If the competition is getting you down. Get out of racquetball if you can and have some fun.
Some years ago one of my billboard athletes had just had a crushing loss at the Nationals. Winning game one and way ahead in game two, my player just for lack of a better word, choked. The choke was not out of fear, but from burnout. I sensed it, tried to manage it, but could not avoid the oncoming loss of game two and the tie-breaker. After this defeat, in a discussion I asked this question.
“When is the last time you took a week off?’
Answer: “Hmm, I think a year ago.”
My response, “Drop the racquet for at least two weeks.” You need a break!
The player’s face lit up in an unexpected smile. I had just removed a huge burden from this athlete’s shoulders.
This is for all you tournament players out there. I was lucky enough to coach other sports, and teach school. This world was a welcome break from the tournament wars. If you get too far into it, you get sucked into a never-ending “I’m not working hard enough” mentality.
Putting yourself in different environments keeps you mentally fresh when you play competitive racquetball. I also keeps you from “obsessing” and “angsting” over big matches and tournaments.
Try this-ask yourself this question. “How long has it been since I took a week off from racquetball?” If the answer is anything over 3 months, it is time for a break. You will come back fresh and ready to hit some rocket serves!
And oh, by the way, that athlete has won many championships since that tournament and will be in the HOF someday