Compete Like a Champion: Recent Episodes

Dr. Larry Lauer and Coach Johnny Parkes

The best athletes are always looking to gain an edge on the competition. In Compete Like a Champion, Dr. Larry Lauer and Coach Johnny Parkes from USTA Player Development will explore all aspects of high performance tennis and what it takes to become a successful athlete. Our hosts will provide useful tips for tennis players, coaches, and parents.

Visit www.playerdevelopment.usta.com for more resources.

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After a month on tour, Coach Johnny returns to CLC to discuss his observations and how they benefit younger players. For more information find us at Dr. Larry and Coach Johnny on X: @LarryLauer / @johnnyparkes1 Instagram: @johnny_parkes USTA PD Website: http://www.playerdevelopment.usta.com/podcasts/?

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Following up to the Resilient Confident Competitor episode, Coach Johnny presents an off-court to on-court drill progression for working on a pressure situation. We discuss the details of how to successfully train a player to handle a pressure situation and to be resilient and confident. For more information find us at Dr. Larry and Coach Johnny on X: @LarryLauer / @johnnyparkes1 Instagram: @johnny_parkes USTA PD Website: http://www.playerdevelopment.usta.com/podcasts/?

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The team discusses Dr. Jim Loehr's legacy as a trailblazer in performance psychology, tennis mental toughness, and character development through sport. From there we dive into the differences between fragile and resilient confidence, and what makes a player resilient, confident and an excellent competitor. For more information find us at Dr. Larry and Coach Johnny on X: @LarryLauer / @johnnyparkes1 Instagram: @johnny_parkes USTA PD Website: http://www.playerdevelopment.usta.com/podcasts/?

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In a follow up to the Wheelchair episode Coaches Rob Smith and Jason Harnett describe the Hub Drill and how it is similar to working with able-bodied players. The hope is that knowing the similarities will encourage coaches to work with wheelchair players. Find the Hub drill at https://youtu.be/6IN9M7tTbqk For more information find us at Dr. Larry and Coach Johnny on X: @LarryLauer / @johnnyparkes1 Instagram: @johnny_parkes USTA PD Website: http://www.playerdevelopment.usta.com/podcasts/?

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Guests Jason Harnett and Rob Cross of the USTA takes through the history of wheelchair tennis in its 50th Anniversary year and how it has evolved during that time. We discuss the similarities between wheelchair and stand up tennis, as well as the differences for coaching players that are in a chair. The team also talks about how the trauma players experience affects the coach-player relationship. For more information find us at Dr. Larry and Coach Johnny on X: @LarryLauer / @johnnyparkes1 Instagram: @johnny_parkes USTA PD Website: http://www.playerdevelopment.usta.com/podcasts/?

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This skill drill follows up on the conversation with Coach Mike Barrell discussing Coach Johnny's use of adversity cards. We discuss how to effectively apply pressure in training, and some of the specific things a coach can do to create success. For more information find us at Dr. Larry and Coach Johnny on X: @LarryLauer / @johnnyparkes1 Instagram: @johnny_parkes USTA PD Website: http://www.playerdevelopment.usta.com/podcasts/?

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Coach Mike Barrell joins us for a lively and in depth examination about what it means to be a coach. We dive into the 3 different and interconnected roles as a coach, and how to understand players to increase motivation. This is a must listen for all coaches wanting examine more deeply their role as a coach. For more information find us at Dr. Larry and Coach Johnny on X: @LarryLauer / @johnnyparkes1 Instagram: @johnny_parkes USTA PD Website: http://www.playerdevelopment.usta.com/podcasts/?

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In the first skill drill episode of 2026 CLC goes into detail about how to prepare mentally in the morning. Dr. Larry & Coach Johnny share 4 exercises that will help you feel focused, at ease, and ready to perform. For more information find us at Dr. Larry and Coach Johnny on X: @LarryLauer / @johnnyparkes1 Instagram: @johnny_parkes USTA PD Website: http://www.playerdevelopment.usta.com/podcasts/?

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Craig Jones of the USTA joins us to discuss how USTA Coaching is taking an updated approach to developing coaches. We discuss the new USTA Coaching program and why the approach will work to support athlete-centered training, and motivate coaches to engage in life-long learning. Go to ustacoaching.com for more coaching resources and courses. For more information find us at Dr. Larry and Coach Johnny on X: @LarryLauer / @johnnyparkes1 Instagram: @johnny_parkes USTA PD Website: http://www.playerdevelopment.usta.com/podcasts/?

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Welcome to the start of a new year, and we are talking about how to get off to a good start. Too often players are excited initially but then frustrated about the beginning to they year with struggles with underperformance and anxiety. We talk about a plan prepare for the beginning of your year and for having perspective. For more information find us at Dr. Larry and Coach Johnny on X: @LarryLauer / @johnnyparkes1 Instagram: @johnny_parkes USTA PD Website: http://www.playerdevelopment.usta.com/podcasts/?

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CLC is back with a new episode to challenge traditional expectations about mental skills learning and training. We talk about how to enhance mental training so that players can master mental skills and transfer their learning to matches. For more information find us at Dr. Larry and Coach Johnny on X: @LarryLauer / @johnnyparkes1 Instagram: @johnny_parkes USTA PD Website: http://www.playerdevelopment.usta.com/podcasts/?

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In this skill drill episode we discuss how to match recovery strategies to the issue the player is experiencing. We all discuss how the best recovery could be preventive techniques and routines. For more information find us at Dr. Larry and Coach Johnny on X: @LarryLauer / @johnnyparkes1 Instagram: @johnny_parkes USTA PD Website: http://www.playerdevelopment.usta.com/podcasts/?

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Recovery from training and competition is often underappreciated and unplanned based on how the player is feeling physically, mentally, and emotionally. In this episode we discuss when to do what type of recovery. And, to be successful at this the player must become more aware of what they need and the coaches and parents more attentive to those needs. For more information find us at Dr. Larry and Coach Johnny on X: @LarryLauer / @johnnyparkes1 Instagram: @johnny_parkes USTA PD Website: http://www.playerdevelopment.usta.com/podcasts/?

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The 2025 US Open is in the rear view mirror. Johnny and Dr. Larry reflect on the ingredients needed to perform in a high pressure, high stakes environment. This included regulating emotions, being flexible and consistent, finding moderation in an extreme world, and how the growth mindset allows players to continue to be the best in the world. We examine the comeback of Anisimova and the composure of Sabalenka. And, we discuss the dominance of Alcaraz and Sinner. For more information find us at Dr. Larry and Coach Johnny on X: @LarryLauer / @johnnyparkes1 Instagram: @johnny_parkes USTA PD Website: http://www.playerdevelopment.usta.com/podcasts/?

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In a follow-up to the yellow light misconceptions the team covers how to practice yellow light situations. From the conversation prior to the practice to the designing of the situation, we provide in depth analysis on how to best to prepare for pivotal points in the match. For more information find us at Dr. Larry and Coach Johnny on X: @LarryLauer / @johnnyparkes1 Instagram: @johnny_parkes USTA PD Website: http://www.playerdevelopment.usta.com/podcasts/?

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Players use different between point routines based on the traffic light system (green, yellow, red lights). What are these yellow lights? When do they happen? Dr. Larry describes the biggest misconceptions about yellow lights that keep players from performing. For more information find us at Dr. Larry and Coach Johnny on X: @LarryLauer / @johnnyparkes1 Instagram: @johnny_parkes USTA PD Website: http://www.playerdevelopment.usta.com/podcasts/?

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In this skill drill we discuss how to prepare for challenging, teachable moments in practice, and how you can coach yourself during these moments. We provide specific questions you want to be asking yourself as you go through tough moments and try to turn them into teachable moments. For more information find us at Dr. Larry and Coach Johnny on X: @LarryLauer / @johnnyparkes1 Instagram: @johnny_parkes USTA PD Website: http://www.playerdevelopment.usta.com/podcasts/?

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How do we avoid "pinball coaching" and optimize learning? What can players do to prepare to learn, stay engaged as they execute in practice, and retain more of what they are learning in practice? How can we create better teachable moments in practice? Some of our thoughts might surprise you... For more information find us at Dr. Larry and Coach Johnny on X: @LarryLauer / @johnnyparkes1 Instagram: @johnny_parkes USTA PD Website: http://www.playerdevelopment.usta.com/podcasts/?

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How do you prepare players to move from slow to fast courts or vice versa? Johnny and Larry break it down in the latest skill drill episode. Johnny offers up 4 games coaches can use to make the transition. And, we discuss how to create a mindset of accepting and embracing a change in surface. For more information find us at Dr. Larry and Coach Johnny on X: @LarryLauer / @johnnyparkes1 Instagram: @johnny_parkes USTA PD Website: http://www.playerdevelopment.usta.com/podcasts/?

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CLC is back after a month of traveling and tournaments. Coach Johnny shares his reflections from the collegiate season and what that could mean for all players and coaches. We get into match preparation, dealing with fatigue, home court advantage, and adapting to a surface change. For more information find us at Dr. Larry and Coach Johnny on X: @LarryLauer / @johnnyparkes1 Instagram: @johnny_parkes USTA PD Website: http://www.playerdevelopment.usta.com/podcasts/?

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What is mental fatigue? Is it for real? It is actually, but it is difficult to describe for the player. In this podcast we define it, discuss the signs and symptoms, and examine how it impacts our performance. We dive deeper into strategies and habits for preventing and overcoming mental fatigue at the end of the podcast. For more information find us at Dr. Larry and Coach Johnny on X: @LarryLauer / @johnnyparkes1 Instagram: @johnny_parkes USTA PD Website: http://www.playerdevelopment.usta.com/podcasts/?

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Awareness on the court is essential to performance and learning. In this skill drill we talk about using on-court mindfulness to overcome boredom and loss of focus, specially in situations such as when the opponent take a "bathroom break". Mindfulness on-court also aids mental training off-court. We discuss creating the connection between the off-court and on-court training of a quiet mind and greater awareness in the present without judgment. For more information find us at Dr. Larry and Coach Johnny on X: @LarryLauer / @johnnyparkes1 Instagram: @johnny_parkes USTA PD Website: http://www.playerdevelopment.usta.com/podcasts/?

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The Spanish method to teaching tennis has historically emphasized the idea of "suffering" through repetitive, montonous drills. This episode covers two drills (included in The Secrets of Spanish Tennis book written by Lewit) taught by Pato Alvarez and Lluis Bruguera that emphasize enduring physically demanding conditions. We discuss how that might translate better in American society. We also detail physical and mental aspects of these drills, the benefits, and ways to adjust them to meet your players' needs. For more information find us at Dr. Larry and Coach Johnny on X: @LarryLauer / @johnnyparkes1 Instagram: @johnny_parkes USTA PD Website: http://www.playerdevelopment.usta.com/podcasts/?

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Chris Lewit, author of The Secrets of Spanish Tennis, joins CLC to discuss the history of Spanish tennis. We dive deep into the Spanish philosophy, the six foundational pillars, and where it came from. We also discuss how it was brought to the US by Jose Higueras, and how Spanish is (or must) evolve in the modern game. Further, we get into the Spanish competitor and how they are developed. To learn more about Coach Chris Lewit's work find him on youtube.com. For more information find us at Dr. Larry and Coach Johnny on X: @LarryLauer / @johnnyparkes1 Instagram: @johnny_parkes USTA PD Website: http://www.playerdevelopment.usta.com/podcasts/?

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Chris Lewit, author of The Secrets of Spanish Tennis, joins CLC to discuss the history of Spanish tennis. We dive deep into the Spanish philosophy, the six foundational pillars, and where it came from. We also discuss how it was brought to the US by Jose Higueras, and how Spanish is (or must) evolve in the modern game. Further, we get into the Spanish competitor and how they are developed. To learn more about Coach Chris Lewit's work find him on youtube.com. For more information find us at Dr. Larry and Coach Johnny on X: @LarryLauer / @johnnyparkes1 Instagram: @johnny_parkes USTA PD Website: http://www.playerdevelopment.usta.com/podcasts/?

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Being bored is a bad thing, right? Maybe not. Should we be actually looking for moments of boredom and do they benefit us? We dive into the experience of boredom in our lives and in high performance tennis and how it could relate to being a more present self. For more information find us at Dr. Larry and Coach Johnny on X: @LarryLauer / @johnnyparkes1 Instagram: @johnny_parkes USTA PD Website: http://www.playerdevelopment.usta.com/podcasts/?

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In the first skill drill of the year Coach Johnny and Dr. Larry talk about creative ways to improve when you are injured. For more information find us at Dr. Larry and Coach Johnny on X: @LarryLauer / @johnnyparkes1 Instagram: @johnny_parkes USTA PD Website: http://www.playerdevelopment.usta.com/podcasts/?

