There are some major differences between being age 8, age 18 and age 58. And since tennis is a sport you can play your entire life, you’ll notice these age variations appear on the court, too. No matter your age, you might identify with a few of the following.
Your thought process during warm-up …
Age 8: Is that a caterpillar over there? Cool! I’m gonna pick it up with my tennis racket.
Age 18: Is that my cell-phone vibrating over there? It’s probably really important. I’m gonna go check it.
Age 58: Is that my water-bottle over there? This lesson just started and I already need a break.
How you feel about drills …
Age 8: Boring. Can we play games now?
Age 18: Necessary. They don’t give scholarships to just anyone.
Age 58: Thrilling! This is even better than book club!
Your training routine off the court ….
Age 8: Freeze tag.
Age 18: The only weight I’m lifting is this cheeseburger to my mouth.
Age 58: Power walking with my corgi.
Your excuse for playing poorly …
Age 8: My [insert random body part] hurts.
Age 18: The love of my life broke up with me. Via text.
Age 58: **Gestures toward hip replacement**
Your biggest challenge right now is …
Age 8: Orange QuickStart balls. They’re smaller than the red!
Age 18: Rankings. If you ain’t first, you’re last.
Age 58: Picking my mixed doubles partner. It’s cutthroat.
Why you play tennis …
Age 8: Because it’s fun!
Age 18: Because I love it.
Age 58: Because it’s the sport of a lifetime.
