Eat, Sleep, Tennis, Repeat
I can play tennis. I grew up the youngest of six kids—and when I was #1 on my high school team and later #3 on my college team, I was still fourth-ranked in my own family! Make no mistake, tennis is in my DNA and I still play any chance I get. But invariably, I develop lazy techniques and need a tune-up.
Enter the IMG Academy’s Adult Tennis Camp in Bradenton, Florida. This is the same tennis mecca begun by the late tennis coaching legend Nick Bollettieri. He bought a 40-acre tomato field in 1978—and now it’s a massive 600 acre comprising 20 sports. IMG Academy bought from Nick in 1987. Ten former #1 players have trained there—from Andre Agassi to Serena Williams. It’s legendary.
I first attended the adult tennis academy 32-years ago (!) and have come back several times since. I always love my time on that campus: It’s clean, safe and there’s positive energy in the air.
My wife, Erin, and I checked into the 5-floor Legacy Hotel at IMG Academy where we enjoyed three meals a day in the lobby restaurant–and easy access to the courts. (There are 58 courts on a variety of surfaces.)
We had six adults in our class, mostly professionals from all over the country: An ER doctor from Texas, a PhD Engineering Professor from Virginia and a money manager from Manhattan. We made new friendships as we bonded over our mutual love of tennis.
The program is run by two excellent instructors who have worked together for 20+ years, Roger and Jonathan. They both know tennis—and are excellent at diagnosing issues.
They taught me to dip my racquet-head and get below the ball before making impact.
The importance of tossing with a straight arm (“like it’s in a cast”) and standing tall and hitting up on the serve.
Value added: The Director of Player Development at IMG Academy—and former #5 in the world– visited our class. Jimmy Arias is credited with revolutionizing the modern forehand—and he showed us why it’s important to keep a loose arm and twist the entire body for each shot. Short video: https://www.youtube.com/shorts/b7ArneEElQs
We had several days of clinics, two-hour sessions, twice a day with great meals in between. There were also discussions on nutrition and the power of self-talk. There are a number of packages from which to choose. Details at www.IMGAcademy.com.
We had an excellent experience–helpful lessons, healthy food and interesting people. I’m already looking forward to going back next year!
Ray Collins is a Sarasota-based travel writer with 200 published. He’s the on-court announcer for several pro and junior tennis events on the Gulf Coast of Florida including the Sarasota Open. Details at: www.RayCollinsMedia.com