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In our opening episode of 2025 we delve how coaches can help players deal effectively with the initial uncertainty and stress of an injury, and the rehab process. This episode provides specific recommendations on how to stay positive and moving forward through rehab. See article Johnny mentioned: Gould, D., Petlichkoff, L. M., Prentice, B., & Tedeschi, F. (2000). Psychology of Sports Injuries, 11(1). Gatorade Sports Science Institute. https://www.iahsaa.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/PsychologyofSportsInjuries.pdf For more information find us at Dr. Larry and Coach Johnny on X: @LarryLauer / @johnnyparkes1 Instagram: @johnny_parkes USTA PD Website: http://www.playerdevelopment.usta.com/podcasts/?

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At the end of the year tennis players and coaches reflect on their expriences to develop important and meaningful goals. The quality of that reflection will determine the quality of the goals. This episode dives into using reflection as a way to improve your performance. In addition, we discuss another practice that is often used at this time of year, gratitude, and the link between reflection and gratitude. For more information find us at Dr. Larry and Coach Johnny on X: @LarryLauer / @johnnyparkes1 Instagram: @johnny_parkes USTA PD Website: http://www.playerdevelopment.usta.com/podcasts/?

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Off-Court coaching is coming to ITF tournaments. Coaches, have you planned with the player how you will communicate? In this episode we discuss how to work on off-court coaching by simulating the match situation. We also examine the kinds of conversations that can enhance and detract from performance. For more information find us at Dr. Larry and Coach Johnny on X: @LarryLauer / @johnnyparkes1 Instagram: @johnny_parkes USTA PD Website: http://www.playerdevelopment.usta.com/podcasts/?

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The ITF is allowing off-court coaching during matches. Coach Johnny and Dr. Larry walk through the rule change and the pro's and con's. BBC article: https://www.bbc.com/sport/tennis/articles/cglklyl048no ITF announcement https://youtu.be/da6FUbMMe2s?si=4X0Ne-7puHBjYElw For more information find us at Dr. Larry and Coach Johnny on X: @LarryLauer / @johnnyparkes1 Instagram: @johnny_parkes USTA PD Website: http://www.playerdevelopment.usta.com/podcasts/?

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Outtoughing an opponent requires perseverance, and that is something that can be trained. In this skill drill episode we offer two games that will help challenge your players to hang in there through longer periods of playing. Along with the games we discuss the psychological dynamics at play and how to coach the players through it. For more information find us at Dr. Larry and Coach Johnny on X: @LarryLauer / @johnnyparkes1 Instagram: @johnny_parkes USTA PD Website: http://www.playerdevelopment.usta.com/podcasts/?

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Mental toughness has many definitions, but how are you defining toughness? Johnny and Larry discuss Boston Celtic Jayson Tatum's definition of mental toughness and how that can make a huge difference in how junior players view match-ups and approach matches with (or without) confidence. Tatum article: https://www.si.com/nba/celtics/jayson-tatum-details-how-celtics-combatting-opponents-trying-to-outtough-them For more information find us at Dr. Larry and Coach Johnny on X: @LarryLauer / @johnnyparkes1 Instagram: @johnny_parkes USTA PD Website: http://www.playerdevelopment.usta.com/podcasts/?

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As coaches we often try to avoid angering players on court, because it is difficult to work with players when angry. However, for players to experience success while angry they must work "anger triggers" in training. Johnny and Larry discuss how to coach players through times of anger, and provide a progression to manage anger and channel it into productive responses. For more information find us at Dr. Larry and Coach Johnny on X: @LarryLauer / @johnnyparkes1 Instagram: @johnny_parkes USTA PD Website: http://www.playerdevelopment.usta.com/podcasts/?

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Discussions about anger in sport and in tennis are too simplistic; it's not just "bad" or "get it out and get on with it". In this episode we talk about anger in depth and why, in most cases, anger doesn't enhance performance. We also talk about anger "presets" in the brain and how to overcome angry responses. This is a must listen for all coaches and parents of junior players! For more information find us at Dr. Larry and Coach Johnny on Twitter: @LarryLauer / @johnnyparkes1 Instagram: @johnny_parkes USTA PD Website: http://www.playerdevelopment.usta.com/podcasts/?

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It's Deal or No Deal time on CLC. Coach Johnny explains an exercise he does to help players prepare for environmental, individual, and task factors that can effect performance at an upcoming tournament. We detail not only how to do the exercise but what to consider so the player can feel prepared and not overwhelmed. For more information find us at Dr. Larry and Coach Johnny on Twitter: @LarryLauer / @johnnyparkes1 Instagram: @johnny_parkes USTA PD Website: http://www.playerdevelopment.usta.com/podcasts/?

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In honor of the Olympics we talk about how to prepare for a big tournament. With junior national championships, ITFs and the US Open just around the corner, it's wise to have a plan on how you will prepare to compete well. We talk about some of the most important factors you want to consider as you prepare including not making it big and other ways performers undermine themselves, how to prepare the week before, and how to minimize and deal with distractions. For more information find us at Dr. Larry and Coach Johnny on Twitter: @LarryLauer / @johnnyparkes1 Instagram: @johnny_parkes USTA PD Website: http://www.playerdevelopment.usta.com/podcasts/?

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Players have on-court drills they don't enjoy, but are good for us. How do we help players to not just survive these difficult drills, but thrive through them? We discuss how to set-up, execute, and debrief these difficult drills and turn them into challenges to overcome. For more information find us at Dr. Larry and Coach Johnny on Twitter: @LarryLauer / @johnnyparkes1 Instagram: @johnny_parkes USTA PD Website: http://www.playerdevelopment.usta.com/podcasts/?

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Motivation is great when we are feeling it, but what about when we are not feeling motivated? CLC gets into the topic of commitment, and how it is greater than motivation. We discuss how to facilitate commitment in teens and children. For more information find us at Dr. Larry and Coach Johnny on Twitter: @LarryLauer / @johnnyparkes1 Instagram: @johnny_parkes USTA PD Website: http://www.playerdevelopment.usta.com/podcasts/?

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In this skill drill we talk about the different player motives of goals, values, expectations, fears and emotions and how to tap into them to creater greater effort. For more information find us at Dr. Larry and Coach Johnny on Twitter: @LarryLauer / @johnnyparkes1 Instagram: @johnny_parkes USTA PD Website: http://www.playerdevelopment.usta.com/podcasts/?

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In the first of a series on motivation, CLC examines why we can't truly motivate our players, but can guide or facilitate it. We also explore all the different motives a player might have and how that impacts our coaching and parenting. In addition, we pay close attention to how the training environment influences motivation. For more information find us at Dr. Larry and Coach Johnny on Twitter: @LarryLauer / @johnnyparkes1 Instagram: @johnny_parkes USTA PD Website: http://www.playerdevelopment.usta.com/podcasts/? https://agilescrumguide.com/blog/files/tuckman-2023-update.html

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CLC finishes the discussion on developing performance teams by going deep into how to practically use Tuckman's team cohesion model. The goal is to move your team from forming to performing, and how to navigate each stage including adjourning successfully. For more information find us at Dr. Larry and Coach Johnny on Twitter: @LarryLauer / @johnnyparkes1 Instagram: @johnny_parkes USTA PD Website: http://www.playerdevelopment.usta.com/podcasts/? https://agilescrumguide.com/blog/files/tuckman-2023-update.html

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Coach Johnny and Dr. Larry discuss three models of team formation, development of teams over time, and how to become an effective team (especially a support team for the tennis player). This episode is crucial for parents hiring coaches and other experts to support their child in tennis. It's also crucial for coaches to understand how to move a group to becoming a high functioning team. Finally, players will learn how to function within a team environment, which maybe brand new to them. Orginal article is found online at: https://positivepsychology.com/psychology-teamwork/ For more information find us at Dr. Larry and Coach Johnny on Twitter: @LarryLauer / @johnnyparkes1 Instagram: @johnny_parkes USTA PD Website: http://www.playerdevelopment.usta.com/podcasts/?

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In the first skill drill episode of 2024 we discuss how to help players coach themselves where they are balancing challenge and support in a difficult drill. From this episode you will hear about ways to help players develop more honest constructive criticism for themselves, and how the coach plays a primary role in shaping how players coach themselves. For more information find us at Dr. Larry and Coach Johnny on Twitter: @LarryLauer / @johnnyparkes1 Instagram: @johnny_parkes USTA PD Website: http://www.playerdevelopment.usta.com/podcasts/?

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Tennis is an individual sport, however, the teams around the player are important to the player's development and performance. In this first episode of 2024, we discuss why you would create a team, how to set them up, and what makes teams functional and dysfunctional. This episode is for everyone as even an 8 year old starting out has a team: parents, coach, and the player. For more information find us at Dr. Larry and Coach Johnny on Twitter: @LarryLauer / @johnnyparkes1 Instagram: @johnny_parkes USTA PD Website: http://www.playerdevelopment.usta.com/podcasts/?

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In this final episode of the year we reflect on three of our favorite podcasts. We also discuss how to reflect and plan for the new year in a critical, self-compassionate manner. Coach Johnny and Dr. Larry share how they are reflecting and planning for '24. For more information find us at Dr. Larry and Coach Johnny on Twitter: @LarryLauer / @johnnyparkes1 Instagram: @johnny_parkes USTA PD Website: http://www.playerdevelopment.usta.com/podcasts/?

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CLC's interview of master coach Richard Ashby. Coach Ashby has worked many of the best American female players when they were young. He discusses his philosophy, how he developed his coaching expertise, and best practices for coaching (and teaching) with younger tennis players. Many gems here including how he helps the player take ownership and create future habits for success. For more information find us at Dr. Larry and Coach Johnny on Twitter: @LarryLauer / @johnnyparkes1 Instagram: @johnny_parkes USTA PD Website: http://www.playerdevelopment.usta.com/podcasts/?

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Johnny and Larry discuss how to cue players during on court drills and how that is influenced by the player's stage of learning. We examine why when players are learning something new (such as a refocusing routine) we need to slow it down. We also talk about how and when to speed things up and keep the drill or game going. Cues for eliciting a green or yellow light between points routine are detailed as well. For more information find us at Dr. Larry and Coach Johnny on Twitter: @LarryLauer / @johnnyparkes1 Instagram: @johnny_parkes USTA PD Website: http://www.playerdevelopment.usta.com/podcasts/?

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CLC team reviews its roadshow at the USPTA world convention. We get into how to integrate mental skills into your every day drills. We also discuss how to create pressure, and not just relying on consequences. To do mental skills work in practice requires planning and a keen focus. Listen to this podcast to prep for your next on court mental session. For more information find us at Dr. Larry and Coach Johnny on Twitter: @LarryLauer / @johnnyparkes1 Instagram: @johnny_parkes USTA PD Website: http://www.playerdevelopment.usta.com/podcasts/?

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Coach Johnny walks our audience through a drilll working on defending. Larry and Johnny discuss how the drill can be used to develop determination in players, and the mental skills that a player would apply to show determination in a tough drill. For more information find us at Dr. Larry and Coach Johnny on Twitter: @LarryLauer / @johnnyparkes1 Instagram: @johnny_parkes USTA PD Website: http://www.playerdevelopment.usta.com/podcasts/?

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What happened at the 2023 US Open that we can learn and apply to ourselves? Johnny and Larry discuss CoCo's resilience, Ben's energy, and Novak's determination. We dive into the topic of what kind of environment creates a confident competitor as well as what kind of motivation we observe in champions (it might surprise you). For more information find us at Dr. Larry and Coach Johnny on Twitter: @LarryLauer / @johnnyparkes1 Instagram: @johnny_parkes USTA PD Website: http://www.playerdevelopment.usta.com/podcasts/?

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Do you use the towel during matches? Are you using it to truly refocus? This episode will help you use the towel as a means to refocus in between points. Coach Johnny and Dr. Larry discuss what the meaning of the towel could be instead of just wiping off sweat. We talk about how to incorporate mental skills into a towel ritual and how to find an optimal performance state more consistently. For more information find us at Dr. Larry and Coach Johnny on Twitter: @LarryLauer / @johnnyparkes1 Instagram: @johnny_parkes USTA PD Website: http://www.playerdevelopment.usta.com/podcasts/?

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The CLC team talks about 3 common myths in tennis. Going fast to avoid thinking, more is more, and angry outburts to let go. We discuss why these exists and why they are ineffective. We offer solutions to each of these myths, as well. For more information find us at Dr. Larry and Coach Johnny on Twitter: @LarryLauer / @johnnyparkes1 Instagram: @johnny_parkes USTA PD Website: http://www.playerdevelopment.usta.com/podcasts/?

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This episode is about how to simulate major competition environments. We discuss the specifics on how a coach can adjust the timing, rewards/consequences, and stressors to simulate the environment of a Slam or major tournament. For more information find us at Dr. Larry and Coach Johnny on Twitter: @LarryLauer / @johnnyparkes1 Instagram: @johnny_parkes USTA PD Website: http://www.playerdevelopment.usta.com/podcasts/?

