3.05

Hi ladies,

We are half way through the season and in first place in our division. This is no time to become complacent and overconfident. We haven't achieved anything yet, so I need for us to stayed focused on getting better with each match we play. I understand that some of you if not all of you lack confidence in yourselves to sustain a high level of play throughout an entire match. I get that you may feel as though you can't come up with good shots on a consistent basis. I get that when the mistakes pile up, you feel as though you;ll never be able to do what you're suppose to do or what I ask and train you to do. I'm here to tell you that you can reach a level of consistency that you will all be happy with. In order to do so you have to start believing in yourselves more. Change comes from within and only you have the power to do that. I'm totally fine with you getting on yourselves for making mistakes. That's normal, I'm more concerned with how you will respond to the mistakes. Are you going to make the right adjustments to the shots you are attempting, or are you going to continue making the same mistakes over and over. You always say to yourselves what you should've have done after the fact. Now it's time to do it the right way when you need to most. A lot of times the mistakes happen from a lack of timing, preparations or footwork. Change your outlook on the outcome before it happens. Don't assume you're going to miss the shot. Tell yourself you're going to make the shot. Assume your shots are going in, not in the net or out. Help yourselves by hitting the ball and preparing for the next shot. Don't be afraid to make mistakes as long as you're going for the right shot(s). The quicker you learn from your mistakes, the faster you will improve. Remember that you are working towards a bigger goal for yourself and for this team.

Let's play to win tomorrow night. Trust your shots and be confident. Let's not continue making the mistake of hitting the ball to the net player when their partner is back at the baseline. When one player is back at the baseline, this allows you to use the angles on your volleys and overheads. Hitting to the deeper person also buys you time to get into position for the next shot. Don't attempt too many lobs when your opponents are at the service line. Drive the ball up the middle of the court or towards the alleys. The less time your opponents have to react to the ball, the less time they have to prepare for the ball. For my singles players, make your opponents hit shots on the move. Preferably moving side to side. Use the drop shot from time to time if they struggle moving forward to the ball. Take your time and remember that you never win playing your opponents game. Trust what you do best and be patient while setting up the point to get the shot you want. I believe in you ladies, let's get the job done while we continue on working towards greatness.

Always believe,

Shaun.