My writing contribution for TFL Newsletter for this month.
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Most coaching tips usually mention about stroke productions - advising players how to hit with good technique in a match situation, however players do make same mistakes, same unforced errors from time to time. Why don't we look at players' state of mind and give them some tips?

As a human nature players want to win, they don't want to lose and as a result they are inevitably under pressure and they can't handle it.

FOUR WAYS TO HANDLE THE PRESSURE:

1/ Breath in deeply and breath out slowly: when players are nervous they have found themselves short of breath.

2/ Sing a song: Sing a good piece of music or think of a good joke to help your mind relaxed.

3/ Look at a ball on a specific part: For example, ball with the word 'Wilson - Trainer'. By doing this your mind really focus and ease the nervousness.

4/ Have a happy feet: On your toes (ball of feet), do a split step; bend your knees to have good anticipation. Keep your feet moving!

About 80% of ground strokes which are not optimal are caused by footwork.

Don Hoang