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How do you prepare players for major competitions? The team discusses Professional Tennis Coach David Sammel's 5 Factors for Coaching at Grand Slams (Leaders in Sport newsletter). These competitions could be the local championship or a Grand Slam. For more information find us at Dr. Larry and Coach Johnny on Twitter: @LarryLauer / @johnnyparkes1 Instagram: @johnny_parkes USTA PD Website: http://www.playerdevelopment.usta.com/podcasts/?

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In this skill drill episode we talk about how to maintain perspective while competing, and how to practice it. We discuss the long-term perspective, delaying gratification, and psychological skills and/or concepts that will help players maintain perspective while competing. We also dive into how to shape behavior. For more information find us at Dr. Larry and Coach Johnny on Twitter: @LarryLauer / @johnnyparkes1 Instagram: @johnny_parkes USTA PD Website: http://www.playerdevelopment.usta.com/podcasts/?

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In this episode we interview Clinical Psychologist and former professional tennis player Dr. Shawn Foltz-Emmons about competition in perspective. The conversation moved from what a healthy perspective is to why many struggle to have a healthy perspective of competition in tennis. We also examined how to create perspective within others. This interview went deep into what competing is all about and is a must for parents, coaches, and players. Learn more about Dr. Shawn's work at https://www.drfoltzemmons.com/about and for more information find us at Dr. Larry and Coach Johnny on Twitter: @LarryLauer / @johnnyparkes1 Instagram: @johnny_parkes USTA PD Website: http://www.playerdevelopment.usta.com/podcasts/?

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Time to tackle excuse-making on court. Coach Johnny and Dr. Larry share games you can play in practice to challenge a player's perceptions of what is happening and why. We also get into the importance of asking questions and countering the excuses in vivo or live! Dr. Larry and Coach Johnny on Twitter: @LarryLauer / @johnnyparkes1 Instagram: @johnny_parkes USTA PD Website: http://www.playerdevelopment.usta.com/podcasts/?

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Are excuses always bad or could they play a protective role? How do we know when to call out excuses? This episode will have you think about excuses in a way that hopefully creates more transparent and open conversation with players. Dr. Larry and Coach Johnny on Twitter: @LarryLauer / @johnnyparkes1 Instagram: @johnny_parkes USTA PD Website: http://www.playerdevelopment.usta.com/podcasts/?

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Skill Drill time again! In this episode we discuss how work on players hitting out on ball and making good decisions under pressure using games. Dr. Larry and Coach Johnny on Twitter: @LarryLauer / @johnnyparkes1 Instagram: @johnny_parkes USTA PD Website: http://www.playerdevelopment.usta.com/podcasts/?

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Inspired by Navy Seal Pete Naschak's talk on the Art of the Debrief, Johnny and Larry discuss their thoughts on how to debrief after matches. The common pitfalls of debriefs were discussed, as was how to approach the debrief including setting the expectation, making it a safe space, staying goal-focused, facilitating versus telling, and summarizing. Dr. Larry and Coach Johnny on Twitter: @LarryLauer / @johnnyparkes1 Instagram: @johnny_parkes USTA PD Website: http://www.playerdevelopment.usta.com/podcasts/?

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It's skills and drills time again! Our focus is on how to practice bouncing back from a break. It's a simple game but a challenging one that encourages players to be resilient. Dr. Larry and Coach Johnny on Twitter: @LarryLauer / @johnnyparkes1 Instagram: @johnny_parkes USTA PD Website: http://www.playerdevelopment.usta.com/podcasts/?

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The team covers 7 ways coaches can help players develop their capacity to bounce back or be resilient. We also talk about what it does for players when they see other players comeback from match point down (see Andy Murray). Dr. Larry and Coach Johnny on Twitter: @LarryLauer / @johnnyparkes1 Instagram: @johnny_parkes USTA PD Website: http://www.playerdevelopment.usta.com/podcasts/?

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In our first skill drill of '23 we discuss how to take the concept of focus and, specifically, channels of internal-external, narrow-broad from the TAIS model and practice them. The keys are to know what to focus on when and how to shift to that focus channel. The drills we describe will help with shifting focus. Dr. Larry and Coach Johnny on Twitter: @LarryLauer / @johnnyparkes1 Instagram: @johnny_parkes USTA PD Website: http://www.playerdevelopment.usta.com/podcasts/?

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This podcast is for any player who struggles to focus and attention to the appropriate cues. We cover the TAIS model and how to teach it to players. Examples are provided for each of the 4 channels of attention. We also cover the key concept of shifting attention and ways to train it. Dr. Larry and Coach Johnny on Twitter: @LarryLauer / @johnnyparkes1 Instagram: @johnny_parkes USTA PD Website: http://www.playerdevelopment.usta.com/podcasts/?

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In the first episode of 2023 Dr. Larry and Coach Johnny return to discuss the Australian Open. We examine what has the Americans doing so well and how they can keep the momentum going! Dr. Larry and Coach Johnny on Twitter: @LarryLauer / @johnnyparkes1 Instagram: @johnny_parkes USTA PD Website: http://www.playerdevelopment.usta.com/podcasts/?

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Our next drill is how to lead an effective pre-season meeting. While it may seem straightforward, if led with planning and foresight, the pre-season meeting can be a difference-maker in a player's motivation, focus, and confidence. We go through the four parts of a pre-season meeting and how to make the most of the time together as a team with the player. Dr. Larry and Coach Johnny on Twitter: @LarryLauer / @johnnyparkes1 Instagram: @johnny_parkes USTA PD Website: http://www.playerdevelopment.usta.com/podcasts/?

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In the this latest episode we discuss the pre-season and how to maximize its effectiveness. The purpose of a pre-season for pros, and what it might look like for juniors is also discussed. We detail the progression from the start of the pre-season to how to finish the pre-season. Dr. Larry and Coach Johnny on Twitter: @LarryLauer / @johnnyparkes1 Instagram: @johnny_parkes USTA PD Website: http://www.playerdevelopment.usta.com/podcasts/?

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How do we make warm-ups fun and, yet, appropriate? The CLC team details how to develop warm-ups that engage the players. Coach Johnny provides several creative ways to do warm-up activites and we discuss raising the intensity of the warm-up. Dr. Larry and Coach Johnny on Twitter: @LarryLauer / @johnnyparkes1 Instagram: @johnny_parkes USTA PD Website: http://www.playerdevelopment.usta.com/podcasts/?

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Coach Johnny leads the way as we discuss the physical, mental and emotional benefits of warm-ups specifically designed to develop the athelte. In this episode we discuss how to use the warm-up to prepare for practice and matches, but also create better athletes. Dr. Larry and Coach Johnny on Twitter: @LarryLauer / @johnnyparkes1 Instagram: @johnny_parkes USTA PD Website: http://www.playerdevelopment.usta.com/podcasts/?

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In this skill drill episode we describe how to enhance awarness of patterns of play through a progression of three on-court games. In addition, we cover the prepare, execute, and reflection cycle and how that applies to this drill. Dr. Larry and Coach Johnny on Twitter: @LarryLauer / @johnnyparkes1 Instagram: @johnny_parkes USTA PD Website: http://www.playerdevelopment.usta.com/podcasts/?

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Problem-solving is seen as a core component of competing in tennis (and in other sports, as well). To be a great problem-solver one must have awareness of what is happening in the moment. In this episode Coach Johnny and Dr. Larry, motivated by a recent discussion with tennis coaches, discuss how to develop awareness and problem-solving skills. We offer up a problem-solving cycle that increases players adeptness at problem-solving. Dr. Larry and Coach Johnny on Twitter: @LarryLauer / @johnnyparkes1 Instagram: @johnny_parkes USTA PD Website: http://www.playerdevelopment.usta.com/podcasts/?

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Why promote stress in practice? Why simulate tennis scenarios? We discuss and then share a game that coaches can use to create "good" stress in practice. Dr. Larry and Coach Johnny on Twitter: @LarryLauer / @johnnyparkes1 Instagram: @johnny_parkes USTA PD Website: http://www.playerdevelopment.usta.com/podcasts/?

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Why promote stress in practice? Why simulate tennis scenarios? We discuss and then share a game that coaches can use to create "good" stress in practice. Dr. Larry and Coach Johnny on Twitter: @LarryLauer / @johnnyparkes1 Instagram: @johnny_parkes USTA PD Website: http://www.playerdevelopment.usta.com/podcasts/?

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How much are we talking versus listening in tennis? CLC dives into why we need to listen to the athletes more and why sometimes we don't listen. We also talk about ways to improve your listening. Dr. Larry and Coach Johnny on Twitter: @LarryLauer / @johnnyparkes1 Instagram: @johnny_parkes USTA PD Website: http://www.playerdevelopment.usta.com/podcasts/?

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How much are we talking versus listening in tennis? CLC dives into why we need to listen to the athletes more and why sometimes we don't listen. We also talk about ways to improve your listening. Dr. Larry and Coach Johnny on Twitter: @LarryLauer / @johnnyparkes1 Instagram: @johnny_parkes USTA PD Website: http://www.playerdevelopment.usta.com/podcasts/?

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The latest skill drill episode tackles how to work on playing in distracting and new environments. We discuss an example distraction drill in practice, and set it up to maximize learning. We also talk about how often and when to do distraction training. Dr. Larry and Coach Johnny on Twitter: @LarryLauer / @johnnyparkes1 Instagram: @johnny_parkes USTA PD Website: http://www.playerdevelopment.usta.com/podcasts/?

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The latest skill drill episode tackles how to work on playing in distracting and new environments. We discuss an example distraction drill in practice, and set it up to maximize learning. We also talk about how often and when to do distraction training. Dr. Larry and Coach Johnny on Twitter: @LarryLauer / @johnnyparkes1 Instagram: @johnny_parkes USTA PD Website: http://www.playerdevelopment.usta.com/podcasts/?

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The tennis world has seen numerous retirements recently, including Serena at the US Open and Federer after Laver Cup. The CLC team take this opportunity to discuss the importance of our tennis heroes and how they are human just like us. We also discuss how to have a conversation with a player (or your child) about the strengths and the mistakes of our heroes. Dr. Larry and Coach Johnny on Twitter: @LarryLauer / @johnnyparkes1 Instagram: @johnny_parkes USTA PD Website: http://www.playerdevelopment.usta.com/podcasts/?

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CLC continues on the topic of toughness with an examination of how playing games, sets and matches when you are tired can benefit your game. We address the mental, emotional and physical toughness necessary to perform in these conditions and things to consider maximize the teachable moments. Dr. Larry and Coach Johnny on Twitter: @LarryLauer / @johnnyparkes1 Instagram: @johnny_parkes USTA PD Website: http://www.playerdevelopment.usta.com/podcasts/?

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Steve Magness, author of "Do Hard Things" joins us to discuss a more current, science-based version of toughness. We get into what it means to be tough, how to develop intrinsic motivation, and the environment necessary to facilitate toughness. We also get into how one can negotiate with themselves to make the hard decisions. To buy Steve’s book https://www.amazon.com/Hard-Things-Resilience-Surprising-Toughness/dp/B09JYH5K33/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?crid=3M41ZYKQLR0IQ&keywords=do+hard+things+book&qid=1659545331&sprefix=do+hard+things%2Caps%2C173&sr=8-1 To follow Steve on Twitter: www.Twitter.com/stevemagness and stevemagness.com Follow Dr. Larry and Coach Johnny on Twitter: @LarryLauer / @johnnyparkes1 Instagram: @johnny_parkes USTA PD Website: http://www.playerdevelopment.usta.com/podcasts/?

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In our next set of skill drills we are focusing on developing toughness. In this episode the CLC team focuses on drills that require players hit a certain number of shots. We address how, when and why to use the "30 ball drill" and the benefits it has for players. Dr. Larry and Coach Johnny on Twitter: @LarryLauer / @johnnyparkes1 Instagram: @johnny_parkes USTA PD Website: http://www.playerdevelopment.usta.com/podcasts/?

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Toughness is not very well understood and often taught/applied in inappropriate and ineffective ways. In this episode we breakdown what toughness really is and how we must consider mental and emotional aspects of toughness. We also dive into strategies for enhancing toughness, see the Developing Toughness handout at https://drive.google.com/file/d/1UZB91l4wKWsnpsM-2zUG5c-c10xBa5T0/view?usp=sharing. Dr. Larry and Coach Johnny on Twitter: @LarryLauer / @johnnyparkes1 Instagram: @johnny_parkes USTA PD Website: http://www.playerdevelopment.usta.com/podcasts/?

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Again we are back on the return of serve, this time detailing how to use visualization to enhance the return. Coach Johnny also dives into the physical movements on the return and we talk about how visualization can support the movements necessary to return serve effectively. Dr. Larry and Coach Johnny on Twitter: @LarryLauer / @johnnyparkes1 Instagram: @johnny_parkes USTA PD Website: http://www.playerdevelopment.usta.com/podcasts/?

