Our advice would be to thoroughly research and evaluate the academy’s offerings, ethos, and track record. Ensure that the academy aligns with your child’s goals and has a supportive environment conducive to growth.

“Consider the logistical and emotional aspects of such a commitment. Be prepared for changes in family dynamics, especially if it involves relocating or spending extended periods away from home. Ensure that there is a balance between tennis, academics, and personal development.

“Pay attention to the mental and physical well-being of your child. Intensive training can be demanding, so ensure that the academy provides adequate support in terms of coaching, physiotherapy, and mental health.”

Colton’s father, who’s been at the Gabe Jaramillo academy in Florida for the last two years, was more specific as to how to choose an academy. “I would send your child to the academy that can offer the most personalized development plan for your child. Smaller, boutique academies can offer better student-teacher ratios with more highly qualified coaches on every court (not just the top courts). I would find an academy that is big enough to have all the resources and a proven track record but is small enough so your child isn’t practicing on court 57. Then let the coaches do the work. Encourage your child through the tough days, there will be plenty of those, but over time, if you’re consistent with the coaching, your athlete will develop faster than at a larger academy that’s more focused on branding that truly developing players – look at Carlos Alcaraz.”

For more information about the Rush Premier Sports academy, Florida, USA, featured in this article visit their website

For more information about the Ljubicic Tennis Academy, Croatia, featured in this article visit their website

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The post Behind the scenes at a modern tennis academy appeared first on Tennishead.

Gabe Jaramillo has an intrinsic insight into the world of a professional tennis player havng 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 a behind the scenes look at what professional players do during tournaments when they aren’t playing matches…

While many viewers of the recent U.S. Open would primarily focus on the players’ performance and the outcome of the event, there is a group of individuals exploring the routines and rituals of accomplished players before and after matches which could enhance our enjoyment of the sport and provide valuable lessons applicable to athletics and life.

Before the start of a tournament, players take various factors into account, such as the optimal time to arrive and acclimate themselves. Some prefer early arrival to adjust to the court’s speed, food, and surroundings. However, this preference varies among players. For instance, Agassi preferred arriving the day before to avoid unnecessary time away from home.

Accommodation also plays a crucial role, with some players opting to stay in the official hotel where most competitors lodge, while others prefer hotels away from their rivals. Factors like proximity to the event and access to a gym influence their choices. For example, top players at Wimbledon rent houses close to the venue and bring their own chefs.

The day before a match, players visit the venue to familiarize themselves with the court and visualize the seating arrangement of spectators, coaching staff, and family. Hydration is also crucial, as players carry a gallon of water to dinner to ensure they drink enough to be ready for the next day. Equipment revision is meticulous, considering factors like weather, court speed, and rivals. Racquets are strung with varying tensions and given to technicians the previous evening.

On the night before a match, players discuss strategy while consuming food rich in complex carbohydrates and protein. Nerves may affect their appetite, leading them to opt for fast food instead of high-nutrition meals. It is recommended that players sleep for 8 to 9 hours. To calm their nerves and sleep better, players have unique routines, such as Agassi’s preference for scary movie cassettes. However, such routines may also have the opposite effect on the coaches.

On the day of the match, the players’ routine starts with checking the weather report, having breakfast, and arranging transportation to Flushing Meadows, which is quite a distance from Manhattan. To avoid traffic and get in some warm-up time, the players have to leave early. However, the matches don’t start until 11 am, and some matches won’t start before 4:00 pm, which means a long wait for the players and their coaches. During this waiting time, the coaches make sure that the players remain isolated and protected from any comments or distractions. This is because even a seemingly harmless comment like, “You have improved your serve a lot” can affect the player’s mindset and performance. Therefore, the coaches ensure that no positive or negative comments reach the players, allowing them to remain focused on the game.

