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The Prodigy Maker Tennis Show

Sports & Recreation Podcasts

Chris Lewit is an internationally recognized junior development coach, former #1 for Cornell University and Pro Circuit player. He is a celebrated educator and the author of two best-selling tennis books, The Tennis Technique Bible and The Secrets of Spanish Tennis. Chris hosts The Prodigy Maker Tennis Show where he answers tennis development questions LIVE from his worldwide audience and debates the hot topics in high performance junior development. Video replays of the show can be found at YouTube.com/ChrisLewit.

Location:

United States

Description:

Chris Lewit is an internationally recognized junior development coach, former #1 for Cornell University and Pro Circuit player. He is a celebrated educator and the author of two best-selling tennis books, The Tennis Technique Bible and The Secrets of Spanish Tennis. Chris hosts The Prodigy Maker Tennis Show where he answers tennis development questions LIVE from his worldwide audience and debates the hot topics in high performance junior development. Video replays of the show can be found at YouTube.com/ChrisLewit.

Language:

English

Contact:

9144622912


Episodes

Prodigy Making—15 Principles To Improve Junior Development and Technique. Episode 75

3/23/2024
Join Chris on the latest episode of Prodigy Maker Show as he delves into the essential principles for nurturing young tennis talents and refining technique. From prioritizing footwork to navigating the evolution of modern tennis, Chris shares invaluable insights to shape budding champions. In this episode, he covers crucial points including the importance of movement training, mastering topspin, and striking a balance between fun and technical instruction. Discover whether your player is a magician or mechanic, and gain valuable advice on avoiding burnout while safeguarding against injuries. With discussions on identifying talent, specializing early, and honing technique through quality repetitions, Chris offers a comprehensive guide to junior development. Plus, he addresses audience queries on topics ranging from the evolution of the two-handed backhand to mastering on-the-rise skills. On the show, he talks about the following: 1. Prioritize movement and footwork training. 2. Focus on topspin. 3. Make it fun but teach technique. 4. Determine if the kid is a magician or mechanic. 5. Don’t worry about burnout. 6. Worry about injuries. 7. Cross-training multiple sports is good but not required. 8. It’s okay to specialize early. 9. It’s possible to identify talent. 10. Quality repetitions unlock technique mastery. 11. Start with more conservative grips. 12. Encourage ATP type swings but don’t force it! 13. Modern tennis is aerial and should be taught and learned that way. 14. The one-handed backhand is dead—or almost dead. 15. Teach on-the-rise skills early. Don't miss out on this episode packed with actionable tips and expert advice to nurture the tennis stars of tomorrow. Vamos!

Duration:01:09:00

Swiatek, Djokovic, Nadal and the Western Grip - Prodigy Maker Show 74

12/26/2023
In Episode 74 of the Prodigy Maker Show, Chris delves into the intriguing world of modern tennis grips, focusing on the Western Forehand grip structure that has become synonymous with the success of players like Iga Swiatek, Rafael Nadal, and Novak Djokovic. —The rise of Swiatek, the first number 1 with a Western grip. —The success of Djokovic and Nadal, with near-western grips. —Should the parameters for acceptable grip structures be expanded? —Is a Bevel 5 western grip workable in today’s modern game. —Is a Bevel 6 western trip too extreme? —Will the future of tennis be more extreme grips closer to Bevel 5? —Advantages of the western grip —Disadvantages of the western grip —Myths about the western grip —Advice for coaches and players regarding grips for the forehand Join Chris as he dissects the nuances of these gripping tales, offering insights into the world of professional tennis and the evolving strategies that shape the game. Whether you're a coach, player, or tennis enthusiast, this episode is a must-watch for anyone looking to stay ahead in the ever-changing landscape of tennis techniques. Thanks to the loyal audience for all your support and for your shares! Thanks for your thumbs up and likes. Thanks for your 5 star reviews on Apple Podcasts! Follow Chris at these websites and social media links: Website: www.chrislewit.com Blog: www.ProdigyMaker.com Facebook: www.facebook.com/ChrisLewitTennisAcademy Twitter: www.twitter.com/chrislewit LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/chris-lewit-tennis-academy Instagram: www.instagram.com/chrislewittennis/ YouTube: www.youtube.com/ChrisLewit

Duration:00:40:08

Learn Practical Spanish Methods That You Can Use - Prodigy Maker Show 73

11/8/2023
Chris discusses the secrets of Spanish tennis in this webinar. He conveys the practical elements of the Spanish method that parents, players, and coaches can use practically on the court to improve themselves or their players. Chris talks about the following topics: 1. Developing consistency 2. Building racquet head speed and weapons 3. Footwork and movement training the Spanish way 4. Teaching the suffering capacity Spanish players are famous for. 5. Physical conditioning the Spanish way 6. The importance of Defense in the Spanish system It's a riveting discussion and very helpful to all players, parents, and coaches.