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In this episode we discuss the challenges of having players try something new. Why is it so difficult for some people to do something differently or new? How do you help them take the first step and try, and then facilitate perseverance? We tackle these questions and more! Dr. Larry and Coach Johnny on Twitter: @LarryLauer / @johnnyparkes1 Instagram: @johnny_parkes USTA PD Website: http://www.playerdevelopment.usta.com/podcasts/?

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CLC stays on the return of serve with using centered breathing to enhance the tunnel focus on the return of serve. We talk about how to do the deep breathing and how to work on it in practice. Dr. Larry and Coach Johnny on Twitter: @LarryLauer / @johnnyparkes1 Instagram: @johnny_parkes USTA PD Website: http://www.playerdevelopment.usta.com/podcasts/?

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CLC goes in depth on the most under practiced shot in the game, and yet extremely important, the return of serve. We discuss the physical and psychological aspects that a player and coach must consider to become a great returner of serve. We detail the routines, where the player should be focusing, and tactics and mindset needed to develop the ROS. Dr. Larry and Coach Johnny on Twitter: @LarryLauer / @johnnyparkes1 Instagram: @johnny_parkes USTA PD Website: http://www.playerdevelopment.usta.com/podcasts/?

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Mental Skill Drills return with a focus on rewarding yourself for playing well. The brain is wired to focus on negative memories. This drill counters this tendency to create a more motivated, committed, confident and focused player. We provide progressions and coaching strategies for the drill. Dr. Larry and Coach Johnny on Twitter: @LarryLauer / @johnnyparkes1 Instagram: @johnny_parkes USTA PD Website: http://www.playerdevelopment.usta.com/podcasts/?

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In the latest CLC episode we discuss how to create simple ways to understand and transfer mental training to competition. Through the use of metaphors we can help players develop a deeper meaning about the why, when, where, how and what of using our minds to perform. We provide an in-depth example of the "hotel" and how it can relate to mental performance. Leaders in Sport podcasts by Dr. Larry and Coach Johnny: https://leadersinsport.com/performance/leaders-performance-podcast-the-pitfalls-to-avoid-in-mental-skills-training/ and https://leadersinsport.com/performance/leaders-performance-podcast-johnny-parkes-img-academy/ Dr. Larry and Coach Johnny on Twitter: @LarryLauer / @johnnyparkes1 Instagram: @johnny_parkes USTA PD Website: http://www.playerdevelopment.usta.com/podcasts/?

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Dr. Nick Dewan joins the CLC team to discuss the ongoing stress of the pandemic and how the affects of it will linger on. We define and discuss burnout, as well as specific recovery methods that are the antidote to these concerns. This an unbelievable interview that provides clear recomomendations for parents and coaches on how to respond when players aren't feeling excited or motivated, and when they need a "mental health day or days". Find Dr. Dewan on linked at: http://www.playerdevelopment.usta.com/fellowship/ Previous Dr. Dewan episode is at https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/dr-nick-dewan/id1450860560?i=1000485493979 Dr. Larry and Coach Johnny on Twitter: @LarryLauer / @johnnyparkes1 Instagram: @johnny_parkes USTA PD Website: http://www.playerdevelopment.usta.com/podcasts/?

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Continuing with the topic of motivation, our next CLC mental skill drills is on how stay motivated when your losing. We talk about how to set up the drills so players take it seriously as well as how to maximize the debrief for learning. As always we offer ways to vary the drill and isolate the mental skills players are working on. Dr. Larry and Coach Johnny on Twitter: @LarryLauer / @johnnyparkes1 Instagram: @johnny_parkes USTA PD Website: http://www.playerdevelopment.usta.com/podcasts/?

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Are people behaving worse post-COVD shutdown? There is a sense that behaviors have worsened in sport and in tennis. This includes player and parent behavior. We talk about the complexity of what is actually happening and why, and then what can be done about it. Dr. Larry and Coach Johnny on Twitter: @LarryLauer / @johnnyparkes1 Instagram: @johnny_parkes USTA PD Website: http://www.playerdevelopment.usta.com/podcasts/?

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CLC's next mental skill is on how to help players motivate themselves to do the harder drills. This drill will give you the steps on how to push your players and have them push themselves, but also there is many different ways you can do the drill. We discuss how to make it as specific to match play as possible. Dr. Larry and Coach Johnny on Twitter: @LarryLauer / @johnnyparkes1 Instagram: @johnny_parkes USTA PD Website: http://www.playerdevelopment.usta.com/podcasts/?

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Dr. Justin Tausig joins the CLC team to discuss the loss of his father and how he turned that tragedy into inspiration. His way of grieving was to write the bedtime stories his father used to tell him. We discuss grief and how to process it. In addition, we dive into creativity and how to facilitate it in others (especially in tennis). Connect with Dr. Tausig on twitter @drjustintausig and on instagram @drjustintausig. His book George and the Dragon can be found on Amazon. Follow Dr. Larry and Coach Johnny on Twitter: @LarryLauer / @johnnyparkes1 Instagram: @johnny_parkes USTA PD Website: http://www.playerdevelopment.usta.com/podcasts/?

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We continue on mental skills and drills teachings with another episode on goal setting in practice. This time we cover how to set goals that engage and challenge players, specifically on the serve. In addition, we clarify how you can use mental skills to support the goal striving of the player. Follow Dr. Larry and Coach Johnny on Twitter: @LarryLauer / @johnnyparkes1 Instagram: @johnny_parkes USTA PD Website: http://www.playerdevelopment.usta.com/podcasts/?

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When pushing yourself you must take the time to recover effectively. In this episode we talk about how the LA Rams learned from the Premier League and monitoring workload and emphasizing recovery to become one of the least injured teams in the NFL. We also discuss how to know if your child is overtrained and in need of a break. The article about the Rams can be found at: https://www.insider.com/super-bowl-la-rams-copied-soccer-training-ideas-2022-2?amp Follow Dr. Larry and Coach Johnny on Twitter: @LarryLauer / @johnnyparkes1 Instagram: @johnny_parkes USTA PD Website: http://www.playerdevelopment.usta.com/podcasts/?

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How can we bring goal setting to life in practice? CLC begins its series on mental skills and drills with the first theme of goal setting. We discuss how to support player engagement on court through the use of a goal board. We also talk about when and when not list goals in public and the best ways to set-up, execute, and debrief the drill. Follow Dr. Larry and Coach Johnny on Twitter: @LarryLauer / @johnnyparkes1 Instagram: @johnny_parkes USTA PD Website: http://www.playerdevelopment.usta.com/podcasts/?

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The CLC team is back with a brand new episode reviewing Super Bowl LVI. We talk about how the Rams and Bengals make big plays under pressure and relate that to tennis (including Nadal's five-set victory in the Australian Open Final). What are the little details and intangibles you can do under pressure to "do your job"? Listen to find out! Follow Dr. Larry and Coach Johnny on Twitter: @LarryLauer / @johnnyparkes1 Instagram: @johnny_parkes USTA PD Website: http://www.playerdevelopment.usta.com/podcasts/?

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We talked about being the Hunter during the US Open but what if you feel like you're the on being hunted? The favorite, the #1 seed, the player with the higher UTR... We often find ourselves in a lose-lose mentality. Reframing and becoming the hunter again is possible, but will take some work to adjust your how you are looking things. Coach Johnny and Dr. Larry discuss how to do this. Follow Dr. Larry and Coach Johnny on Twitter: @LarryLauer / @johnnyparkes1 Instagram: @johnny_parkes USTA PD Website: http://www.playerdevelopment.usta.com/podcasts/

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CLC team takes on the Choker label in tennis. We discuss how it is too often-used and the most undermining thought you can have during a match. We discuss how it's an issue of focus, not an internal flaw, and how to refocus in situations where you are underperforming. Follow Dr. Larry and Coach Johnny on Twitter: @LarryLauer / @johnnyparkes1 Instagram: @johnny_parkes USTA PD Website: http://www.playerdevelopment.usta.com/podcasts/

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Former US Davis Cup Captain Tom Gullickson joins the CLC team to discuss game styles. "Gully" shares where the game styles written in the PD journal came from, and the nuances of the different game styles. We also discussed match-ups between different game styles and what game style is most challenging for an all-court player. We finish the episode with Gully's thoughts on where the game is headed. Descriptions of the game styles are availabe via download of the USTA Player Development Journal at https://s3.amazonaws.com/ustaassets/assets/689/15/player_development_journal_2020.pdf Follow Dr. Larry and Coach Johnny on Twitter: @LarryLauer / @johnnyparkes1 Instagram: @johnny_parkes USTA PD Website: http://www.playerdevelopment.usta.com/podcasts/

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Tennis game styles can broken down into four general categories of counter puncher, aggressive baseliner, all court player and serve and volleyer. Coach Johnny and Dr. Larry examine the these styles and personalities and mindsets that best fit these game styles. We also discuss issues with a misalignment between personality and game style. Descriptions of the game styles are availabe via download of the USTA Player Development Journal at https://s3.amazonaws.com/ustaassets/assets/689/15/player_development_journal_2020.pdf

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Ever struggle using mental skills to help your performance? Do you think sometimes that the mental skills could be doing more? In this episode we talk about combining mental skills is more effective than using them in isolation. We discuss coupling, the power of multimodal routines, and how to teach mental skills routines in parts. Follow Dr. Larry and Coach Johnny on Twitter: @LarryLauer / @johnnyparkes1 Instagram: @johnny_parkes USTA PD Website: http://www.playerdevelopment.usta.com/podcasts/?

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In reality tennis performance fluctuates far more than players, coaches and parents would like to admit. The CLC podcast team talks about the science behind these fluctuations or random errors in performance and how it aid in letting go of mistakes and errors. We go in depth on the concept of regression to the mean (and progression) and how it influences how we think about our performances. We also discuss what it means for the "slump". Follow Dr. Larry and Coach Johnny on Twitter: @LarryLauer / @johnnyparkes1 Instagram: @johnny_parkes USTA PD Website: http://www.playerdevelopment.usta.com/podcasts/?

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Coach JY Aubone joins the CLC podcast to discuss his development from a touring player to junior and pro coaching. JY talks about his philosophy of person first and how that impacts that many decisions that are made as a coach. We dive deep into scheduling and recover, and talk about how the off-court life impacts on the court. Finally, we delve into how the Open and Opelka's run as well as the pride that we as coaches must take in our work. For more Coach Aubone's coaching services go to aubonetennis.com Follow Dr. Larry and Coach Johnny on Twitter: @LarryLauer / @johnnyparkes1 Instagram: @johnny_parkes USTA PD Website: http://www.playerdevelopment.usta.com/podcasts/?

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The 2021 US Open is over and there is so much to learn from this exciting event. Coach Johnny and Dr. Larry take a look at the singles finals and how Raducanu, Fernandez, Djokovic and Medvedev handled the pressure-packed excitement. For juniors this is an especially important episode as we discuss how embrace pressure environments including changing your view on things. We also unpack just how Medvedev was able to convincingly win the Final with a very clear plan and commitment. Follow Dr. Larry and Coach Johnny on Twitter: @LarryLauer / @johnnyparkes1 Instagram: @johnny_parkes USTA PD Website: http://www.playerdevelopment.usta.com/podcasts/?

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Coach Marc Lucero is on the podcast again to discuss the US Open and the "the hunter vs. the hunted" mentality. The Open has been exciting on many fronts. We discuss the emergence of young players going into the 2nd week of a Slam for the first time and talk about why they have been able have these breakthroughs. In addition, we preview some of the match-ups going into the final week of the Open and how players will manage the "big moments". Check out Coach Marc Lucero's podcast "Check the Mark"and follow him @marclucero Follow Dr. Larry and Coach Johnny on Twitter: @LarryLauer / @johnnyparkes1 Instagram: @johnny_parkes USTA PD Website: http://www.playerdevelopment.usta.com/podcasts/?

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Coach Marc Lucero joins the CLC team to discuss the US Open Qualies week and previews the Main Draw. If you want to know what it is like to be at qualies listen to this podcast because we describe the stressful environment as young players and tour veterans alike try to make the main draw of the Open. Combined with the intense heat and the big payout for making the Main Draw and you had an environment full of tension. Marc also previews some of the best match-ups of the first round, how to prepare mentally for it, the role of the coach in this preparation, and what players are thinking with the number of big names withdrawing from the tournament. Follow Dr. Larry and Coach Johnny on Twitter: @LarryLauer / @johnnyparkes1 Instagram: @johnny_parkes USTA PD Website: http://www.playerdevelopment.usta.com/podcasts/?

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In preparation for the Paralympic Tennis Event in Tokyo, guest co-host Jason Harnett and Dr. Larry talk to Wheelchair Tennis great David Hall. David talked about the drive and professionalism it took to dominate the sport. He discusses how he dealt with the trauma he experienced and how he overcame it, as well as a difficult transition out of wheelchair tennis. Unbelievable lessons here about finding your why, what it takes to be successful, and living life fully. Transcript. Follow Dr. Larry and Coach Johnny on Twitter: @LarryLauer / @johnnyparkes1 Instagram: @johnny_parkes USTA PD Website: http://www.playerdevelopment.usta.com/podcasts/?