The warm-up phase is crucial, and athletes, in particular, have their routines to create a sense of stability. Tennis players in particular have the capacity to make the courts a real mess. Beyond their rackets, players bring all kinds of things to practice: four or five cans of new tennis balls, several towels, untold amounts of plastic water bottles, energy bars, turn grips, bandaids, etc. They usually leave everything lying around at the end of their practices or warm-ups. While some might not be as bothered by this so long as they can still play effectively, Agassi would never stand for his court to be less than spotless. He’d spend the first few minutes of every practice making everything immaculate before he even thought about hitting a ball. It became part of his routine. The clean court gave him a feeling of organization and calmness.

During the match, another kind of routine that can give them a sense of calmness are rituals. Little motions or actions that can help create a feeling of stability. They are anchors that force them to slow down and do not allow them to speed up, especially in times of more pressure. Maria Sharapova developed a celebratory ritual early on that she used until she retired. After winning a point, she puts the racquet in her non-dominant hand, smiling or nodding, performing some kind of positive response, closes her right fist, and yells “Come on!”, before turning and walking to the baseline. Her breathing control is next, to help with her relaxation. She takes time to make a tactical plan for the next point at the baseline. Her back is to her opponent. After she’s regrouped, Maria moves back to serve or return, moving her feet to get her heart rate up. She plays at a fast pace, and the entire process between points lasts only fifteen seconds. This type of ritual can be observed in a soccer player before executing a penalty kick or a basketball player before taking a free throw.

When a ritual becomes excessive, it can turn into a superstition, relying on habits unrelated to actual skill for success. Many famous athletes exhibit such behaviors. For instance, Bjorn Borg always wore the same Fila shirt and didn’t shave until after the tournament was over whilst Serena Williams brings her shower sandals to the court as a good luck charm.

Superstition can become negative when it starts to overshadow rational thinking and skill development. When athletes rely too heavily on superstitions instead of relying on their skills and strategic thinking, and when they attribute their success or failure solely to these superstitions. This can create a false sense of control and hinder their ability to adapt to changing circumstances or overcome challenges. Ultimately, superstition becomes negative when it interferes with an athlete’s performance and limits their potential for growth and success.

We are what we do repeatedly, routines have to become habits, these daily preparations have to be executed with intention and purpose, without alternatives. By enforcing these routines, our chances of wining will increase or decrease.” That degree of discipline and respect for the routines, always striving for perfection, stuck with me and are values that I instill in our athletes today.

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’.

 Join >> Receive $700/£600 of tennis gear from the Tennishead CLUB

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 Read >> World’s best tennis magazine

 Shop >> Lowest price tennis gear from our trusted partner 

The post “Agassi had a preference for scary movies” Inside professional tennis’ routines, rituals and even superstitions appeared first on Tennishead.

Nestled on a pretty Croatian island, the Ivan Ljubicic Tennis Academy delivers quality tennis instruction in a relaxed environment whilst catering for all the needs of a family holiday, and more.

Family holidays can be stressful especially keeping children busy and happy whilst giving down time and fun for the parents. Which is why tennis holidays have grown in popularity in recent years as the carefully managed schedule of coaching and training helps keep the kids amused playing and learning a sport they love. It also gives the parents time to relax or to work on their own topspin serves. Then the rest of the day is yours to soak up some sun, splash around in the pool, explore the location or even play more tennis with the like minded tennis friends you will undoubtedly meet.

This all makes choosing the right destination even more important as you are reliant on someone else to make sure the reality lives up to the dream. But after a superb week in the professional but friendly company of their team, Tennishead can wholeheartedly guarantee that’s what you’ll find at the Ljubicic Tennis Academy in Croatia.

As soon as you arrive on Losinj, the small Adriatic island that is home to the Vitality Hotel Punta and the Ljubicic Tennis Academy, a weight is somehow lifted off your shoulders by the simply stunning setting, fresh air and friendly faces that great you.

The journey from Rijeka airport (1hr 50mins from London with Easyjet) to the hotel takes you on a 15 minute ferry from one island to the next then a 45 minute drive through the scenic hills and forests. If you are doing this trip for the first time then your hosts can arrange the transport with meet & greet chauffeur service but if you’ve done it before then hiring a car is just as easy.

