UNLEASH YOUR POTENTIAL IN TENNIS AND PICKLEBALL
Building Skills, Character, and Confidence from Midwest Tennis & Pickleball Lessons
Indoor & outdoor Lessons
At Midwest Tennis and Pickleball, we believe in nurturing the complete athlete – mind, body, and spirit. Seasoned coach Sedge Beard uses a holistic approach to develop proper technique, mental toughness, and a lifelong love for tennis and pickleball in young players. With personalized training rograms and a focus on character-building, we teach 7-year-olds to seniors to their full potential both on and off the court.
INDOOR OR OUTDOOR, YEAR ROUND
1-on-1 Lessons
singles / doubles
Kishwaukee YMCA contact:
Kelsey Lynch: 815-375-5392
Taylor YMCA contact:
Justin G., 847-888-7410
(membership not required for lessons)
family fun & groups up to 8
teaching in Dekalb, Dupage, kane and McHenry counties
SCHEDULE A FREE CONSULTATION
Spring & Summer Classes available at DeKalb & Elgin YMCAs now.
Sign up using links above!
MEET THE COACH
Combining technical skill development with character-building and a love for the game,Sedge Beard will bring his decades of experience to teach anyone from beginner to advancedplayers, ages 7 to seniors.
COACHING HOURS
MONDAY – THURSDAY
9:00am – 7:00pm
FRIDAY
9:00am – 6:00pm
Saturday
9:00am – 4:00pm
Sunday
Reschedules and special appointments
Technique & Other Tips
The Importance of Proper Technique for All Athletes
Proper technique is the foundation for success in any sport, and it's especially crucial for all athletes to develop correct form from the start. In tennis and pickleball, improper technique can lead to injuries, bad habits, and stunted skill development. Common mistakes like improper grip, poor footwork, and incorrect swing mechanics can be difficult to unlearn later on. By emphasizing proper technique early players can build a solid base that will serve them well as they progress. The correct technique not only improves performance but also reduces the risk of overuse injuries, allowing young athletes to enjoy their sports for years to come.Building Mental Toughness: Strategies for Handling Pressure and Adversity
While physical skills are essential in sports, mental toughness is equally vital for success, especially in high-pressure situations. Young athletes often struggle with handling adversity, such as losing a match, making mistakes, or facing difficult opponents. As a coach, it's essential to equip them with strategies for building mental resilience, maintaining focus, and bouncing back from setbacks. Techniques like positive self-talk, visualization, and emotional control can help young players stay composed and perform at their best, even when facing challenges. By fostering mental toughness, coaches can prepare their athletes not only for success on the court but also for navigating life's challenges.The Importance of Sportsmanship and Character Development
While winning is undoubtedly a goal in sports, the lessons learned through the pursuit of victory are often more valuable than the outcome itself. As a coach, instilling values like sportsmanship, respect, teamwork, and perseverance in athletes should be a top priority. Sports provide a unique opportunity for character development, teaching players to handle both triumphs and setbacks with grace, to treat opponents and officials with respect, and to work together as a team. By emphasizing these values, coaches can help shape not only skilled athletes but also well-rounded individuals who exhibit strong character on and off the court.The Importance of Hiring a Coach
While some may view hiring a coach as an unnecessary expense, investing in quality coaching can be invaluable for an athlete's development. A good coach not only teaches the technical skills of the sport but also serves as a mentor, motivator, and role model. With their expertise and experience, coaches can identify and correct technical flaws, develop personalized training programs, and provide valuable guidance on strategy, mental preparation, and overall athletic development. Additionally, coaches can help prevent injuries by ensuring proper form and training load, ultimately allowing young athletes to stay healthy and enjoy their sports longer. Hiring a qualified coach can be a game-changer for any aspiring young athlete, providing them with the tools, support, and guidance they need to reach their full potential.Fun Drills & Games to Improve Coordination & Agility
While practice and repetition are essential for skill development, it's equally important to keep athletes engaged and having fun. Incorporating enjoyable drills and games in training sessions can help improve coordination, agility, and overall condition while preventing boredom and burnout. From ladder drills to cone weaves to reaction games, there are countless creative activities that can challenge young players' physical abilities in an enjoyable way. Not only do these drills enhance essential skills, but they also foster a love for the sports and create a positive, engaging environment for learning.Nutrition & Hydration Tips for Young Athletes
Proper nutrition and hydration are often overlooked but crucial components of an athlete's performance and recovery, especially for young players. A balanced diet rich in whole foods, lean proteins, fruits, and vegetables provides the necessary energy and nutrients for growth and athletic development. Proper hydration before, during, and after practice and competitions is essential for maintaining focus, preventing fatigue, and supporting recovery. As a coach, educating young athletes and their parents on healthy eating habits and the importance of staying hydrated can have a significant impact on their overall well-being and athletic performance.
Contact Sedge
Remember that we can schedule indoor and outdoor tennis & pickleball lessons year round! Let's talk.