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Dr. Dieffenbach joined the CLC podcast to talk about the mental health discussion surrounding the Olympics. We explored why it is such a polarizing subject, and how we can move forward with the discussion. We make recommendations for those in player and talent development in terms of creating an optimal environment that supports the well-being of the athletes. Transcript. Follow Dr. Larry and Coach Johnny on Twitter: @LarryLauer / @johnnyparkes1 Instagram: @johnny_parkes USTA PD Website: http://www.playerdevelopment.usta.com/podcasts/?

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How are coaches and parents coaching junior players in the 10-minute break between 2nd and 3rd sets in USTA events? Coach Johnny and Dr. Larry talk about some of their observations and share best practices for "winning" the 10-minute break. Transcript. Follow Dr. Larry and Coach Johnny on Twitter: @LarryLauer / @johnnyparkes1 Instagram: @johnny_parkes USTA PD Website: http://www.playerdevelopment.usta.com/podcasts/?

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Are you a people-pleaser? Do you worry too much about what others will think and it keeps you performing or being happy? The CLC team dives into worrying about what others think as a major obstacle to tennis performance. We discuss what it is, where it often happens, and how it affects performance. Finally, we discuss how we can spend less time worrying about what others are thinking and more time enjoying our tennis and life. Worry less about what others think notes: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1VJR_NPLI7zrc_5DZNE0SGBlIgcpbN7ip/view?usp=sharing

Follow Dr. Larry and Coach Johnny on Twitter: @LarryLauer / @johnnyparkes1 Instagram: @johnny_parkes

USTA PD Website: http://www.playerdevelopment.usta.com/podcasts/?

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A review of research on feedback asserts that praise can focus the learner on extrinsic rewards, thus dampening intrinsic drive for mastery. We talk about some of the nuances of the issue, including the timing of the feedback. In addition, we provide some real practical recommendations on how to give direct feedback that players will hear and internalize, while not making them extrinsically focused or distracting them from learning. For more on the Dr. Welnschenk article: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/brain-wise/201312/why-you-shouldnt-mix-praise-feedback

Follow Dr. Larry and Coach Johnny on Twitter: @LarryLauer / @johnnyparkes1 Instagram: @johnny_parkes

USTA PD Website: http://www.playerdevelopment.usta.com/podcasts/?

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Jimmy Arias, former #5 in the world, television commentator, and IMG Director of Player Development joined us to discuss the modern forehand and how he was the original manifestation of it. We also dive into the confidence of a player and how the story we have in our head drives that confidence. We also talk about how to have confidence when you are not winning as much and the different times when Jimmy had the confidence and how it affected him. Transcript. Follow Dr. Larry and Coach Johnny on Twitter: @LarryLauer / @johnnyparkes1 Instagram: @johnny_parkes USTA PD Website: http://www.playerdevelopment.usta.com/podcasts/?

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Athletes are often told to get over losing and failure. However, this may not be the best coaching approach when there are very painful losses. The CLC team discusses why it is ok for losing to be painful, how to honor those feelings, and also how to learn from it and become better. See the Tim Grover video that sparked this episode: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=38j-IgZH5I4 Follow Dr. Larry and Coach Johnny on Twitter: @LarryLauer / @johnnyparkes1 Instagram: @johnny_parkes USTA PD Website: http://www.playerdevelopment.usta.com/podcasts/?

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Next in our series on how cognitive distortions influence performance, we examine the assumptions that we make in tennis. When are players most likely to jump to conclusions or have a leap of inference? How do you help players be aware and overcome it? We tackle these questions and more, including the Ladder of Inference (https://synergycommons.net/resources/the-ladder-of-inference/ and https://www.ucd.ie/t4cms/The%20Ladder%20of%20Inference.pdf). Follow Dr. Larry and Coach Johnny on Twitter: @LarryLauer / @johnnyparkes1 Instagram: @johnny_parkes USTA PD Website: http://www.playerdevelopment.usta.com/podcasts/?

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Time to warm up your brain! Coach Johnny and Dr. Larry offer 5 highly effective pre-match strategies that are used by professional tennis players. Some of these strategies are well known and often used, others are a bit outside the box. We discuss the idea of preparation as a funnel and how the body and mind work together. We also discuss mistakes juniors often make relative to match preparation. Have an open mind and give these 5 strategies a shot. Follow Dr. Larry and Coach Johnny on Twitter: @LarryLauer / @johnnyparkes1 Instagram: @johnny_parkes USTA PD Website: http://www.playerdevelopment.usta.com/podcasts/?

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IMG Academy Head of Female Tennis Margie Zesinger joins the CLC podcast to discuss her philosophy of developing people and then players. She describes in detail how she relates to the individual considering personality and cultural differences. We also dive into how we create an environment of respect while competing in stressful situations in training. Margie also addresses what separates those that reach their goals and those that don't. Follow Dr. Larry and Coach Johnny on Twitter: @LarryLauer / @johnnyparkes1 Instagram: @johnny_parkes USTA PD Website: http://www.playerdevelopment.usta.com/podcasts/?

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Naomi Osaka, grand slam champion and a young star on the Women's tour, has been open about her struggles with anxiety and depression. At the French Open she decided against attending press conferences and eventually withdrew from the tournament. We talk about the importance of taking care of one's mental health, getting help just as you would a physical concern, and how vulnerability is strength. Follow Dr. Larry and Coach Johnny on Twitter: @LarryLauer / @johnnyparkes1 Instagram: @johnny_parkes USTA PD Website: http://www.playerdevelopment.usta.com/podcasts/?

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In this episode CLC covers 3 essential topics about skill acquistion. First, how practice is more than repetition. Second, context is king in transferring learning. Third, know if the goal is to learn or to perform and communicate it. We examine each one of these topics in depth and provide examples for how to apply them in practice. Follow Dr. Larry and Coach Johnny on Twitter: @LarryLauer / @johnnyparkes1 Instagram: @johnny_parkes USTA PD Website: http://www.playerdevelopment.usta.com/podcasts/?

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Want to improve your coaching today? CLC is back after a short hiatus to talk about 5 practices coaches can use to better relate to players and create behavior change. These practices are often overlooked, employed inconsistently, and misunderstood. Coach Johnny and Dr. Larry examine how to use communication practices to improve our coaching including the need for looking at mistakes differently. Employing these practices consistently will improve athlete engagement and learning. Follow Dr. Larry and Coach Johnny on Twitter: @LarryLauer / @johnnyparkes1 Instagram: @johnny_parkes USTA PD Website: http://www.playerdevelopment.usta.com/podcasts/?

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Is winning and losing life or death in sport? Nah, but that is often how we feel in the moment. Humans often catastrophize the consequences of a performance and it creates much stress and anxiety. Why is that? We discuss it in sport in general and as a rampant condition in tennis post-COVID tournament shutdown. If it's such a part of our thinking how do we move away from it? We cover how to reframe and refocus so that we can minmize the consequences of winning and losing, and help players best prepare to perform with composure, confidence and resilience. Follow Dr. Larry and Coach Johnny on Twitter: @LarryLauer / @johnnyparkes1 Instagram: @johnny_parkes USTA PD Website: http://www.playerdevelopment.usta.com/podcasts/?

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In this episode, we dive into why players are not able to transfer performance from practice to matches, and it is not always anxiety (or at least that is not the core issue needing change). How we practice determines in large part how we will perform. We discuss the differences in blocked, random, and serial practice and make a case for when and why to use each of these teaching practices. We give you specific tennis examples for each and emphasize the need to use each of these teaching practices wisely. Follow Dr. Larry and Coach Johnny on Twitter: @LarryLauer / @johnnyparkes1 Instagram: @johnny_parkes USTA PD Website: http://www.playerdevelopment.usta.com/podcasts/?

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CLC takes a deeper look into a specific distortion called filtering. We describe what it is and how it is happening frequently in practices and matches, including when coaches and parents expect players to make every shot and a miss is treated as something to be fixed. We also detail how players, coaches and parents can be aware of filtering and how to reframe and refocus their mind for greater performance, confidence, and happiness. Follow Dr. Larry and Coach Johnny on Twitter: @LarryLauer / @johnnyparkes1 Instagram: @johnny_parkes USTA PD Website: http://www.playerdevelopment.usta.com/podcasts/?

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The CLC team is back together discussing cognitive distortions or "faulty thinking". We discuss some of the most common distortions that tennis players exhibit and provide specific examples from our experience. Our hope is that players, coaches, and parents will be more aware of these thoughts that undermine them and begin switch to more rational, helpful thoughts. See a list of cognitive distortions at https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/in-practice/201301/50-common-cognitive-distortions Follow Dr. Larry and Coach Johnny on Twitter: @LarryLauer / @johnnyparkes1 Instagram: @johnny_parkes USTA PD Website: http://www.playerdevelopment.usta.com/podcasts/?

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Want to increase learning, motivation, and teamwork? The podcast team is back with a discussion about working in teams and how it creates more efficient and effective learning for players. Coach Johnny talks about a book he read, Innovative DNA, and how associative thinking and four distinct behaviors lead to more connections across domains of performance. Follow Dr. Larry and Coach Johnny on Twitter: @LarryLauer / @johnnyparkes1 Instagram: @johnny_parkes USTA PD Website: http://www.playerdevelopment.usta.com/podcasts/?

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In this episode, we review a Psychology Today article on how success engages the ego and then can undermine genuine leadership and even motivation. We talk about it mainly from two examples. One, a coach moving into a management position, and two, a junior player having success and having ego protection block openness to feedback and other ideas. We also dive into the idea of We before Me when making decisions. Dr. Vonk's article Success as a Liability when Hijacked by the Ego: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/the-ego-and-other-inconveniences/202102/success-is-liability-when-hijacked-the-ego Follow Dr. Larry and Coach Johnny on Twitter: @LarryLauer / @johnnyparkes1 Instagram: @johnny_parkes USTA PD Website: http://www.playerdevelopment.usta.com/podcasts/?

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To develop their talent and skills, players must make sacrifices as do their parents. How do we know if or when we've gone too far? We discuss in depth the Achievement by Proxy Distortion model created by Dr. Ian Tofler and how parents (and coaches, too) can, at times, objectify players to reach their own goals. We also explore the common "traps" that lead down the road of objectification in tennis. Our hope is for parents and coaches to listen, learn and reflect upon their involvement in the sport. Are they motivated by the best interest of the whole child or by their own ambitions? See the Achievement by Proxy Distortion model at https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/Achievement-by-proxy-distortion-in-sports%3A-a-of-and-Tofler-Knapp/7fce32d44b09d13b3e4a00e1275a622805564b9b Check out the USTA Parent Behavior Assessment: http://assets.usta.com/assets/1/USTA_Import/USTA/dps/doc_437_105.pdf Follow Dr. Larry and Coach Johnny on Twitter: @LarryLauer / @johnnyparkes1 Instagram: @johnny_parkes USTA PD Website: http://www.playerdevelopment.usta.com/podcasts/?

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Fresh off the Australian Open, Coach Henner Nehles professional tennis coach and current coach of Ann Li, joins the podcast to discuss the quarantine and how to best prepare and perform in challenging circumstances. We dive into how he and Ann dealt with the quarantine, prepared for the Australian Open, and created a mindset that allowed her to excel. His philosophy truly prepared them for this situation and we examine it. Follow Dr. Larry and Coach Johnny on Twitter: @LarryLauer / @johnnyparkes1 Instagram: @johnny_parkes USTA PD Website: http://www.playerdevelopment.usta.com/podcasts/?

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Good coaches have high standards and communicate them; it seems universal even to other professions and venues of life. In today's episode, the team explores the standards that create program and coaching excellence. They also dive deep into how to communicate and uphold these standards. This includes how to handle those that are not complying, and when and how to adjust. Follow Dr. Larry and Coach Johnny on Twitter: @LarryLauer / @johnnyparkes1 Instagram: @johnny_parkes USTA PD Website: http://www.playerdevelopment.usta.com/podcasts/?

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Tennis Down Under came with a quarantine, and even a hard quarantine, for the players. How did they deal with it? Were they ready? How did they perform? We try to tackle some of these questions and talk about how to deal witih the isolation of a quaratine and come out ready physically, mentally, and emotionally. Follow Dr. Larry and Coach Johnny on Twitter: @LarryLauer / @johnnyparkes1 Instagram: @johnny_parkes USTA PD Website: http://www.playerdevelopment.usta.com/podcasts/?