The Vitality Hotel Punta is the main accommodation linked to the tennis club but there are other options that cater for different budgets. You could choose the 5 star Hotel Alhambra & Villa Augusta or make the most of the local campsites, but for our stay it seemed that nearly everyone playing tennis was staying at the Vitality Hotel Punta like us. Our family room included a large double bedroom, family bathroom, walk in wardrobe (very handy for sweaty tennis gear!) and an adjoining lounge with large sofa bed and private balcony offering views across the stunning coastline and millpond flat bay, quite a sight especially when the local family of dolphins appear.

The hotel is smart, modern and spacious with residents all eating their buffet breakfast and dinner in a shared dining room offering outdoor seating overlooking the swimming pools. The food was varied with plenty on offer for all tastes. Breakfast was a mix of fresh produce like fruit and pastries or a variety of cooked options like omelettes. Dinner changed every day with a range of classics on offer from fish, to meat, to pasta all accompanied by a delicious salad bar and range of desserts.

Outdoors the Vitality Hotel Punta features a range of stunning infinity pools all with breathtaking views across the sea to the other local islands. There is a heated indoor pool and a lovely pool-side restaurant & bar for lunch and snacks, but the numerous staff will happily bring your ice cream and drinks or food to your sun lounger. The outdoor facilities are well set up for children of all ages with a toddler’s splash pool and playground. A health spa on site offers all the usual treatments & services and was very popular.

The Ljubicic Tennis Academy, situated to the rear of the Vitality Hotel Punta, occupies 9 clay courts and 4 hard courts with indoor facilities. The clay is the main reason for visiting and the quality of the courts was quite incredible. On our trip none other than Marin Cilic had been practising there the previous week and he had commented that the courts were in better condition than on the ATP Tour, and from our experience it’s hard to question his judgment. The courts are built into the side of the hill so you get a view of the sea and the resort from most of them which all helps to add to the magical feel of the place. The tennis club includes a pretty, open air club house serving coffee, soft drinks and ice cream plus a pro shop for racket restrings and plenty of space to watch the tennis and relax.

Ivan Ljubicic shouldn’t need an introduction! A former world no.3, coach of Roger Federer from 2016 until the end of his playing days and now director of the French Tennis Federation’s “Ambition 2024” program, he’s long had a vision to establish a base for tennis players looking to step up their game and learn how to improve not only their playing style but also their winning mentality.

Our training started on Monday morning with a session in the superb, modern gym facilities. Here there are two main rooms plus an outdoor space. The Ljubicic Tennis Academy has exclusive use of one room which is where all tennis players spend the first 45 mins of each morning in the company of the academy’s resident fitness experts, two personal trainers and a physio therapist.

Every workout involves a professional warm up for the tennis muscles plus tennis specific strength and conditioning work all focused on helping your body be ready for the courts. Obviously the fitness is optional but everyone in our family enjoyed it and took part each day and it especially helps your body and mind prepare for the strenuous clay court tennis session that lies ahead.

Each full day in the academy tennis program includes two 90 minute on court sessions, one in the morning then one in the afternoon, book-ended by your fitness sessions. Players have the choice of a half day academy package or a full day and you can easily mix these up across your stay depending on how energetic you feel. A daily schedule is published via a WhatsApp group to keep you informed so if you want to change your schedule to include more or less of one activity you simply inform their team the day before.

You will be separated into groups of similar standards for your stay and the Academy pride themselves on a coach to player ration that never exceeds 1 coach to 3 pupils which is far better than most other tennis academies. In the past the Ljubicic Academy has solely focussed on elite junior players and they still have around 20-30 children playing nearly full time, but recently they’ve expanded their offering to help accommodate club players of all levels and juniors that are keen competition players but not elite.

