Articles

By Jeff Greenwald, M.A., MFT. A great deal has been written about the mental game of tennis; yet despite all the books, articles, and videos, players still come on the court and play scared. Why?

By Jeff Greenwald, M.A., MFT. Many recreational and competitive tennis players talk about the “zone” – that magical day when the ball appears larger than usual, the court wider, and confidence is overflowing. This experience

By Jeff Greenwald, M.A., MFT. Interclub play in some European nations is unlike anything in the United States. The level of play is extremely high; matches are fiercely contested and draw large crowds of supporters.

By Jeff Greenwald, M.A., MFT. From the moment my mother pulled away, at the age of 12, as I stared out of the academy’s motel window with tears streaming down my face, I began my

By Jeff Greenwald, M.A., MFT. There appears to be a universal consensus that the “zone”-the mind-body connection that invariably produces our best and most relished performances-is, for most of us, an elusive place. In fact,

By Jeff Greenwald, M.A., MFT. What is the first question players are asked after a match? “How did you do?” Most players, shaped by the standards set in our society, naturally respond, “I won” or

By Jeff Greenwald, M.A., MFT. Smarter Strategy, Better “Feel” Many veteran players who still coach and compete simply believe they have better feel for the ball. Mark Farren, Director of Sleepy Hollow Tennis Club in

By Jeff Greenwald, M.A., MFT. You will not find a successful athlete who does not become anxious before competition. Most athletes, including Michael Jordan, will tell you that if they aren’t nervous before a big

By Jeff Greenwald, M.A., MFT. When it comes to athletic competition, everyone talks about momentum — psychological momentum, when everything is moving in the right direction for one competitor or another. As I write this,

By Jeff Greenwald, M.A., MFT. “I’m more relaxed now.” I’m finally enjoying the game.” I’m smarter now.” I feel the ball better than I ever have. I know what my strengths are and don’t beat

By Jeff Greenwald, M.A., MFT. “We had it. It was mine. I can’t believe it. What happened? I blew it. I choked. Aaargh.” Matches at all levels are lost every day because players are unable

By Jeff Greenwald, M.A., MFT. Even though by some standards I was excelling in the game, for years I had felt as though I wasn’t tapping my potential. How did I know this? I would