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Empathy is often considered a soft skill, but we argue that is an essential skill in coaching. Empathy is crucial to developing and maintaining relationships and not just a "soft" strategy for "soft" coaches. We take you through what empathy is, how it relates to emotional intelligence, the benefits of empathy, and, finally, how to demonstrate empathy. Follow Dr. Larry and Coach Johnny on Twitter: @LarryLauer / @johnnyparkes1 Instagram: @johnny_parkes USTA PD Website: http://www.playerdevelopment.usta.com/podcasts/?

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Howard Green, Head of Sport Science at Bolton Arena Regional Performance Development Centre, joins the podcast team to discuss how his service in the Royal Marines has influenced his work with tennis players. Join us as we discuss how Howard approaches preparation including rehearsal with tennis players and how to change behaviors. The discussion also covers where to start with younger kids and the role of the coach in developing movement in tennis. Follow Howard on Social Media: @hgreentennisfit Website: www.tennissupermovers.com Email: howard@tennissupermovers.com Follow Dr. Larry and Coach Johnny on Twitter: @LarryLauer / @johnnyparkes1 Instagram: @johnny_parkes USTA PD Website: http://www.playerdevelopment.usta.com/podcasts/?

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It's become a common phrase in pop culture: "We have to fail in order to succeed." But are athletes really adapting and growing because of failure, at least as much as we would expect? Coach Johnny and Dr. Larry argue that maybe we are not doing enough to help players cope with failure. We need to reboot how we are thinking about failure. In this episode, we talk about philosophical and practical approaches to planning and preparing for failure, and helping players through it. http://www.playerdevelopment.usta.com/podcasts/? Instagram: @teamusatennis / @johnny_parkes Twitter: @larrylauer / @johnnyparkes3 

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Are we inspiring or motivating players? The episode details the relationship between these two actions in sport and tennis. We dive into the power of self-determination and the role coaches and parents play to facilitate this inspiration. We look at the ways rewards and consequences can undermine motivation in place of effort and focus. And finally, we cover how transformational vs. transactional coaching leadership impacts player behavior. http://www.playerdevelopment.usta.com/podcasts/? Instagram: @teamusatennis / @johnny_parkes Twitter: @larrylauer / @johnnyparkes1

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The team is back after a tumultuous 2020 with the second episode of the new year, examining the concept of gratitude. Frequently cited as a means to well-being, gratitude is pitched by self-help professionals and therapists as an important skill to engage in. Just how important is gratitude to your well-being? We review several articles and discuss gratitude's 10 benefits and how to exercise gratitude on a more regular basis.

Forbes: Scientifically Proven Benefits of Gratitude (Morin, 2014)

Psychiatry: Gratitude and Well-Being (Sansone and Sansone, 2010)

http://www.playerdevelopment.usta.com/podcasts/?

Instagram: @teamusatennis / @johnny_parkes Twitter: @larrylauer / @johnnyparkes1

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The new year is the perfect time to set new goals. As we enter 2021, Dr. Larry and Coach Johnny are talking about resolutions again. We examine the importance of setting realistic goals that you can live with and discuss how to stick with those goals. http://www.playerdevelopment.usta.com/podcasts/? Instagram: @teamusatennis / @johnny_parkes Twitter: @larrylauer / @johnnyparkes1

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Coach Johnny and Dr. L revisit the idea of integration and maximizing player development. We discuss how effort is a choice and that focusing takes effort, how coaches give feedback to enhance the confidence of athletes, and how visualization/imagery is used to enhance training. We also talk about the OPS (Optimal Performance State) and how players can train using the mind (mental skills) and body to achieve their OPS. http://www.playerdevelopment.usta.com/podcasts/? Instagram: @teamusatennis / @johnny_parkes Twitter: @larrylauer / @johnnyparkes1

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The Army overhauled how it selects battalion commanders because they felt they had a lack of qualty leadership. They were promoting based on legacy. We review the article and talk about if sport organizations are identifying talent accurately. In addition, we discuss how sport organizations can identify quality coaches. Review HBR article: Reinventing Leadership in the Military: https://hbr.org/2020/11/reinventing-the-leader-selection-process?utm_source=twitter&utm_campaign=hbr&utm_medium=social http://www.playerdevelopment.usta.com/podcasts/? Instagram: @teamusatennis / @johnny_parkes Twitter: @larrylauer / @johnnyparkes1

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A recent ADP research study found that 19% of employees surveyed about their workplace are reporting feeling highly resilient. That is a small percentage and we discuss why that might be the case and review more important results from the study. This episode gets into the importance of leadership, trust, and the most important finding that those that love what they do are four times more likely to be resilient. Review ADP workplace executive summary for discussion: https://www.adpri.org/assets/10-facts-about-resilience/ http://www.playerdevelopment.usta.com/podcasts/? Instagram: @teamusatennis / @johnny_parkes Twitter: @larrylauer / @johnnyparkes1

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THE 100th EPISODE SPECIAL! A milestone for the CLC podcast team. In this episode Coach Johnny, Dr. Larry, and Coach Mick take a trip down memory lane to review some of the more poignant moments from the first 100 episodes. We feature clips from past episodes with some fantastic guests, and review the most important themes of the podcast as well as episodes that our listeners should go back and check out! Thank you the listeners and we look forward to learning and sharing more over the next 100! Enjoy and please share with someone who you may feel will benefit from listening.

Here are a few more episodes not mentioned in the podcast that are a great listen:

  • Episode: Purposeful practice
  • Perform like you practice - Setting the environment, standards, and expectations (00:35-5:31)
  • Episode: Visualization
  • Episode: Habits
  • Episode: How to become a better Problem-solver 2-parter
  • Episode: How to be ready for every point using the 4 R’s

http://www.playerdevelopment.usta.com/podcasts/? Instagram: @teamusatennis / @johnny_parkes Twitter: @larrylauer / @johnnyparkes1

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Dr. Duncan Simpson, Director of Mental Conditioning at IMG Academy, joins the team to discuss how he integrates mental skills training onto the court to maximize transfer to matches. We examine the importance of collaborating with coaches to enhance the learning of players. In addition, the importance of making practice more match-like and how to do that is detailed. We provide examples of how to train mental skills during practice. www.playerdevelopment.usta.com Instagram: @teamusatennis / @johnny_parkes Twitter: @larrylauer / @johnnyparkes1

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How to measure how a player is performing mentally and if they are improving their mental strength? This has been a concern for as long as sport psychology has existed. In this episode, the team dives into a 3-Level System for measuring mental performance created by Dr. L. It is an attempt to give players and coaches more structure to how they think about their mental performances and improve the quality of the feedback gained from matches and practices. We hope it starts a conversation around how to actually measure mental performance beyond outcomes which will inevitably improve the training of mental skills and mental strength. Evaluating Mental Performance PPT File: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1kow7iW0DpqpcQhbvyK3W1z0QL3Y8GVtM/view?usp=sharing www.playerdevelopment.usta.com Instagram: @teamusatennis / @johnny_parkes Twitter: @larrylauer / @johnnyparkes1

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Do you struggle getting over a tough loss? Losing is inevitable in sport, but the biggest losses can be extremely emotional and take some time for the player to recover from. In this episode Dr. L and Coach Johnny discuss their thoughts on how to recover from these tough losses and help you get back on course to increase your confidence and determination. We also provide advice for parents and coaches on what to do and what not to do during sensitive and important post-match conversations following a big loss. www.playerdevelopment.usta.com Instagram: @teamusatennis / @johnny_parkes Twitter: @larrylauer / @johnnyparkes1

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Tara Collingwood drops by the podcast to discuss nutrition in general and for high performing athletes. We discuss the important differences in the needs athletes have. In addition, we examine the importance of timing, the type of foods to eat, and when (including pre-match, during, and after matches). Tara gets into hydration as well, and her thoughts on diets. This is a must-listen for all parents and coaches wanting to know more about how to help players fuel in a healthy manner. Tara Collingwood dietdiva.net www.playerdevelopment.usta.com Instagram: @teamusatennis / @johnny_parkes Twitter: @larrylauer / @johnnyparkes1

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This podcast is a special episode solely on between point routines. How can players learn to be ready to play each point? We detail the 4 R's approach to between points, breaking each part of the routine down and describing it with practical ways players can integrate mental skills into the routine. We also discussed how to progressively teach between point routines. Instagram: @teamusatennis / @johnny_parkes Twitter: @larrylauer / @johnnyparkes1

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In part 2 of the series on problem-solving Dr. Larry and Coach Johnny talk more how to train problem-solving, the P-E-R model for decision-making, and how to develop independence in players (versus being dependent). Instagram: @teamusatennis / @johnny_parkes Twitter: @larrylauer / @johnnyparkes1

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The team reunites to examine the importance of problem-solving in high-performance sport and tennis. We discuss why it is important to be able to quickly and accurately solve problems and the characteristics of those that do it well and those that don't. We also begin the discussion on how to train problem-solving. Instagram: @teamusatennis / @johnny_parkes Twitter: @larrylauer / @johnnyparkes1

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Inside the US Open concludes with Dave Ramos and Geoff Russell joining us again to discuss the Men's Final. A riveting five-set match that went to Dominic Thiem, we discuss the stats behind the match and how momentum changed midway through the match. Instagram: @teamusatennis / @johnny_parkes Twitter: @larrylauer / @johnnyparkes1

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Inside the US Open continues with another discussion about the Women's Final but from a statistical point of view. Dave Ramos and Geoff Russell join us again to discuss the stats that made the difference in Osaka's three-set victory. The discussion includes recommendations for coaches based on the final. Instagram: @teamusatennis / @johnny_parkes Twitter: @larrylauer / @johnnyparkes1

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Coach Chris Tontz joins us to discuss th Women's Final at the 2020 US Open. We talk about what has been giving both Osaka and Azarenka a huge edge on the field; the serve and their positivity. This morphed into a discussion about the individuality of players and how to help players be positive within their own personality. We also discuss the pressure players are feeling in this unique and talk about the Men's Final and who has the advantage. Instagram: @teamusatennis / @johnny_parkes Twitter: @larrylauer / @johnnyparkes1

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The Inside the US Open Series continues with a look at the second week of the tournament. The guys talk about Serena's belief and coming back from a set down. They also discuss the physicality necessary to win best of 5 matches for two weeks, and the lack of retirements. Instagram: @teamusatennis / @johnny_parkes Twitter: @larrylauer / @johnnyparkes1

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David Ramos and Geoff Russell of USTA Player Development's analytics team join the podcast to discuss trends they are seeing at the 2020 US Open. We also delve into how they are preparing American athletes using data including what to give coaches and players and creating visuals in presenting the data. We break down some of the success stories and what is in store for the rest of the tournament. Instagram: @teamusatennis / @johnny_parkes Twitter: @larrylauer / @johnnyparkes1

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Coach Johnny and Dr. Larry continue to talk about the US Open 2020 style. It has been a great tournament so far. We discuss young players that are making a run for the second week of the event, and the belief necessary. Instagram: @teamusatennis / @johnny_parkes

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The 2020 US Open has had many twists and turns already. Coach Johnny and Dr. Larry discuss the importance of momentum in matches and how momentum shifts can be created and prevented. Instagram: @teamusatennis / @johnny_parkes Twitter: @larrylauer / @johnnyparkes1

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USTA Strength and Conditioning Coach Reshard Langford joins the team to discuss "the bubble" in New York and how players are dealing with it. We also review the first day and a half of US Open action and some of more interesting things going on so far. How are the players doing after not playing Grand Slam tennis since January? There have been many long matches and momentum shifts and we discuss some reasons why. Instagram: @teamusatennis / @johnny_parkes Twitter: @larrylauer / @johnnyparkes1

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Dr. Larry and Coach Johnny are back at it talking about how to deal with the uncertainty as an athlete. Many tennis players don't know when they will play which creates coping/anxiety and motivation issues. The team dives into how to manage the situation including the importance of changing how you look at things. We talk about "bridging the gap" from your vision to your daily work to stay motivated and feel positive about your day. Resources: https://www.seattletimes.com/sports/seahawks/pete-carroll-conscience-of-players-coaches-serves-as-bubble-for-seahawks-covid-19-prevention/ www.playerdevelopment.usta.com Instagram: @teamusatennis / @johnny_parkes Twitter: @larrylauer / @johnnyparkes1

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It is time for the US Open, 2020 style. Unlike any other Open because of the COVID-19 pandemic, Dr. Larry and Coach Johnny get you ready. We talk about what to look for while watching the Open and what the players might be experiencing in this unique environment. This is also the start of the US Open podcast series so come back every second day to hear more about what is happening at the Open. www.playerdevelopment.usta.com Instagram: @teamusatennis / @johnny_parkes Twitter: @larrylauer / @johnnyparkes1