The tennis coaches are fantastic and all fluent in English (and many other languages). They quickly work out a tennis program that’s going to suit you own requirements and are adept at balancing the need for technical improvement and hard work with the knowledge that you are on holiday and there to relax at the same time. The Croatian attitude seems to be that tennis should be an important part of your life and your holiday but it shouldn’t hinder you having fun and taking away fond memories.

At no point did any of our group feel pressured to perform on court or in the gym and the level of coaching and advice was perfectly suited to our levels of ability.

Clay court tennis knowledge is the order of the day so expect to learn about the subtle changes in technique needed to maximise your shots on this slow, high bouncing surface. The strategy of winning points on clay is also different to that of a hard court and your Ljubicic Academy coach will set up various drills and situations to help you understand what it takes to be a succesful clay court competitor.

For our group we found that a half day in the morning with the academy was enough then we made the most of the hotel facilities and perfect weather in the afternoon before a relaxed game of tennis with friends as the sun was setting and the temperature dropping, but many of the younger players took the full day academy option.

The rest of the island of Losinj island includes a small town within walking distance of the tennis called Veli Losinj which is picture-postcard beautiful and offers a range of harbour side restaurants and cafes plus a supermarket and a few small gift shops. The larger town of Mali Losinj is a 5 minute taxi ride or 20 minute stroll away along the coast. This has a larger range of more tourist focussed facilities all built around a lovely harbour full of pretty sail boats.

Our tennis holiday at the Vitality Hotel Punta and Ljubicic Tennis Academy was undoubtedly the best tennis holiday we’ve had as a family. Everything really was perfect, from the weather, to the tennis & hotel facilities, to the friendly, helpful staff but the most memorable part of the trip was enjoying the company of the fellow tennis players and the team that run the Ljubicic Academy. They went out of their way to make us feel welcome and at home and to help us enjoy playing tennis in their stunning surroundings. Our only regret was booking just one week’s holiday instead of two, but we won’t make that mistake next year.

The facts…

Travel

Located on the island of Losinj in Northern Croatia.

• 1200 plant species
• 260 days of sunshine annually
• Supreme air quality

Airports
Zagreb: ZGB 260km (from hotel/tennis)
Pula: PUY 153km
Rijeka: RJK 100km
Venice: VCE 350km
Trieste: RS 190km
Ljubljana: LJU 245km

From the airport to hotel/tennis academy on the island of Losinj

Either the Ljubicic Academy team can arrange transport from the airport via their own drivers or you can book a taxi (make sure to agree a price in advance) or hire a car. The ferry across to Losinj takes approximately 15 minutes with no advance bookings. Check the Ferry schedules.

Hotels and accommodation

The Ljubicic TennisAcademy can manage all aspects of your holiday including recommendations and booking for your accommodation.

• Vitality Hotel Punta: 4*, most popular for the tennis academy
• Hotel Alhambra & Villa Augusta: 5*, with it’s own tennis facilities also managed by Ljubicic Tennis Academy
• Hotel Bellevue: 5*
• Campsite

Tennis

Ljubicic Tennis Academy located at the Vitality Hotel Punta:

• 9 clay courts
• 4 hard courts
• Indoor courts (winter)
• Gym
• Fitness room
• Clubhouse & bar
• 6 full time tennis coaches
• 2 full time fitness coaches
• 1 full time physiotherapist

Sample tennis programs

Half day

Price: From €649 to €1,149 depending on the dates of your stay

Full day

Price: From €999 to €1,949 depending on the dates of your stay

Tennis academy options

Academy: Training for players on their path to professional or college level, includes option for internationally certified education.

Performance weeks: A base to train with some of the best coaches in the game using their winning method to put you on the right course.

Camps: Weekly junior program designed for achieving fast results and giving you the taste of what awaits at Ljubicic Tennis Academy as a base for your development.

Coaching: For adults and juniors in groups or individuals, booked in advance.

Book a court: If you just want to hit balls on perfect clay courts overlooking the sea!

