Jim Huneke Talks Tennis Coaching

Coaching tennis is not an easy thing to do. As a tennis coach with a decade and a half of experience, Jim Huneke has seen a lot of the good and bad things about coaching tennis, and has come away believing that despite the fact that it is not always easy, it is ultimately rewarding for both students and teachers. Jim Huneke would not trade his tennis coaching career for anything.

Successful tennis coaches are patient, believes Jim Huneke. Tennis can be very frustrating for the beginner, and even at higher levels there is a lot of frustration involved. Being patient with your pupils helps them to see that it is not all about the momentary frustrations, but about the bigger picture. Tennis students often feel like quitting would be the best option when they get too frustrated, and at such times, Jim Huneke says it is of vital importance to remain patient yourself and help them to see that it is not in their best interest to quit.

Tennis coaching involves being able to give good encouragement as well, says Jim Huneke. Encouragement can actually be a tricky thing, Jim Huneke says, because it is important to provide positive support without sounding patronizing. The best way to do this, Jim Huneke believes, is by really searching for the positive in everything without resorting to hokey sayings and slogans.

Positivity and authenticity go a long way in being a successful coach, says Jim Huneke. Students can sense the authenticity and it helps inspire them to greater things.