In this episode
In this episode, Steve Smith and Dave Anderson discuss the upcoming GreatBase Tennis workshop at Ave Maria University (Dec 18–20). They reflect on the enduring coaching philosophies of two key pillars of their curriculum: Welby Van Horn and Dennis VanderMeer.
From balance training to group dynamics, they explore what made these legendary teachers effective and why their methods are still needed today. The episode also highlights the cultural shift away from fundamentals and discipline in modern tennis instruction, and why this workshop aims to help fix that.
Episode 272’s conversation ends with a call for preparation: listeners are encouraged to study in advance, come with questions, and participate fully in what promises to be an immersive three-day learning experience.
show notes
In this episode of the GreatBase Tennis Podcast, hosts Steve Smith and Dave Anderson explore key facets of tennis coaching and instruction from their respective locations, Steve in Ave Maria, Florida, and Dave in Dallas, Texas. With more than three decades of experience at Brookhaven Racquet Club, Dave offers insight into managing a large coaching staff while remaining committed to developing players of all ages and levels. The episode opens with an announcement of the upcoming December 18–20 workshop, designed to raise funds for the Ave Maria Tennis Program. Participants can expect immersive, high-value training sessions offered at a modest cost, with benefits intended to extend well beyond the event itself.
A central theme of the discussion is the eight foundational pillars of the GreatBase philosophy. Steve highlights the profound influence of Welby Van Horn, whose emphasis on body balance and innovative “no-racket” drills helped redefine the priorities of proper tennis education. Dave echoes the importance of honoring coaching pioneers such as Welby and Dennis Vandermeer, whose teachings continue to inform the GreatBase approach and inspire high standards of instruction across the sport.
The conversation examines the contrasting methodologies of these coaching legends—Welby’s precise one-on-one model versus Vandermeer’s effective group-instruction systems. Their contributions reveal gaps in modern tennis education, particularly the risk of mediocrity becoming normalized when foundational principles are overlooked. Through shared experiences and reflections on tennis history, the hosts underscore how understanding the game’s lineage strengthens contemporary coaching practices and elevates overall instructional quality.
The episode concludes with a call to action for parents, players, and coaches to engage deeply with the GreatBase Tennis community. Listeners are encouraged to prepare for the upcoming workshop by studying core concepts, reviewing educational materials, and creating lists of questions to maximize their learning experience. The goal is to foster an open, collaborative forum that enhances tennis intelligence, preserves the sport’s rich legacy, and advances progressive coaching techniques for the benefit of all.