Enquire about your holiday

Online bookings at LjubicicAcademy.com

Email the Ljubicic Academy: info@ljubicicacademy.com

Phone bookings and enquiries: Ivan Frleta, Sales Manager, +385 99 3291 574

Brochure download

Instagram: @ljubicic_tennis_academy

Tennishead reader discount for Ljubicic Tennis Academy and Hotel Punta Vitality

We were so impressed with our time at the Ljubicic Tennis Academy that we’ve agreed a partnership for all Tennishead readers to benefit from a 12.5% discount off the tennis academy costs (not the hotel) during 2023 . Simply mention TENNISHEAD when you make your enquiry.

And the offer for your stay at the Hotel Vitality Punta…

Book a tennis camp at the Ljubicic Academy and receive 15% off your hotel booking

Conditions:

• Valid only for Hotel Punta Vitality
• Valid only during 2023
• Valid only for hotel bookings made through Ljubicic Tennis Academy
• Valid only for clients who have booked one of the tennis programs at Ljubicic Tennis Academy
• 15% discount is valid on all prices seen on website of Hotel Punta Vitality for the desired period

To redeem the offer simply choose the desired period of tennis training and hotel accommodation and then contact the Ljubicic Academy team.

Ljubicic Tennis Academy works in partnership with…

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Nestled in the small but perfectly formed Adriatic island of Lošinj, Ivan Ljubicic has created a stunning tennis holiday location that offers a blend of high quality coaching mixed with the best of that legendary Croatian hospitality.

Ivan Ljubicic reached No.3 in the world at a time when Rafa Nadal and Roger Federer were the top two, so he knows what it means to commit yourself to your passion and to squeeze the best out of everything you do. And it’s this commitment which seems to have translated into his Ljubicic Tennis Academy in Croatia.

Tennis holidays are becoming more and more popular, no doubt linked to the huge rise in tennis participation since the COVID pandemic that encouraged us all to play outdoor sports. Family tennis holidays work so well because players of different standards from the same family can learn to play in groups of their own level for a few hours each day before rejoining their loved ones to enjoy any delights offered off the tennis court.

According to Ljubicic, “the island of Losinj is a true hidden gem of the Mediterranean sea. It’s a place with a rich history, fascinating scenery and a turqoise sea. With more than 260 sunny days per year, it is perfect for an active lifestyle and devotion to sports. Due to specific climate conditions and supreme air quality, Lošinj was recognized as health tourism destination 130 years ago.”

The tennis academy itself is situated just a stones throw away from a range of high quality accommodation to suit all budgets thanks to a partnership with Lošinj Hotels & Villas who operate hotels, luxury villas and apartments located at the most attractive locations of the island.

Ljubicic has said of this project, “For me, this is the last piece of puzzle that was missing on my tennis path. I was thinking about this step for some time and when me and my team started talking I soon realized that this place is perfect for what we want to create. With all the experience I have in tennis, I knew the place is going to be as strong as the team is. I wanted to get the best possible people to work in the academy and to share knowledge and experience with players.”

But not all tennis holidaymakers want to be grinding it on the courts for 8 hours a day which is why the Ljubicic experience very clearly states that they can offer plenty for those that want a more relaxed trip and a chance to sample the delights of this island,

“Whether you like to treat yourself with a luxury Spa experience followed by a dinner in a Michelin star restaurant and a good night sleep in a luxury 5 star hotel or you just want to soak the sun in a hidden bay, Lošinj is the place for you. You can spend your nights in a camp or in a super-luxury villa, and everywhere in-between. You can enjoy time in outdoor or indoor pools, workout in a gym with a breathtaking sea view or hike the Osorcica mountain.”

Tennishead is delighted to announce a partnership with the Ljubicic Tennis Academy which means we can offer our readers a 12.5% discount on any package you book. You can view the full range of tennis packages before making your choice then make sure you mention Tennishead when you are booking to secure your discount.

