I have been competing as a senior tennis player for 30 years. I have been fortunate to have had an incredible run during these years. I had results beyond my dreams and, more importantly, I have become a different person as a result of being in the heat of competition
For two weeks, as a spectator and player, I was wowed by the special moments of play that were demonstrated by Dimitrov, Wawrinka, Ivanovic, Federer, Nadal, Djokovic, Cibulkova, Li Na and so many others. The shots they can hit, the level of consistency of their play, and the coverage around the court so complete that it is hard to relate for the rest of us who play.
While at Tennis Congress USA a couple of weeks ago I was giving a presentation “Storytelling: A World Champion’s Secret to Playing the Best Game of Your Life” and was pleased to see Jeff Greenwald in attendance. He is a former #1 in the World 35 and 45 and over player and a top San Francisco based sports psychologist.
“Belief is the scepter of all champions. It’s the way they command respect from their competitors. It’s how they coordinate their amazing talents. In the end, it’s the difference between the legends and the other supremely talented stars.
A morning not too different than any other morning. Breakfast with Jo Ann reading the NY Times. Feeling pretty chilled. Happy and grateful for my life.
Then time to get down to the serious preparation for a big competition.
A successful day on the courts is when you play well and win, especially when challenged by good players who are playing well too. Today was a successful day for me.
Another day in paradise at Seabright Lawn and Tennis Club on a spectacular fall morning. As a tournament progresses the parking lot gets less crowded as players who have been eliminated leave for homes around the country. There is something very different about the last couple of days of an event.
It was a spectacular day on Wednesday. The green grass, blue sky and all white tennis clothes. The only sound is the racket hitting the ball as there is no sound when the ball bounces. It is a spiritual and unique tennis experience.
