We at MyTennisLessons are excited to announce Beverley K. as our instructor of the month for February. Not only is she doing a great job teaching her students the game of tennis, she also is originally from England and thus has experience in playing tennis in England as well as the United States. We were able to find some time between lessons to ask Beverley a few questions.
At what point did you realize that tennis is the sport you want to concentrate on?
I love all kinds of sports, Track & Field, Netball, Soccer, Rounders, Skiing, Bowling, golf and of course tennis. The point at which I realized tennis was the one sport I wanted to concentrate on was when out of all the sports, Tennis was the one that I couldn’t stop playing. I enjoyed the challenge it gave and it kept and still keeps me active.
You moved from England to the United States. Have you played tennis back there? If so, what do you think is the biggest difference between England and the United States regarding the state of tennis?
In England, you were exposed to ALL sports. At school, it wasn’t an option to pick or choose. I think that concept would benefit American schools, because when kids generally have a negative thought about a sport, or think themselves incapable they won’t even try it. The other difference in America than England is that England doesn’t push or expose talent and are quite limited in growth because although you may play a sport and have passion for it there are not many opportunities beyond that.
In America, there are so many avenues for kids to get exposure for their talents. There are scholarships for college, tennis leagues, great trainers and scouts who are looking for those particular kids.
You’ve been teaching tennis for five years now. What do you like most about being a tennis instructor?
What I like the most about being a tennis instructor is first I love the sport. Second the students, no matter what level, their dedication and determination to learn, makes it all worthwhile. My goal is to make it fun, when it’s hard. There are so many things to learn, and each time I teach, I learn a new way to make something that is difficult easier. I also design the lessons based on my student’s personalities and levels, and I push them hard and try to encourage them. Watching the growth, the determination of the student and then finally seeing them blossom into a confident tennis player. What more can you ask? It’s a great feeling.
What is the first thing you teach your students in order for them to see progress?
One of the first things I teach my students is the proper technique of how to hold the racquet for the various strokes, and to make sure they have the correct racquet for their grip. I also emphasize strength training, stamina and endurance. With that comes the combination of skill and most importantly confidence.
Also, you were part of the tennis team at your highschool and college. Would you suggest to young players to try out for the teams if they had the chance to?
I would encourage young players to try out on different teams, in different organizations. Getting the experience as well as skill is key. As we all know tennis is also a mental game so trying out for high school and college is part of that experience. A player will gain confidence playing various players of different skill levels, which can only enhance their game. It makes for a well- rounded and solid tennis player.