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Thanks to artificial intelligence, Wingfield’s video analysis tools are able to filter entire matches according to specific shots, sequences and playing patterns. After a recorded match, you can use the Wingfield app to display only the most important moments, saving you valuable time during your match analysis.

For truly dedicated tennis players, being able to analyse your game is a key aspect of enjoyment and success. You are always striving to find out what didn’t go so well and what can be done better next time. So imagine the opportunities if we could watch our own practise and matches whenever we wanted and have the ability to analyse our game…

Without the hassle of trying to film yourself, Wingfield always gives you an easy way to spontaneously record entire matches. Wingfield goes beyond conventional video analysis tools. The Wingfield app utilises the video recorded by the static video cameras on court combined with intelligent AI processes that get the most out of your recordings.

The system understands what is happening on the court, identifies special sequences in the match – such as winners, aces or net attacks – recognizes the different types of shots, tracks speeds and automatically counts the result in the background. Each individual video sequence is enriched with additional information that makes later navigation within the recordings more user-friendly.

After a match on the Wingfield Court, all data is synchronized with the app and your user account. Instead of having to scroll through long recordings to find certain match situations or to find sources of errors on your own, Wingfield helps you out.

Use the skip pauses feature to automatically hide idle time between points. With the smart controls of the video player, you can easily filter match videos according to certain criteria. The player selection determines whether the respective filter is applied to you or your opponent.

For example, only show your errors in the match. Was your footwork bad on the backhand side or did your forehand get tight? The video-based feedback highlights possible reasons for losing points. You’ll quickly notice that you’re developing a better understanding of what you could optimize next time.

Focus on Filters (example)

Return+1

Filter your video according to certain patterns – like Return+1 – and check if your returns had good depth to put the opponent under pressure. Do you bring enough variety into your shots and do you take the necessary risks to take the ball early and play aggressively down the line?

Serve+1

Among the pros, over 60% of the points are decided within 0-4 shots. In the amateur level, it is no different. Therefore, it can be beneficial to focus on how the player opens the rally. Use the Serve+1 filter to see if you can mix up your serves appropriately to exploit your opponents specific weaknesses. Opening the court – meaning serve out wide with the following shot down the line – is an effective way of either quickly trying to win the point or at least putting the opponent in a difficult situation.

Defensive plays

With the filter ‘Defensive Plays’, you will see all rallies in which you may have played (too) cautiously. Did you get pushed back too far, giving your opponent easy ways to win points

Now read more about Wingfield from Tennishead with our case study of a UK tennis club that is benefiting from a Wingfield connected court and our feature on how the Wingfield connected court is revolutionising tennis analysis for club players.

Over 300 clubs are already using Wingfield. You can find the nearest club in your area in their Court Finder. If you would like to use Wingfield in your own club, you can apply here with your club. Simply scan the QR code and fill out the contact form. Wingfield will then contact the club board to figure out what is possible.

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A charming 120-year-old club in the British countryside is at the cutting edge of technology, with a tennis court equipped with artificial intelligence from Wingfield

The Avenue is a welcoming community-focused sports and social club with more than 1,000 members. Located in Havant, Hampshire, it is a friendly and inclusive hub where people of all ages and abilities can meet up and play tennis and have some fun.

Dating back to 1902, The Avenue may at first seem traditional, but the forward-looking club is adopting innovative technology. Since moving to its current site in 1920, its facilities have expanded to 10 grass and seven all-weather courts (four synthetic clay and three artificial grass), including one equipped with the Wingfield ‘connected court’ system.

Driving digital change

For a club steeped in history, The Avenue is certainly ahead of the game. Wingfield tracks players’ activities during a match or practice session, providing detailed
insight into their game – from first-serve percentage to every backhand’s average height over the net. Players receive instant video and data in user-friendly formats, delivered on the court or via a smartphone app.

Wrapped unobtrusively around Court 11’s net post, the sleek white Wingfield Box – based on artificial intelligence and image-processing technology – generates real-time performance data that enable players of all skill and experience levels, and their coaches, to measure improvements.

