How to Find a Better Partner
1. Become a better player:
Have you every wondered why the best players at the club always have great partners? The reason is simple. Players want to partner with the best because they want to win. Focus your energies on becoming the better player who others want to partner with. Spend time on the ball machine, commit to a regular lesson schedule, or develop a better serve and return. After this, you will need a secretary to screen your calls for players wanting to play with you.
2. Develop a positive attitude:
Do you keep a positive attitude throughout a match? Do you stay upbeat with your partner or do you quickly find flaws in her game (especially after a loss)? Spend some time thinking about your attitude and how you can improve it. When you develop a more positive attitude, two things occur; you will enjoy your tennis more, and stronger players will be more willing to play with you.
3. Look for compatibility in a partner:
Compatible is defined as: “able to coexist; well suited” (The Pocket Oxford Dictionary, eighth edition, 1992). Here is a list of statements to help you gauge whether a potential partner is well suited for you. Place a “Yes” or “No” after each statement.
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My potential partner has a positive attitude.
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My potential partner is willing to practice and work on her game
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My potential partner is willing to take work-outs and lessons together
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I like my potential partner
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I play the deuce side and my potential partner likes the ad side (or vise versa)
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Our styles are complementary (one player consistent, one player aggressive)
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I enjoy my potential partner’s sense of humor
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I like the way my potential partner and I communicate with each other
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My potential partner is a team player
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My potential partner doesn’t take things too personally
Results (# of “Yes” responses):
9 or10 - this partner is a keeper!
7 or 8 - you will do O.K. with this partner, although there are some issues that might have to be worked through.
6 or lower - You need to seriously consider looking elsewhere.
© Greg Fowler