Tennis Header
Tennis Newsletter | November 2011 | VBgov.com/Parks 
Better Preparation Equals Better Result 
by Chris Cruse  


Jumping RopeIn tennis, it is pivotal to have good foot movement. When approaching the ball, you should use small fast steps instead of large steps to set up for the shot. This helps maintain balance and puts you in a better position to contact the ball. Remember, the faster you get to the ball, the more time you have to prepare for the shot. Quickness can make the difference in winning and losing.

So, how can you improve your speed? Increase your muscular power. Power is how fast one can lift a specific weight through the total range of motion. In other words, it's the combination of speed and strength. One of the best ways to train for explosive power and strength is by using plyometrics. Plyometrics is defined as exercises that enable muscles to develop maximum strength and power in a short period of time. Some examples include jumping rope, skipping drills, standing jumps, depth jumps and cone hops, all of which will improve your footwork. 

Pro Tip: Let Gravity Help Your Volleys
 by USPTA Pro Scott Baxter
  
Many players have difficulty with high volleys and often times their ready position is making matters worse. When you prepare to hit a volley with the butt cap of your racquet tucked in close to your naval and your racquet face well below chin level, there is a lot of upward movement necessary to hit a high volley - movement that requires that you work against gravity.

By preparing with a high ready position, keeping your racquet face up (almost in front of your face), you decrease the amount of movement required to hit high volleys as well as eliminate the unnecessary battle with gravity. Keeping gravity in mind, we know that it is easier to drop your arm than to raise it, so keep your racquet face high when in ready position allowing you to easily meet high volleys and let gravity help your body (not your racquet face!) drop when it's time for the low ones.
Attention High School Players! 
  

High School PlayerHigh school tennis season begins soon and we can help you get into your best competitive form! Our Tennis Academy Select is designed for the serious player who will be playing competitive tennis (high school level or tournaments). A live ball approach will be used to help players develop consistent strokes and point play.

The class meets three times a week for an hour and a half and players must be approved by the Director of Tennis for this program. Call Owl Creek Tennis Center at 385-2695 to sign up!  

Find Us On Facebook! 

 

Recipe of the Month

Salmon Cakes with Creamy Ginger-Sesame Sauce

 

Delicious and packed with protein!  

 

Drop-In Clinics
Adv. Beg/Intermediate
(2.5 to 3.5)
Mon & Wed | 6:30-8 pm | $21
 
Men's & Ladies Night Out (3.5 & up)
Tues & Thur | 7-8:30 pm | $21

New! Cardio Tennis
Tues & Fri | 9-10 am | $15
 
As some of these clinics fill, we ask that you call 385-2695 in advance to have your name added to the list.
Winter Classes Now Enrolling
 

We have classes available for adults and juniors, all ages and levels. Our winter classes will be filling up fast, so be sure to sign up in advance. Owl Creek Tennis Center's indoor facility or "bubble" is climate controlled, so there is no need to worry about inclement weather and cancellations.   

 

Registration is available through EZreg or in person at any recreation center or Owl Creek Tennis Center. 
Please Note Our Upcoming Facility Closures
  
Owl Creek Tennis Center will be closed on Thursday & Friday, November 24-25 for Thanksgiving. 
Virginia Beach Parks and Recreation believes all of our diverse citizens have a right to participate in community recreation and we are committed to creating equal access for everyone who may have a challenge or barrier. If you or your child require additional support, we can help.  Learn more about our accommodation and inclusion services.
Owl Creek Municipal Tennis Center
Location: 928 S. Birdneck Road, Virginia Beach | Phone: (757) 385-2695
Hours: Monday - Friday: 9am - 9pm | Saturday and Sunday: 9am - 5pm
We welcome your comments and questions.  Feel free to email us at fun@vbgov.com.
Tennis Footer
Virginia Beach Parks & Recreation is accredited by CAPRA,
the certifying agency of the National Recreation and Park Association.