Duration:01:13:17

The Current State of Spanish Tennis and Carlos Alcaraz - Prodigy Maker Show Episode 72

10/12/2023
In the latest episode of the Prodigy Maker Show, Chris dives deep into the fascinating world of Spanish tennis, with a focus on the rising star, Carlos Alcaraz. Discover the evolution of tennis academies in Spain, from those that have improved to those that have struggled to maintain their standards. Chris sheds light on the new academies you should be aware of and the ones that may raise concerns. Explore what makes Spanish tennis training truly special, including its unique strengths and the methodology's enduring weaknesses. Uncover the secrets behind the endless rote drilling in Spain and the hard work and determination that define this training philosophy. Chris also delves into the coaching greatness of Juan Carlos Ferrero and Antonio Cascales, arguably the best coaches currently in Spain. Learn about Carlos Alcaraz and what you can glean from his exceptional movement and positioning on the court. Is he the Sergi Bruguera of the modern era with enhanced transition and net skills? Join us as we discuss the future of Spanish tennis and what it holds for aspiring tennis players. Don't miss this insightful episode that offers a glimpse into the world of tennis in Spain and the lessons you can learn from the pros. Subscribe now and stay tuned for more from the Prodigy Maker Show!

Duration:01:06:09

Carlos Alcaraz and Spanish Tennis Full Interview NPR - Prodigy Maker Show Episode 71

6/5/2023
Welcome to the Prodigy Maker Show Episode 71, where we dive deep into the world of Spanish Tennis and the extraordinary journey of Carlos Alcaraz. In this captivating interview with Chris Lewit, featured on NPR, we explore the secrets behind Spain's tennis success and the rise of this young sensation. Chris reveals the intriguing history of Spanish Tennis, shedding light on why this small country has dominated the tennis world. Discover the unique training methods that have shaped countless champions and find out how Alcaraz emerged as a star player, with his developmental team playing a crucial role. Join us as we explore whether Alcaraz's skills shine brighter on hard courts or clay courts. Chris also highlights the evolution of Spanish tennis development and shares insights into the changing landscape of tennis academies in Spain. Don't miss out on this comprehensive interview that unravels the captivating story of Carlos Alcaraz and offers valuable insights into the renowned Spanish Tennis phenomenon. It's time to say "Vamos!" and embark on a journey through the rich tapestry of Spanish tennis excellence.

Duration:00:40:32

Simple Things To Help Your Kid Win More At Tournaments - Prodigy Maker Show Episode 70

3/23/2023
As a parent or coach, you want to help your kids or players perform their best at tournaments. While there are many factors that go into tournament success, there are some simple strategies that can make a big difference. Here are some tips to help your kids win more at tournaments: - Pre-match, peri-match, and post-match nutrition - Warming-up routines - Why you should never sleep close to the match time - How parents should be careful about stressing their kids - Three approaches to cheating - Changeover routines - Tennis strategy - Post-match recover techniques - Timing and planning for the next match - Importance of debriefing - Using a pool vs hot tub - Importance of shower Follow Chris at these websites and social media links Website: www.chrislewit.com Blog: www.ProdigyMaker.com Facebook: www.facebook.com/ChrisLewitTennisAcademy Twitter: www.twitter.com/chrislewit LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/chris-lewit-tennis-academy Instagram: www.instagram.com/chrislewittennis/ YouTube: www.youtube.com/ChrisLewit

