One of the misconceptions about my coaching is I make everyone hit the ball the same way. That term is “cookie cutter coaching”.
On the other hand, I do not subscribe to the “Athletes should be able to hit the ball any way they want. The theory is that everyone has a swing like a snowflake and no two are correct.”
So why do I change peoples’ mechanics and footwork?
Well in some cases I modify more than change; especially in senior players but I try to get folks using their body to hit the ball more than their arm or back. Why?
1. So they can hit the ball harder? Yes, but not the main reason.
2. So they can keep the ball out of center court? Yes, but not the main reason.
3. So they can hit better serves? Yes, but not the main reason.
4. So they can be more consistent and have more control? Yes, but not the main reason!
What is the main reason? To prevent injury and to have a longer pain-free racquetball career. That is the main reason.
The footwork I teach was being taught to Cam Newton before his rookie year at the IMG academy according to my friend who interned there and with whom I work with in business. I paid money for expert kinesiology consultants who happen to have worked for USA cycling, Roger Federer, and Rafeal Nadal, among other clients.
And when I showed scientific experts many of my competitor’s footwork and technique it got a thumbs down. So it is not an opinion peculiar to me; it is scientific fact that what I teach is the safest and most efficient.
But forget all of the above. Guess why I have more and more people coming to me? Their friends are getting better and when asked why, they are telling everyone about my coaching. The bottom line is this; if you come work with me and follow what I say and practice-you will become a better player by at least one level and in most cases two or three levels. Oh and also I have hundreds national, Regional, and World champions at all levels in a coaching career that started 49 years ago!!