Wingfield facilitates friendly competition and comparison to other players using the system both locally and worldwide in a variety of Drill Challenges. It even offers a wide range of match statistics previously only known from the broadcasts of major tournaments, allowing amateur players to compare themselves with professional tennis champions.

This investment in the future of tennis – led at The Avenue by coach Ashley Neaves – has been popular with the current membership (many of whom skew older) as well as the younger generation Wingfield is attracting to the club.

‘WHEN YOU START USING IT, YOU REALISE HOW USEFUL IT CAN BE’

EVE (CLUB MEMBER AT THE AVENUE)

The Wingfield word spreads

From the moment its Wingfield Box was installed, Court 11 has been booked out almost constantly. While it was an instant hit with kids, teenagers and younger adults, some of the club’s older members took a little time to warm to the idea of a white ‘smart box’ judging their game, but they’re now the ones at the front of Court 11’s queue. Everyone is talking stats, like their fastest serves and Wingfield Drill high scores and rankings. Not only are they pitting themselves against other players in the club, they’re also enjoying some sociable ‘rivalry’ with the coaching team.

And word about Wingfield spread quickly, especially as it’s not uncommon for professional tennis players to call in at The Avenue to have their rackets strung and customised by Wimbledon’s head stringer, who takes care of club members’ rackets. When the professionals heard about Wingfield’s capabilities, they jumped at the chance to compare the weights of different rackets and see how the speed of their shots were impacted.

The Avenue and Court 11 have become a bit of a local attraction among players of all ages and skill levels.

A brave new world of tennis

The Avenue’s coaching team quickly recognised the new opportunities Wingfield offers and incorporated them into their training regimen, using the system’s video and statistical analysis capabilities to lift everyone’s game. This approach makes training more interactive: a video analysis session dedicated to a player’s technique, for example, helps them improve via the most personalised feedback possible, as they can see visual playback of their own game.

But it isn’t all coaching on Court 11. A wide variety of players take to the court, with some using The Avenue’s ball machine to practise their forehands and backhands, while others come alone with a few balls to work on their serves. Fair warning, though: the Wingfield court can become addictive. Once you play a Drill and instantly get your score and ranking, you just want to keep getting better and better.

‘THE STAT I PROBABLY LIKE THE MOST IS THE HEIGHT ABOVE THE NET. I’VE NEVER EVEN THOUGHT ABOUT THAT BEFORE’

BECKY (CLUB MEMBER AT THE AVENUE)

The more, the merrier

The Avenue wanted Wingfield to help their existing members get the most out of their game, but also hoped it would attract a younger demographic to tennis – including teens, young adults and families. To say the plan has been successful on all fronts is an understatement: existing members of all ages love how Wingfield allows them to be creative to unleash the full potential of the court, while many new junior players have joined The Avenue.

But this success is not just down to Wingfield, of course, or even the fact that the club has decided not to charge people extra fees to use and enjoy Wingfield’s impressive array of capabilities. Rather, it is The Avenue’s holistic approach to tennis and the sheer enjoyment of playing there.

In the end, it was about setting up a modern club with top-class facilities that would not only inspire more people to play tennis, but also safeguard
the future of the sport by ensuring its continued growth at all levels.

For The Avenue, the use of digital technology in match play and training is an effective and fun way to help players get the most out of their game, with all of the possibilities that the court offers them. And The Avenue – with its high-tech, futureproof Court 11 – certainly offers that in spades.

To join The Avenue in this tennis court revolution get in touch with the Wingfield team

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The UK leg of the renowned Champions Bowl starts on 29th May, 2021 with succesful players being invited to compete at the Grand Final in Croatia

The Champions Bowl was a concept created in 2014 by two Slovakian tennis fanatics who wanted to offer junior players aged 9 – 16 from around the world the chance to compete for impressive prizes aimed at helping motivate these up and coming, young players.