Duration:00:46:50

Is The One-Handed Backhand Near Extinction? - Prodigy Maker Show Episode 69

2/1/2023
On this episode of the Prodigy Maker Show, Chris discusses the positives and negatives of the one-handed backhand. He will also answer questions from the audience and talk about how fewer top pros are using a one-handed backhand in the top 100 WTA and ATP tours. Learn about the following topics on the show: - How many female players in the top 100 currently use a one-handed backhand. You may be shocked! - How many male players in the top 100 currently use a one-handed backhand. - Tsitsipas's weak one-hander versus Djokovic's strong two-hander - The primary advantages of the two-handed backhand over the one-hander - Important biomechanical and physiological differences between the one and two-handed backhands - Modern one-handed grip structure - The primary reasons that the one-hander is less and less effective on the pro tour - Myths about the advantages of the one-handed backhand Send any development or tennis questions directly to Chris at Chris@ChrisLewit.com to be answered on the upcoming show! Thanks to the loyal audience for all your support and for your shares! Thanks for your thumbs up and likes. Thanks for your 5-star reviews on Apple Podcasts! Vamos!

Duration:00:48:39

UTR Is God - Prodigy Maker Show Episode 68

12/5/2022
Chris talks tournament tennis and UTR, USTA and other systems. Chris discusses the seemingly omniscient UTR algorithm and the omnipresent UTR organization—and how they are like gods. And how players and parents can see UTR ratings like a religion. On the show Chris discusses the following topics: —Why the application of ratings and rankings can be deleterious for some players —The unhealthy obsession kids have with UTR and dangers of the current tournament scene —How parents are sabotaging their kids character and long-term tennis development by hyperfocusing on UTR —How parents can better manage the current tournament landscape —Ducking in tournaments —Withdrawals in tournaments —Chris talks about the flaws of USTA tournaments and tournament structure —How UTR rating has become a de facto tennis SAT score —The way Chris used to play tournaments and check his ranking back in the day —Chris’s SAT score! Curious? —The parallels between the rise of UTR and the rise of Pickleball —Why tennis will whoop Pickleball’s ass any day And much more! Chris is now training players in the paradise of Manchester, Vermont at his club full-time and year-round. He is also still coaching privately in the NYC area. Come train with him in Vermont at the academy or one-on-one in NY! Vamos! Thanks to the loyal audience for all your support and for your shares! Thanks for your thumbs up and likes. Thanks for your 5 star reviews on Apple Podcasts! —Follow Chris at these websites and social media links Website: www.chrislewit.com Blog: www.ProdigyMaker.com Facebook: www.facebook.com/ChrisLewitTennisAcademy Twitter: www.twitter.com/chrislewit LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/chris-lewit-tennis-academy Instagram: www.instagram.com/chrislewittennis/ YouTube: www.youtube.com/ChrisLewit

Duration:00:41:40

Is It Healthy To Instagram My Tennis Kid? - Prodigy Maker Show Episode 67

10/25/2022
Is It Healthy To Instagram My Tennis Kid? Prodigy Maker Show Episode 67 It’s a hot topic in the high performance junior tennis world: Is it healthy to Instagram your tennis kid? Chris wades into the debate. On the show he discusses the positives and negatives of featuring a child’s tennis on social platforms. Chris analyzes the following topics: —The different levels of social media sharing: Casual, Proud Parent, and Social Influencer —The risks associated with each level or sharing —Is it ethical to try and monetize your kid’s tennis? —What are some of the common ways parents can monetize the success of their tennis kid on socials? —The crazy world we live in where everything is filmed, photographed and put online —What would Toni Nadal say about Instagraming a kid’s tennis? —The safest way to share a kid’s tennis on socials with the least risk —Should your child be plugged into the social media posts or kept in the dark? —How this age of tech has spawned a new type of tennis influencer parent —Why we shouldn’t be quick to judge some parents for attempting to brand and monetize their kid This is the beginning of a larger discussion. Please send Chris your comments and questions about social media and tennis kids. Thanks to the loyal audience for all your support and for your shares! Thanks for your thumbs up and likes. Thanks for your 5 star reviews on Apple Podcasts! Please subscribe to the show! —Follow Chris at these websites and social media links Website: www.chrislewit.com Blog: www.ProdigyMaker.com Facebook: www.facebook.com/ChrisLewitTennisAcademy Twitter: www.twitter.com/chrislewit LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/chris-lewit-tennis-academy Instagram: www.instagram.com/chrislewittennis/ YouTube: www.youtube.com/ChrisLewit iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...