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Special guest USTA National Coach David Nainkin and Coach to Taylor Fritz joins Dr. L and Coach Johnny to talk about preparing players back to competition. Coach Nainks lays out what dealing with uncertainty has looked like during lockdown highlighting the importance of finding a schedule that works for each individual as well as his own personal routines. He also discusses with us the role of stress as the US Open approaches and the role of confidence in combatting stress. Lastly, he lets us know what he's most looking forward to seeing at the Open. Please be sure to leave a review of the Compete Like a Champion Podcast and let us know what you are interested in hearing about by connecting with us on social media below. www.playerdevelopment.usta.com Instagram: @teamusatennis / @johnny_parkes Twitter: @larrylauer / @johnnyparkes1

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Former professional tennis player and tennis commentator Tracy Austin joined us for another installment of a special interview series conducted by Women's Tennis. Coach Maureen Diaz helped interview Tracy as we explored the journey of tennis development. Tracy discussed in depth how to imagine what you want to achieve, creating a plan and then the professionalism it takes to pursue excellence. She also gets into how players perform under pressure, the value of visualization, and staying focused on the task in big moments. Follow our guest @thetracyaustin and instagram: tracyaustin_ www.playerdevelopment.usta.com

Instagram: @teamusatennis / @johnny_parkes

Twitter: @larrylauer / @johnnyparkes1

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www.playerdevelopment.usta.com Instagram: @teamusatennis / @johnny_parkes Twitter: @larrylauer / @johnnyparkes1

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Getting ready for tournament play? This is a second special episode for players on the return to tournament play. How will you manage the stress of returning play tournaments after being away for months? Coach Johnny and Dr. Larry review 5 key recommendations for returning to play healthy, ready, and confident. This includes understanding how to increase stress in practice in a step-by-step fashion versus without a plan and/or all at once. Return to Play Safely PD Learning Webinar Series (June 1, 2020) http://www.playerdevelopment.usta.com/news/usta_player_development_learning_series/ Return to Play Psychological Recommendations Final https://drive.google.com/file/d/1K6ovBL8kWN6gZ-MrxMP2mPibxTFnTWX6/view?usp=sharing www.playerdevelopment.usta.com Instagram: @teamusatennis / @johnny_parkes Twitter: @larrylauer / @johnnyparkes1

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Director of Coaching for USTA Player Development, Ola Malmqvist, joined the podcast team to discuss his journey from growing up in Sweden and falling in love with tennis to playing at the University of Georgia, and his development as a professional tennis coach. Coach Ola goes into detail on examples of how the USTA PD Coaching and Teaching Philosophy is simple, yet comprehensive, and effective. Furthermore, we discuss what qualities make a good practice and how a great coach creates an environment where the player is engaged, getting better and having fun. Many great ideas about how to improve your coaching, especially by creating clear coach-player boundaries www.playerdevelopment.usta.com Instagram: @teamusatennis / @johnny_parkes Twitter: @larrylauer / @johnnyparkes1

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Today's episode is another Guest Speaker Series featuring Andrea Jaeger. Dr. L and National Coach Lori Riffice takes us through Q and A discussion with the former #2 player in the World at age 16. Andrea shares some of her experiences and journeys from a Junior to a Professional player, to founding her charity for children with cancer called Little Star Foundation. She gives a candid recounting of her unique past of reaching such an incredibly high level of tennis at such a young age and then deciding to walk away from her sport to give away her earnings to the charity she founded. www.playerdevelopment.usta.com Instagram: @teamusatennis / @johnny_parkes Twitter: @larrylauer / @johnnyparkes1

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Sports Psychiatrist Dr. Nick Dewan joins the podcast to discuss all things mental health and performance. Specifically, Dr. Dewan talks about resilience and how to develop it. We also dive into the difference between temperament and character, and why it is essential for coaches and parents to understand what can be changed and what has to be managed or channeled. We finish with a discussion about COVID-19 and how this influencing our world. www.playerdevelopment.usta.com Instagram: @teamusatennis / @johnny_parkes Twitter: @larrylauer / @johnnyparkes1

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The producer and director of the documentary In Search of Greatness, Gabe Polsky, joins Coach Johnny and Dr. Larry to discuss his thoughts on creativity in sport, coaching for creativity and coaching it out of youth. We go deep into several of the themes in the documentary including parenting talented athletes, the need to be creative to survive, the rage to master and balancing freedom and control. Gabe talks about his own creativity in developing the documentary, and how frustration is a part of that process.

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This is a follow-up episode to the interview with Navy Seal and performance coach David Rutherford. Coach Johnny and Dr. L examine the interview with Rutherford and go in greater depth into the fears of tennis players. We then talk about how to deal with your fears in effective and healthy ways.

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Special episode for players! The CLC podcast team focuses on what is happening with players resuming normal training in preparation for tournaments. We focus what are some of the issues to be aware of and provide recommendations for having a healthy return to full out training.

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Navy Seal and performance coach David Rutherford comes by the podcast to talk about how he got into the Seals, and what it took for him to face his own fears. We take a deep look into fear and how it impacts athletes focus and motivation, as well as how to manage our fears. David's passion for pursuing excellence and helping others is on full display. Listeners will get a clear look into what it takes to find your mission and to achieve excellence.

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This is our second installment of a special interview series conducted by Women's Tennis. Mary Carillo is internationally renowned for her commentating on professional tennis matches and also the Olympics. Mary talked about her journey from playing pro tennis to the media and the lessons she has learned along that path. Mary's thoughts on excellence from "just say yes" to preparing at a very detailed level are extremely beneficial. Her unbelievable level of passion and energy for tennis but also for others is clearly on display during this episode.

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WTA player Julia Elbaba comes on the podcast to discuss her journey in tennis including the unbelievable experience she had at UVA and playing college tennis, and how professional tennis is different. Julia talks about how she has dealt with injury as well as the dynamics of pro tennis, and also her interest in media. Julia has started her own podcast, Jules on the Hustle and is a sports reporter for Newsday, and she talks about the importance of having other interests as you compete.  

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Dr. Justin Tausig, Sport Psychology Professional, joins the podcast to talk about his journey from his first fencing mentor to moving to France and performing internationally. He gets into his struggles as a performer and how he adapted and performed at a world-class level. The discussion then moved into how his fencing career influenced his moving into the field of sport psychology and the importance of how to stay motivated and healthy during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Twitter & Instagram: @drjustintausig

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This is a special interview episode where the podcast team is joined by Coach Chani Anderson to conduct a panel interview with professional players Alison Riske, Lauren Davis, and Jennifer Brady. The players talk about how they started in tennis and took us through their journey in junior, for Jennifer in college, and to the pro game. The players provide many insights into their mindset as they went through this journey and how they are continuing to grow and improve.

Twitter:

  • Lauren Davis - @LaurenDavis93
  • Alison Riske-Amritraj - @Riske4Rewards
  • Jennifer Brady - @JennifurBrady95
  • Dr. Larry Lauer - @LarryLauer
  • Coach Parkes - @johnnyparkes1

Instagram: * Team USA Tennis - @teamusatennis * Alison Riske-Amritraj - @riske4rewards * Lauren Davis - @laurend1092 * Jennifer Brady - @jenny_brady7 * Coach Parkes - @johnny_parkes

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In this special episode, Coach Johnny and Dr. L talk about some all-time great tennis matches from the most riveting to the most frustrating. The listeners will be surprised at some of the matches that come up as we walk down memory lane!

Twitter:

  • Dr. Larry Lauer - @LarryLauer
  • Coach Parkes - @johnnyparkes1

Instagram: * Team USA Tennis - @teamusatennis * Coach Parkes - @johnny_parkes

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Dr. Peter Scales joins the team for round two to discuss how to apply mental training to the court. The discussion goes into the importance of loving the game and how to "lose the self". Dr. L, Coach Johnny and Dr. Scales then detail practical ways to apply mental skills on-court as well as teaching methods. Dr. Scales shares his self-discovery approach and how to engage players in the Compete-Learn-Honor method. Transcript

National Alliance for Youth Sports article on Dr. Peter Scales principles: https://www.nays.org/sklive/features/compete-learn-honor-strengthening-athletes-mental-and-emotional-skills/

"Mental and Emotional Training for Tennis" by Dr. Peter Scales: https://www.amazon.com/Mental-Emotional-Training-Tennis-Scales/dp/1606794477/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1545250693&sr=8-1&keywords=9781606794470

Twitter:

  • Dr. Larry Lauer - @LarryLauer
  • Coach Parkes - @johnnyparkes1

Instagram: * Team USA Tennis - @teamusatennis * Coach Parkes - @johnny_parkes

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Dr. Peter Scales, a developmental psychologist, researcher, author, and speaker, internationally recognized as one of the world’s foremost authorities on the positive development of children and youth, joins the podcast. In part 1 of 2, Dr. L, Coach Johnny and Dr. Scales discuss how a psychologist fell in love with tennis and how he was able to use his training to aid his tennis. Dr. Scales details his Compete - Learn - Honor Philosophy as an approach to teaching mental and emotional strength for tennis and how he integrates this into his work with tennis athletes. Any coach looking to create or refine a philosophy of mental and emotional training will especially enjoy this podcast. Transcript

National Alliance for Youth Sports article on Dr. Peter Scales principles: https://www.nays.org/sklive/features/compete-learn-honor-strengthening-athletes-mental-and-emotional-skills/

"Mental and Emotional Training for Tennis" by Dr. Peter Scales: https://www.amazon.com/Mental-Emotional-Training-Tennis-Scales/dp/1606794477/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1545250693&sr=8-1&keywords=9781606794470

Twitter:

  • Dr. Larry Lauer - @LarryLauer
  • Coach Parkes - @johnnyparkes1

Instagram: * Team USA Tennis - @teamusatennis * Coach Parkes - @johnny_parkes

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Each of us have the capability to handle stress and, in fact, stress when perceived in positive ways promotes growth. Dr. L and Coach Johnny tackle the concept of stress capacity and what is dispositional and what is socialized. They also discuss different ways to perceive stress to begin to use it as a way to be resilient and thrive, versus struggle with stress overload. 

Ted Talk by McGonigal on Stress as Your Friend: https://www.ted.com/talks/kelly_mcgonigal_how_to_make_stress_your_friend?utm_campaign=tedspread&utm_medium=referral&utm_source=tedcomshare

Twitter:

  • Dr. Larry Lauer - @LarryLauer
  • Coach Parkes - @johnnyparkes1

Instagram: * Team USA Tennis - @teamusatennis * Coach Parkes - @johnny_parkes

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Coach and author Allistair McCaw joins the podcast to discuss his journey and the development of his philosophy of excellence. He further gets into the checking of the ego and having an open mind, and how that influences the journey. We also examine commonalities amongst organizations that have a great culture and what makes up the champion's mind. The conversation finishes with a discussion about the keys to coaching.

http://www.allistairmccaw.com/

Twitter:

  • Dr. Larry Lauer - @LarryLauer
  • Coach Parkes - @johnnyparkes1

Instagram: * Team USA Tennis - @teamusatennis * Coach Parkes - @johnny_parkes

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Former Director of High Performance and Education at USA Football, Joe Eisenmann, PhD, a diverse scholar-practitioner with 25 years of experience as a professor, researcher, sport scientist, coach education expert, strength & conditioning coach, and youth sports coach joins the podcast to discuss Long Term Athlete Development. They touch on a range of topics from growth and development, the youth sports market, and player identification, to how a multi-disciplinary approach on the road to elite sports performance can benefit not just the athlete, but the person mentally, emotionally and socially. Joe also gives advice to coaches, parents, and players on what we could do during and after COVID-19.

Twitter:

  • Dr. Larry Lauer - @LarryLauer
  • Coach Parkes - @johnnyparkes1
  • Joe Eisenmann - @Joe_Eisenmann

Instagram: * Team USA Tennis - @teamusatennis * Coach Parkes - @johnny_parkes

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ATP player Noah Rubin comes on to the podcast to discuss his upbringing in the game of tennis and the issues that exist in the professional tennis world. His journey with his dad as parent-coach is extremely insightful and provides great advice for parents of young athletes. Noah also talks about the origins of the Behind the Racquet movement, how to improve the well-being of tennis players and plans for the future.

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As master coach Jose Higueras says, "difficult times and times of adversity present opportunity." Although many of us would prefer to be coaching right now, this may present an opportunity to take inventory of why we do what we do and how we do it. In this episode, Dr. L and Coach Johnny discuss how to build a culture by clearly defining a teaching, coaching and playing philosophy, and identifying the values that underpin it.

Twitter:

  • Dr. Larry Lauer - @LarryLauer
  • Coach Parkes - @johnnyparkes1

Instagram: * Team USA Tennis - @teamusatennis * Coach Parkes - @johnny_parkes

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Dr. Earlynn Lauer, mental coach at the USTA National Campus in Orlando, joins Coach Johnny and Dr. L to discuss how to teach tennis players to train visualization and transfer it to matches effectively. This episode ranges from the benefits of visualization to the different ways to use it. Furthermore, ways to lead your own visualization sessions are covered as well as how to progress it over time (including practicing on court). Tennis coaches, parents, and players that listen to this episode will have a much better idea how to apply visualization to their daily training and matches.

