Think like the old boy and girl scouts motto–“Be Prepared”! If you are thrown a curve when least expecting, it could create havoc with your concentration. I have seen almost every dirty trick in the book. From hitting a guy in the face with an overhead to win a seniors title, to walking across a player’s setups, to temper tantrums and turning the air blue; all these things can break your concentration and if you play long enough something will happen that could cause a melt-down if you are not prepared.
Think of what could happen and develop a plan. For example, breaking the rules, you would get a tournament director to interpret the rules or better yet, address it with the tournament director and referee before-hand if you think there will be an issue.
Tournament running late? Have food in your bag just in case.
Poor court conditions, have a plan for forcing a tournament director to give you a safe court to play on. It is your right!
Playing a super cheater threatening you with physical harm? Have a plan. Get the tournament director.
Oh, and do not forget to carry a rulebook in your bag (or have it downloaded on your phone-club wifi can be non-existent).
Feel free to share your own horror story! I know you have them!!
Editor’s Note: One last thought on being prepared. No courts for most players is depressing and for the most part, very frustrating. The athletes who continue to work despite the pandemic conditions, will come out of this on the other side without missing a step. Be Prepared!