Duration:00:25:09

How Many Tennis Tournaments Should My Kid Play? - Prodigy Maker Show Episode 66

10/12/2022
Chris answers many common questions from parents and coaches that he has received over the years about tournaments and tournament progressions and pathways. Feel free to send Chris any specific follow up questions because this is a big complex topic. On the show, Chris describes the different tournament options for prodigies and non prodigies throughout all the junior ages—from 5 years old to older teenager. Chris also discusses how many tournaments to play and the ideal amount of training hours per week for juniors. Chris discusses the following topics: —Why most prodigies don’t do group classes at young ages —Why most elite juniors bypass Red, Orange and Green training programs —The importance of developing world-class technique at a young age —The heavy-handed tournament and junior progression mandates by the USTA —The typical pathway (ranking and tournaments) for a Division 1 tennis players from a young age —The trends in junior age and ranking that almost always accurately predict whether a kid will play D3, D1, pro, or have a chance to win slams —The difference between being a prodigy best in your age division or a prodigy best in 3 age divisions above your age —How much do typical top 10 sectional juniors practice and how many tournaments do they play —How many tournament do top 100 national ranked players play and how much do they typically practice —The choice between the USTA national circuit and the ITF Junior World Tour. Which is better? —UTR, Little Mo, Junior Tennis Tour as options to bypass USTA U10 mandates —Skipping USTA tournaments under 10 completely. Good idea? —UTR—Important or not? —How Chris sees the junior pathways and measuring sticks to judge the future potential of players. There is no crystal ball but the trends are there to see! And much more Vamos! Thanks to the loyal audience for all your support and for your shares! Thanks for your thumbs up and likes. Thanks for your 5 star reviews on Apple Podcasts! —Follow Chris at these websites and social media links Website: www.chrislewit.com Blog: www.ProdigyMaker.com Facebook: www.facebook.com/ChrisLewitTennisAcademy Twitter: www.twitter.com/chrislewit LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/chris-lewit-tennis-academy Instagram: www.instagram.com/chrislewittennis/ YouTube: www.youtube.com/ChrisLewit iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-prodigy-maker-tennis-show/

Duration:01:05:12

Grip Changes - Prodigy Maker Show Episode 65

9/28/2022
Chris discusses the evolution of grip changes at the pro and junior levels over the decades and drills down into the common pitfalls and positives and negatives of changing grips on all strokes. On the show, Chris covers the following topics: —Why grip changes can be bad and good —Why changing a grip can destroy a player—sometimes permanently —Why a coach or parent should be wary to make a grip change in a player who is sensitive, self-critical, or struggles emotionally —Why it’s riskier to change a grip in an older player —Why it’s riskier to change a grip in an advanced player —Why you should not change grips during or before important tournaments —How long it takes to perfect grip changes —Is there such a thing as the “correct” or perfect grip —Why American coaches see grips so differently than in Spain —The secret approach to grips in Spain that leads the country to more success in junior development —The best grip for the modern forehand —The forehand grip that Chris aka ways changes —The best grip structures for the modern two handed backhand —The acceptable parameters for the grip on the modern one handed backhand —Why nobody can agree on what a “continental” grip is —The acceptable serve grips —The best serve grip for spin —Why changing a grip is a lot like going in for surgery at the hospital —And more! Also, send any development or tennis questions directly to Chris at Chris@ChrisLewit.com to be answered on the upcoming show! Thanks to the loyal audience for all your support and for your shares! Thanks for your thumbs up and likes. Thanks for your 5 star reviews on Apple Podcasts! —Follow Chris at these websites and social media links Website: www.chrislewit.com Blog: www.ProdigyMaker.com Facebook: www.facebook.com/ChrisLewitTennisAcademy Twitter: www.twitter.com/chrislewit LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/chris-lewit-tennis-academy Instagram: www.instagram.com/chrislewittennis/ YouTube: www.youtube.com/ChrisLewit iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-prodigy-maker-tennis-show/

