The following post is an excerpt from Match Day Preparation. Thanks for visiting, Frank Giampaolo
Opponent Profiling(*)
Top competitors are continually seeking an advantage. One of the best strategic (mental) and calming (emotional) advantages comes from scouting an upcoming opponent. Casually observing is one thing, but profiling the opponent is a skill set. Each playing style has an inherent group of strengths and weaknesses. Opponent awareness is an important part of match day preparation. Player profiling involves looking past strokes.
NOTE: Opponent profiling prior to match is not always possible.
Answer the following questions with a simple Yes or No.
- Scout an upcoming opponent beforehand? Yes/No
- Scout opponent’s primary style of play? Yes/No
- Scout opponent’s preferred serve patterns (especially on mega points)? Yes/No
- Scout opponent’s preferred return of serve position and shot selection on both first and second serve returns? Yes/No
- Scout opponent’s favorite go-to rally pattern? Yes/No
- Scout opponent’s dominant short-ball option? Yes/No
- Scout opponent’s preferred net rushing pattern? Yes/No
- Scout opponent’s stroke strengths and weaknesses? (Advanced players should also consider the strengths and limitations of strike zones)? Yes/No
- Scout opponent’s movement, agility and stamina strengths and weaknesses? Yes/No
- Scout opponent’s frustration tolerance, focus, and emotional stability? Yes/No
- Do you continue to scout (pay attention to) these critical clues during the match? Yes/No
(*) Opponent profiling should continue from the pre-match phase, all the way through the actual match and into the post-match. A smart player is continually looking for a crack in their opponent’s game. This includes the physical, mental and emotional components of the game.
Contact: Frank Giampaolo
FGSA@earthlink.net
MaximizingTennisPotential.com
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