In the trenches: A day in the life of a professional tennis coach

As a professional tennis coach on the WTA tour, my journey alongside Polish player Magda Linette for the past six years has been a whirlwind of evolution and growth.

The tennis landscape is ever-changing, demanding that both players and coaches adapt and improve continuously. In this article, I aim to shed light on the day-to-day life of coaches on the tour, offering insights and guidance for aspiring coaches looking to hone their craft and potentially make their mark on the ATP or WTA circuit.

Staying Present and Focused

In the fast-paced world of professional tennis, results matter. High performance is synonymous with winning, making it essential for coaches to maintain focus on the present moment. Instead of worrying about future attributes or qualifications, concentrate on the here and now. Develop a clear coaching philosophy centered around mental, physical, technical, or tactical aspects of the game and continually refine it to perfection.

Vision and Modern Technologies

A successful coach must possess a vision not only for themselves but also for the players they guide. Utilize modern technologies such as video analysis and scientifically proven protocols to enhance training sessions and performance assessments. Having a well-defined plan is crucial; each day presents an opportunity for improvement, and arriving on the court prepared is non-negotiable.

Embracing the Law of Marginal Gains

The principle of the law of marginal gains suggests that significant improvements can arise from minor, incremental enhancements across various areas. Strive to identify opportunities for a 1% improvement in every aspect of coaching, knowing that collectively, these small gains can lead to substantial progress for the player. Consistent dedication to growth and refinement is key.

​Paving the Path to Professional Coaching

For aspiring coaches dreaming of a career on the professional tour, commitment to personal development and continuous learning is paramount..

The merger combined the International Padel Federation (FIP), backed by the Professional Padel Association (PPA) and the International Padel Players Association (IPPA), and Damm, the owner of Setpoint Events which organised the World Padel Tour (WPT).

Embrace opportunities to gain experience at all levels of the game, seeking mentorship from seasoned professionals and immersing oneself in the intricacies of coaching.

​Stay resilient in the face of challenges and setbacks, knowing that each obstacle presents a chance for growth.

​In conclusion, the journey of a professional tennis coach is one of perpetual growth, adaptation, and dedication. By staying present, embracing innovation, and committing to constant improvement, aspiring coaches can pave their path to success in the dynamic world of professional tennis coaching.

Mark Gellard B.S.B.A., C.S.C.S.

• [email protected]

• FirstStrikeTennis.com

• +(1)-561-900-4191

We say…

How does a professional tennis coach balance the demands of maintaining focus on the present moment with the need to plan for the future development of their players?

We say…

Balancing the demands of staying present and focusing on the future in professional tennis coaching requires a delicate approach. Coaches must prioritize immediate performance while also considering the long-term development of their players. This entails maintaining a clear coaching philosophy that emphasizes continuous improvement in the present moment while also strategizing for the player's future growth trajectory.

You ask…

Can you provide specific examples of how modern technologies, such as video analysis, have transformed coaching methods and player performance on the WTA tour?

We say…

Modern technologies, including video analysis and scientifically proven protocols, have revolutionized coaching methods and player performance on the WTA tour. Coaches utilize video analysis to dissect players' techniques, identify areas for improvement, and develop targeted training regimens. By incorporating data-driven insights and cutting-edge technologies into their coaching practices, coaches can enhance player development and optimize performance outcomes.

You ask…

What are some common challenges that aspiring coaches may encounter when seeking mentorship from seasoned professionals, and how can they overcome these obstacles effectively?

We say…

Aspiring coaches seeking mentorship from seasoned professionals may encounter various challenges along the way. These challenges could include gaining access to experienced mentors, navigating hierarchical structures within the coaching community, and finding opportunities to learn from top-level professionals. Overcoming these obstacles requires persistence, networking, and a proactive approach to seeking mentorship opportunities. Aspiring coaches can leverage networking platforms, attend coaching conferences, and reach out to established professionals for guidance and mentorship, ultimately enhancing their coaching skills and advancing their careers in the competitive world of professional tennis coaching.

First Strike Tennis was founded in 2013 by renowned tennis coach Mark Gellard, who has spent the last 15+ years training the world’s most elite tennis players. Mark has provided his services to both the Kazakhstan Tennis Federation (KTF) and the prestigious ‘Star River Team’ in China, as well as working with some of the most successful players in the world including Martina Hingis, Kristina Kucova, Melinda Czink, Bethanie Mattek-Sands, Zarina Diyas, Danka Kovinic, Panna Udvardy, Shelby Rogers, and Magda Linette.

Mark obtained a bachelor’s degree from the University of South Alabama where he played NCAA division 1 tennis, and has subsequently become one of the few professional tennis coaches in the world to also become a certified strength and conditioning specialist through the NSCA.

He currently sits as a member on the Women's Tennis Association (WTA) CPAC where he works to improve the status of the professional tour through a multitude of projects.