Duration:01:00:55

Live Ball Versus Dead Ball: Which is Better? - Prodigy Maker Show Episode 64

9/7/2022
It’s a huge debate in tennis development circles. Which is better: Live ball or dead ball training? Chris breaks it all down on this intriguing show. You will learn the following from Chris on this program: —Live ball. What is it? —Dead Ball. What is it? —What is Magician and a Mechanic? —The Spanish Way of drilling —How games based approaches (GBA) relates to drilling philosophy —Different ways to structure lessons and classes: 1. Open-closed-open approach 2. Closed to open 3. Open to closed —How to build discipline without drills —How hitting with a 12-13 UTR is as exhausting as doing a basket drill —Whether it is possible to develop a champion without drills —Lluis Bruguera’s drilling philosophy —William Pato Alvarez’s drilling philosophy —Robert Lansdorp’s drilling style —Jose Higueras’ drilling style —How Chris’s coaching philosophy regarding drills has changed over time —Why 8 out of 10 shots made might be more than enough or might not be nearly enough! —Should consistency be built with basket drills or live ball drill? It’s a great program with many good questions from the audience. Enjoy! Also, send any development or tennis questions directly to Chris at Chris@ChrisLewit.com to be answered on the upcoming show! Thanks to the loyal audience for all your support and for your shares! Thanks for your thumbs up and likes. Thanks for your 5 star reviews on Apple Podcasts! —Follow Chris at these websites and social media links Website: www.chrislewit.com Blog: www.ProdigyMaker.com Facebook: www.facebook.com/ChrisLewitTennisAcademy Twitter: www.twitter.com/chrislewit LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/chris-lewit-tennis-academy Instagram: www.instagram.com/chrislewittennis/ YouTube: www.youtube.com/ChrisLewit iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...

Duration:00:59:21

Dinosaur (Outdated) Technique and Tactics That Should Go Extinct - Prodigy Maker Show Episode 63

8/18/2022
Chris discusses antiquated techniques and tactics that are sadly--frequently--being taught around the US and the world. On the show, Chris shares his insight and experience on the following topics: --Chris discusses how he builds the modern elastic forehand and how most coaches and clubs are forcing kids to be too stiff and linear --Why the forehand is the most important shot to develop in the game --Why finishing lower is better than finishing higher --How Red Orange Green (ROG) programs create stiff forehands and backhands --Why the game has become more airborne and should be taught as such --Mistakes in the two handed backhand technical development process --Open stance versus closed stance development --Major serve flaws in teaching around the US --Outdated tactical patterns and strategy --Why teaching all players to go to the net and attack forwards is wrong --Why and how Spain and France excel at junior development at the grassroots broad-base level --Why most high school JV and Varsity players across the US have terrible footwork and technique --The main reasons our lower level American players have poor technique and footwork And more! Also, send any development or tennis questions directly to Chris at Chris@ChrisLewit.com to be answered on the upcoming show! Vamos! Thanks to the loyal audience for all your support and for your shares! Thanks for your thumbs up and likes. Thanks for your 5 star reviews on Apple Podcasts! —Follow Chris at these websites and social media links Website: www.chrislewit.com Blog: www.ProdigyMaker.com Facebook: www.facebook.com/ChrisLewitTennisAcademy Twitter: www.twitter.com/chrislewit LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/chris-lewit-tennis-academy Instagram: www.instagram.com/chrislewittennis/ YouTube: www.youtube.com/ChrisLewit iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-prodigy-maker-tennis-show/