Twitter:

  • Dr. Larry Lauer - @LarryLauer
  • Coach Parkes - @johnnyparkes1

Instagram: * Team USA Tennis - @teamusatennis * Coach Parkes - @johnny_parkes

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With the coronavirus pandemic hitting the United States competitions have been suspended around the world. It can be an anxiety-provoking time as life changes with the unknown of the impact of the virus, increased social distancing and a loss in opportunities to compete. The team discusses different ways to manage this major lifestyle change, especially for tennis players who will not be playing a tournament for some time. Ideas for how to continue working and getting better as a tennis athlete are discussed as Coach Johnny and Dr. L emphasize being creative, flexible and understanding. Parents and coaches are also encouraged to listen, since we discuss ways to work from home and how to deal with this tragic time period.

Twitter:

  • Dr. Larry Lauer - @LarryLauer
  • Coach Parkes - @johnnyparkes1

Instagram: * Team USA Tennis - @teamusatennis * Coach Parkes - @johnny_parkes

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Visualization is a well known but less understood mental skill in the performance world. Many tennis coaches and players have differing opinions on how important it is, if it's effective, and why. Coach Johnny and Dr. L tackle the subject of visualization and why it is important to the high performance tennis player. They detail how they use it with junior tennis players as well as how to train it.

Twitter:

  • Dr. Larry Lauer - @LarryLauer
  • Coach Parkes - @johnnyparkes1

Instagram: * Team USA Tennis - @teamusatennis * Coach Parkes - @johnny_parkes

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Habits are at the foundation of high performance tennis. In this podcast Coach Johnny and Dr. L take a closer look at habits and why they are important to become a better tennis player. They also talk about some of the latest strategies for sticking to habits, as well as how tennis coaches can help their players develop good habits.

The Power of Habits:

https://bit.ly/2TYpDmO

Atomic Habits:

https://fourminutebooks.com/atomic-habits-summary/

Twitter:

  • Dr. Larry Lauer - @LarryLauer
  • Coach Parkes - @johnnyparkes1

Instagram: * Team USA Tennis - @teamusatennis * Coach Parkes - @johnny_parkes

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Dr. Dan Gould, Director of the Institute for the Study of Youth Sports at Michigan State University comes on the podcast to discuss his research on Generation Z athletes. Dr. Gould takes us through the purpose of generation or cohort research, what time frame constitutes Generation Z and the characteristics that define this Generation. From there the team dives into coaching Gen Z athlete strategies. What it takes to develop high performance players is discussed as well as some of the nuances the coaches must address in working with players.

Resources:

  • Coaching Gen Z Athletes
  • Sport Parent Do's and Don'ts
  • Sport Parents

Twitter: * Dr. Larry Lauer - @LarryLauer * Coach Parkes - @johnnyparkes1

Instagram: * Team USA Tennis - @teamusatennis * Coach Parkes - @johnny_parkes

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Nine people died in the tragic helicopter crash which included NBA legend Kobe Bryant. Our team wanted to take time to celebrate and remember Kobe Bryant including his legacy as a basketball great, but also Kobe the person, the father, and the role model for so many. Leah Friedman, National Manager at the USTA, joined us to talk about her experience with Kobe on the tennis court and how Kobe not only impacted her but his love of tennis and for inspiring children to chase their dreams. JP, Leah, and Dr. Larry talk about Mamba Mentality and what it meant for so many people. They take a deeper look at Kobe the person and what his legacy was and continues to be

Resources

How Kobe Bryant became one of the NBA's all-time greatest players and an almost mythical figure in the process:

  • https://www.businessinsider.com/why-kobe-bryant-all-time-great-nba-player-2020-1

3 Things That Made Kobe Bryant One of the Greatest Players of All Time:

  • https://thriveglobal.com/stories/how-to-become-the-best-3-things-that-made-kobe-bryant-one-of-the-greatest-players-of-all-time/

Mamba Mentality:

  • https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2EtHt6h_63o

Leah Friedman Instagram:

  • https://www.instagram.com/lnfriedman/

Episode Transcript: https://go.aws/2SYh6Bb

Twitter: * Dr. Larry Lauer - @LarryLauer * Coach Parkes - @johnnyparkes1

Instagram: * Team USA Tennis - @teamusatennis * Coach Parkes - @johnny_parkes

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In this episode the guys are joined by Jason Harnett, National Manager and Head Coach of Team USA Wheelchair. They go into depth about Jason's journey into coaching wheelchair tennis and the mission of the department. Through a discussion of his journey we learn about how he became not only comfortable, but highly competent in coaching athletes in a chair. We also get into what challenges exist, how he personally has overcome them, and the genuine appreciation he has for the resilience and toughness of wheelchair players. We hope this inspires other coaches to coach wheelchair tennis players and provides coaching ideas to help you do so in a professional manner.

Episode Transcript: https://go.aws/3c3xAj0

Twitter:

  • Dr. Larry Lauer - @LarryLauer
  • Coach Parkes - @johnnyparkes1

Instagram: * Team USA Tennis - @teamusatennis * Coach Parkes - @johnny_parkes

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The Kansas City Chiefs won Super Bowl LIV in comeback fashion just as they did all three playoff games. How were they able to bounce back from these double-digit deficits? What makes KC so resilient? Dr. L and Coach Johnny discuss the leadership of Andy Reid, the brilliance of Patrick Mahomes, and what it takes to keep bouncing back.They also explore how team sport differs from individual sport (aka tennis of course) and what individual sport athletes can draw from the Chiefs' victory.

Episode Transcript: https://go.aws/2ORaxh4    Twitter: * Dr. Larry Lauer - @LarryLauer * Coach Parkes - @johnnyparkes1

Instagram: * Team USA Tennis - @teamusatennis * Coach Parkes - @johnny_parkes

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What can coaches do to develop themselves, especially young coaches? Coach Jadun of Michigan State University Men's Tennis talks about his experience in the USTA Player Development Coaching Fellowship. In addition, Jessica Battaglia, Senior Manager, PD Events and Programming at the USTA, joins us to talk about the fellowship program. The concept of the mentor-mentee relationship is discussed as a main vehicle for coach development. The topics of discussion include what to look for in a mentor, how the mentee wants to approach a mentoring and/or fellowship situation, and how to get the most out of such an opportunity.

To apply for our 2020 Professional Coaching Fellowship Program go to: http://www.playerdevelopment.usta.com/fellowship_in_professional_coaching/?

Episode Transcript: https://go.aws/3bzK69p 

Twitter: * Dr. Larry Lauer - @LarryLauer * Coach Parkes - @johnnyparkes1

Instagram: * Team USA Tennis - @teamusatennis * Coach Parkes - @johnny_parkes

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Dr. L and Coach Johnny discuss in depth, examples of how others have not only gotten through, but have thrived because of adversity in their lives. Former Navy Seal and motivational speaker and author David Goggins is discussed as someone who thrives on challenges. The team gives practical strategies and a philosophy for how to create toughness in your own life.

Episode Transcript: https://go.aws/2SzYgyW 

Twitter: * Dr. Larry Lauer - @LarryLauer * Coach Parkes - @johnnyparkes1

Instagram: * Team USA Tennis - @teamusatennis * Coach Parkes - @johnny_parkes

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Sam Jalloh, professional tennis coach, former pro player, and Sierra Leone Civil War Survivor, talks about his challenging upbringing and how it shaped him as a human being, tennis player and mental coach. It is an inspiring story of struggle and adversity leading to a wonderful life of leading through serving. Sam describes how he didn't allow his early years to break him and instead drove him to make the national tennis team and provide for his family. Sam shares his beliefs on how to reach young players of today who are provided with everything they need and aren't necessarily driven by adversity.

Episode Transcript: https://go.aws/2SlR4GA

Resources:

  • Website: http://www.sampjalloh.com/
  • Ted Talk - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MXZc3gy63k4
  • Book: https://www.amazon.com/kindle-dbs/entity/author/B07QSBT97P?_encoding=UTF8&node=2656022011&offset=0&pageSize=12&searchAlias=stripbooks&sort=author-pages-popularity-rank&page=1&langFilter=default#formatSelectorHeader

If you would like to get in touch with Sam regarding his book, motivational speaking or anything else you can contact him at: Samjalloh3@gmail.com Twitter: * Dr. Larry Lauer - @LarryLauer * Coach Parkes - @johnnyparkes1

Instagram:

  • Coach Parkes - @johnny_parkes
  • Team USA Tennis - @teamusatennis

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Dr. L and Coach Johnny are joined by Dr. Jayanthi to discuss the hot topic of sport specialization and what the latest research is asserting about youth involvement in sport. Dr. Jayanthi is considered one of the country’s leading experts on youth sports health, injuries, and sports training patterns, as well as an international leader in tennis medicine. He provides details on the findings of his research and offers solutions to the challenges around early specialization and year-round training. The team talk about what sport sampling is and its role in developing healthy tennis competitors physically and mentally along the tennis journey.

Episode Transcript: https://go.aws/2U6gYQW

Research Articles:

  • https://pediatrics.aappublications.org/content/early/2016/08/25/peds.2016-2148
  • https://pediatrics.aappublications.org/content/119/6/1242

Video: * Real Sports with Bryant Gumbul - Youth Sports Risk

Youth Tennis Study: * http://campaign.r20.constantcontact.com/render?m=1109659039631&ca=03d3fe3c-315f-4afc-b1fc-34f9f51f9c45

Twitter: * Dr. Larry Lauer - @LarryLauer * Coach Parkes - @johnnyparkes1 * Dr. Jayanthi - @NeeruJayanthi

Instagram: * Team USA Tennis - @teamusatennis * Coach Parkes - @johnny_parkes

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Too often emotion is seen as weakness, making someone vulnerable, or just plain bad. In this episode the team talks about the reality of where emotions come from and their function. The concept of emotional strength (or toughness) is detailed with examples and practical suggestions are discussed for the recreational tennis player to the touring tennis player looking to take advantage of their emotions and not let their emotions control them. A must listen for any player that struggles with managing emotions and performing under pressure.

Episode Transcript: https://go.aws/2NNBXEj 

Twitter: * Dr. Larry Lauer - @LarryLauer * Coach Parkes - @johnnyparkes1

Instagram: * Team USA Tennis - @teamusatennis * Coach Parkes - @johnny_parkes

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Dr. L and Coach Johnny talk about the misconceptions of the idea of "old school coaching" in the wake of NHL coaches being fired for misconduct. This episode will draw you into teaching best practices and those practices that coaches still do that are not effective, specifically in tennis. The philosophy of player or athlete-centered coaching vs. coach-centered coaching is debated with real world solutions for how to coach players that is individualized to their needs.

Episode Transcript: https://go.aws/2NOGNkJ 

Twitter: * Dr. Larry Lauer - @LarryLauer * Coach Parkes - @johnnyparkes1

Instagram: * Team USA Tennis - @teamusatennis * Coach Parkes - @johnny_parkes

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Coach Dave Licker of the Lakes Tennis Academy joins Dr. L and Coach Johnny to discuss his high performance junior program. The discussion ranges from the culture needed to develop young tennis players into players that can play Division 1 and professional tennis to ways to coach young players. The connection between junior development and elite collegiate and professional tennis becomes clear as the discussion continues. Recommendations are made for junior coaches in creating their high performance junior tennis program culture.

Episode Transcript: https://go.aws/35UWkWf 

https://www.lakestennis.com/

Instagram:

  • Coach Dave Licker - @davemarc10s
  • Team USA Tennis - @teamusatennis
  • Coach Johnny Parkes - @johnny_parkes

Twitter:

  • Coach Dave Licker - @davelicker10s
  • Dr. Larry Lauer - @larrylauer
  • Coach Johnny Parkes - @johnnyparkes1

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Respect is an often talked about quality that tennis coaches look for in players. In this episode we explore how respect must be defined and also how youth and adolescent tennis players may have barriers to exhibiting respect. In addition, Dr. L and Coach Johnny talk about how exhibiting respect is not only demonstrating character but enhances performance.   Episode Transcript: https://go.aws/2QS1n5o    Twitter: Dr. Larry Lauer - @LarryLauer Coach Parkes - @johnnyparkes1   Instagram: Coach Parkes - @johnny_parkes

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Irina Falconi, WTA Tour Player and co-host of the Tennis Channel Podcast joins us to discuss her journey from juniors to college to pro, and how her perspective on tennis has evolved over the years. Irina discusses the importance of taking time to recover as well as enjoying the "grind". She makes significant recommendations for parents, players, and coaches on how tennis players can strive for excellence and be happy and healthy

Episode Transcript: https://bit.ly/2NlmriP 

Twitter: * Dr. Larry Lauer - @LarryLauer * Coach Parkes - @johnnyparkes1 * Irina Falconi - @irinafalconi

Instagram: * Coach Parkes - @johnny_parkes * Irina Falconi - @irinafalconi