(By Larry Hodges) Many players tend to strongly favor either offense or defense. Even at higher levels, many players are very comfortable attacking, but get very uncomfortable and inconsistent when the opponent attacks first. At lower levels, it’s often the reverse, where they are most comfortable pushing and blocking, and hoping the opponent misses. One […]

(By Larry Hodges) This is a simple one. When a player has a good lead or is playing a seemingly weaker player, they often play to “not lose.” This means lowering their own level of play, since they are no longer doing what they normally do. They are literally abandoning whatever gave them that lead […]

(By Larry Hodges) I’ve written tips on attacking the middle, but it can’t be overemphasized how important this is. It’s likely the most under-used rallying tactic at the intermediate and even advanced intermediate level. Advanced players don’t have this problem – it’s usually their go-to spot. What are the advantages of attacking the middle? If […]

(By Larry Hodges) You’ve practiced, you’ve worked with a coach, you’ve done physical training, you’ve done mental training… you’re ready for the tournament. What could go wrong? Let’s see . . . the floor’s slippery, so you can’t move… it’s humid, so the ball is sliding off the racket . . . and the only […]