Duration:01:18:07

Observations From My June 2022 Spain Study Trip - Prodigy Maker Show Episode 62

8/5/2022
Chris discusses his study trip to Spain from June 2022 while he researched for his new book, Secrets of Spanish Tennis 2. Chris answers audience questions about Spanish tennis and junior development. Check out the following resources and projects that Chris is working on: —New Instructional DVDs coming out this fall in partnership with Championship Productions —Secrets of Spanish Tennis 2nd Edition. Spring 2023 —New book Spanish Tennis Tactics —New book Spanish Tennis Wisdom —Anatomical and Biomechanical Analysis of Reilly Opellka’s Serve featured in TennisPlayer.net magazine. —The Other Toni article about the legendary Spanish coach Antonio Cascales, also featured in Tennisplayer.net magazine. On the show Chris talks about the following: —His reflections from his most recent Spain trip. The heritage and history of Sanchez-Casal Academy, now known as Emilio Sanchez Academy. —Why ESA is still a world-class academy and still special —The influence or RNA (Rafael Nadal Academy) on the world and other Spanish academies —The sad closing of the Bruguera Academy. It will be missed! —The reconstitution of the Bruguera Academy as Bardou Competition Team —The sad passing of legendary Spanish coach William Pato Álvarez —The incredible Juan Carlos Ferrero Equelite Academy in Villena —Meeting Carlos Alcaraz —How much Juan Carlos Ferrero charges for a private lesson! —The influence of Antonio Cascales, the legendary Spanish coach whom most people have never heard of —Whether UTR is in big trouble for the future And more! Also, send any development or tennis questions directly to Chris at Chris@ChrisLewit.com to be answered on the upcoming show! Vamos! Thanks to the loyal audience for all your support and for your shares! Thanks for your thumbs up and likes. Thanks for your 5 star reviews on Apple Podcasts! —Follow Chris at these websites and social media links Website: www.chrislewit.com Blog: www.ProdigyMaker.com Facebook: www.facebook.com/ChrisLewitTennisAcademy Twitter: www.twitter.com/chrislewit LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/chris-lewit-tennis-academy Instagram: www.instagram.com/chrislewittennis/ YouTube: www.youtube.com/ChrisLewit iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-prodigy-maker-tennis-show/

Duration:01:08:56

Summer Camp Pitfalls - Prodigy Maker Show Episode 61

5/9/2022
Chris discusses summer camp pitfalls—common problems kids (and parents and coaches) experience at tennis camps. Chris breaks down what parents and coaches who are sending kids to summer camp need to watch out for! —Overloaded technical programs —Non-technical programs —Watered down unprofessional fitness —Coach to student ratios —Coach quality —Famous celebrity camps —Large camps —Psychology programs Learn some of the inside information on how to navigate the summer camp scene. Additionally, Chris answers questions from the show audience: —Will Alcaraz be the next dominant force in tennis? —How did Chris get started in coaching? —Should the slice backhand be taught to juniors? Where does the slice backhand fit in developmentally? Speaking of summer camp, Chris has one of the best boarding and day student programs for high performance tennis in the country! Contact him to check it out! Also, send any development or tennis questions directly to Chris at Chris@ChrisLewit.com to be answered on the upcoming show! Vamos! Thanks to the loyal audience for all your support and for your shares! Thanks for your thumbs up and likes. Thanks for your 5 star reviews on Apple Podcasts! —Follow Chris at these websites and social media links Website: www.chrislewit.com Blog: www.ProdigyMaker.com Facebook: www.facebook.com/ChrisLewitTennisAcademy Twitter: www.twitter.com/chrislewit LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/chris-lewit-tennis-academy Instagram: www.instagram.com/chrislewittennis/ YouTube: www.youtube.com/ChrisLewit

Duration:01:01:33

Short Sets - Prodigy Maker Show Episode 60

3/30/2022
Youtube link: https://youtu.be/Pr0YI4oKQQo On our 60th program, Chris discusses the prevalence of shorter and shorter set and match formats in junior tennis and the concerns he has about this trend. Chris talks about the positive and negative aspects of short and long set and scoring formats and gives important recommendations to the audience about how to structure both training and competition for juniors who are trying to reach an elite level. On the show Chris also covers the following topics: —The mental, physical and emotional benefits of longer traditional scoring and match formats. —Why playing sets during the practice week is the simplest and most powerful way to train yourself or your players. —How to recreate longer match opportunities if you are from an area that literally has no traditional tournament formats offered anymore or rarely. —Why Chris still dislikes Pickleball and sees the sport cannibalizing the tennis industry. —The 3 things Chris hates about Pickleball: The name, the sound, and the unathletic movements. —The story of Vlada Hranchar, 6 year old tennis prodigy from Ukraine, who is now training with Chris full-time in Manchester, VT. —The ridiculous position of Little Mo, which will not allow Vlada to play in the Little Mo Nationals! More information about Vlada can be found here: https://instagram.com/vladahranchar?utm_medium=copy_link Please follow her career! Vamos! Thanks to the loyal audience for all your support and for your shares! Thanks for your thumbs up and likes. Thanks for your 5 star reviews on Apple Podcasts! —Follow Chris at these websites and social media links Website: www.chrislewit.com Blog: www.ProdigyMaker.com Facebook: www.facebook.com/ChrisLewitTennisAcademy Twitter: www.twitter.com/chrislewit LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/chris-lewit-tennis-academy Instagram: www.instagram.com/chrislewittennis/ YouTube: www.youtube.com/ChrisLewit iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-prodigy-maker-tennis-show/