This year, the UK leg of the Champions Bowl is split into two age groups, for children aged 9-12 and 13-16 years old. It takes place at the Tennis Avenue School in New Malden, Surrey from 29th May – 5th June 2021.

Over 35 different countries are holding qualifying tournaments this year with the winners all being invited to compete at the Grand Finals in Umag, Croatia in September later this year.

But to win their place, British juniors must first win their way through the UK leg, which features sponsorships from the likes of Wilson. Tennis Avenue School have also put up an impressive £70,000 training fund to help motivate the junior players.

Meeting like minded players is a key benefit of the champions Bowl as is the chance for coaches of the young players to share learnings and experiences as they watch their pupils compete.

Prizes

Full Scholarship into Tennis Avenue School – worth £9000 each

Tennis Avenue School is Britain’s first and only registered independent school dedicated to the needs of elite young tennis players. It is the next step in the evolution of the hugely successful Tennis Avenue Academy which has produced many of Britain’s best junior players over the past decade.

Tennis Avenue players have won 16 Tennis Europe titles (10 runners up) and 26 LTA national Grade 1/2 tournaments (10 runners-up) over the past few years. Amongst this number is former academy player and current Wilson sponsored player Jack Pinnington Jones who won the Champions Bowl 12&U category in 2005 and is currently ranked top 10 in the world Junior ITF (18&U).

All Champions Bowl winners in 9&U, 10&U, 11&U and 12&U age categories will be offered a full-scholarship into the school for a minimum of 1 year. In the older age groups (8 events) the winners receive training worth £1000 per winner with 8 winners in total. In terms of younger age groups it is a scholarship worth £9000 each for 7 winners.

For more information follow this link

Wilson Sponsorship and Prizes

All 9&U, 10&U, 11&U and 12&U winners will be offered a full national-level racket sponsorship contract by Wilson! This is an exceptional prize that Wilson only offer to the very best national players.

Wilson will also be providing the semi-finalists and finalists in ALL age groups with generous prizes and goodies.

ALL tournament entrants will receive a special discount code for ordering Wilson products. Additionally, EVERY follower of our Instagram account @championsbowl.gb will also receive a special Wilson discount code – providing you start following us before 23rd May 2021.

For more information on this year’s UK leg please contact:

Website: GB.Champ-Bowl.com

Tel: 07886 455661

Entry Form

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Patrick Mouratoglou has expanded his tennis coaching services by teaming up with the Costa Navarino holiday destination

The Greek resort in Peloponnese will further develop its sporting facilities with the construction of 12 new tennis courts to welcome the Mouratoglou Tennis Centre and coaches. Overlooking the Ionian Sea, tennis fans and players will be experience the Mouratoglou coaching methodology alongside tailor-made programs from one of the world’s most succesful coaches.

Patrick Mouratoglou has worked with some of the best known stars of professional tennis including Serena Williams and Stefanos Tsitsipas, and Mouratoglou himself has a close affinity with Greece thanks to his Greek father, “I feel a profound sense of patriotism; I am half-French and half-Greek, and during my childhood, I spent several months in Greece every year. I feel very attached to it.”

Costa Navarino is one of the biggest tourism investments in the Mediterranean, consisting of several distinct sites renowned for its sustainable ethos, pristine coastal location, rich history and cultural heritage, unspoiled landscape, luxury hospitality and premium real estate. Stephanos Theodorides, Managing Director of TEMES S.A. commented: “We’re thrilled to expand our sports offering with new facilities and partner with the very best in the world of tennis – bringing a slice of the leading Mouratoglou Academy to Greece.

World No. 5 Stefanos Tsitsipas says: “As a Greek citizen, I was delighted to hear from Patrick about the opening of the center. We both share a deep connection to Greece, and I have no doubt that this new project will be just as much of a success as his academy in France, which I have been a part of since I was 16 years old”

For more information or to book your stay visit https://www.costanavarino.com/mouratoglou-tennis-center/

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