Duration:00:46:07

King Richard Reflections - Prodigy Maker Show Episode 59

2/8/2022
Chris discusses his thoughts as a parent, coach, and junior developer relating to the movie King Richard. There are many thought-provoking subjects raised in the film. On the show Chris discuss the following: —Discrepancies in the film. How accurate is the movie? —Rick Macci’s decision to bankroll the Williams family. The details of the deal and how it fell apart at the end of the relationship. —What are the ways to develop a champion from a coach’s perspective? —What are the roles a parent can play in his or her child’s tennis or athletic journey? Some may be healthier and less risky than others. —Richard Williams’ decision to make his daughters’ tennis development the family business—a rare pathway. —The poison of the junior tennis tournament scene. The bad acting parents, the cheating, and more…Richard says in the movie that junior parents “should be shot.” Is he right? Is the junior tournament scene worse than Compton? —Chris concludes by discussing key takeaways from the film for parents, players and coaches. Enjoy this show and watch the movie King Richard—it’s excellent! Vamos! Thanks to the loyal audience for all your support and for your shares! Thanks for your thumbs up and likes. Thanks for your 5 star reviews on Apple Podcasts! —Follow Chris at these websites and social media links Website: www.chrislewit.com Blog: www.ProdigyMaker.com Facebook: www.facebook.com/ChrisLewitTennisAcademy Twitter: www.twitter.com/chrislewit LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/chris-lewit-tennis-academy Instagram: www.instagram.com/chrislewittennis/ YouTube: www.youtube.com/ChrisLewit iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-prodigy-maker-tennis-show/

Duration:00:56:04

Spanish Footwork and Positioning - Prodigy Maker Show Episode 58

12/17/2021
Chris explains key concepts in footwork and positioning the Spanish Way and discusses how to teach on the rise and on the fall movement. Learn why orange ball tennis inhibits learning world-class movement. Why the X drill is so important philosophically. Why on-the-rise is important but not the best way to start developmental juniors. And much more!

Duration:00:43:36

The Spanish Way To Attack The Net - Prodigy Maker Show Episode 57

12/3/2021
In this episode of The Prodigy Maker Show, Chris discusses the Spanish Way to attack the net. Learn how one of the top developmental coaches in the world teaches the volley and transition game. In Spain, the coaches typically teach going to the net in a conservative and cautious way and with some unique strategy elements. Chris also busts a lot of myths that he commonly sees regarding net play and the transition game. Many coaches are teaching a very outdated style of approaching the net. Chris relates attacking the net to boxing and MMA! It’s important to work the legs and body of your opponent before going for that knockout headshot! Chris describes the common mistakes he sees junior players make regarding the net. Some players are ultra conservative and never go there; some players are hyper aggressive and always seem to go there. Which way is right? Which way is better? What is the middle ground? Is it better to start a kid from the baseline and get solid there or start a kid attacking early? What is the best way to get a kid to the top of the national rankings under 12 or 14? Do you need to have a good net game to win a gold ball? Chris discusses the spectrum of personalities he meets and how some players are magicians, or gamblers, and need to be allowed to create at the net while other kids are conservative, like bankers, and need to be prodded to go to the net more. Learn about how to train the net and transition game the Spanish Way and how to stop teaching or playing the net in an outdated way—all on this great show! Come visit beautiful Manchester, Vermont in the mountains and train one-on-one with Chris. Vamos!

Duration:01:00:19

Moonballers - Prodigy Maker Show Episode 56

10/6/2021
Chris discuss Moonballers and moonballing. He addresses the recent controversy about moonballing at the Little Mo Regionals and Nationals and gives his perspective on this commonly used junior tennis strategy. --Is moonballing dirty tennis or honorable? --Should tourneys stop moonballing? --The good and bad about moonballing --How to stop a moonballer --The best strategy to use against a determined moonballer --What's the difference between moonballing and attacking with a heavy, high ball? --Do the pros ever moonball? --The relationship between the dropshot, pushing, and moonballing --How Chris teaches moonballing, if you want to call it that! --The best technique to use when moonballing. Join Chris for a fascinating discussion about this controversial shot! Vamos!

Duration:00:43:00