In this episode
In this episode of the GreatBase Tennis Podcast, Steve Smith and Dave Anderson continue their series on the eight pillars of the GreatBase curriculum, focusing on two coaching icons, Peter Burwash and Harry Hopman. They explore how Burwash set new standards of professionalism and service in coaching, while Hopman embodied fitness, discipline, and respect for the sport.
The hosts also discuss the upcoming Tennis Golden Growth Opportunity workshop at Ave Maria University, designed to honor the methods of these great teachers and pass their lessons on to today’s players, parents, and coaches.
More than a history lesson, episode 274 is a call to action, to bring back the work ethic, professionalism, and purpose that once defined tennis instruction.
show notes
In this episode of the GreatBase Tennis Podcast, co-hosts Steve Smith and Dave Anderson explore the upcoming Tennis Growth Opportunity event, highlighting its impact and value for players, parents, coaches, and committed tennis enthusiasts. Designed for participants of all ages and backgrounds, the December gathering in South Florida aims to establish a strong developmental foundation while offering a warm, energizing environment far removed from colder seasonal climates. The hosts emphasize the event’s potential to inspire long-term improvement, reinforce fundamentals, and bring the tennis community together.
Reflecting on past GreatBase initiatives, Steve and Dave discuss how previous workshops have jump-started coaching careers and provided transformative learning experiences. They note that the structured environment of this event will offer attendees more depth and clarity than typical training settings. With free admission for juniors attending with a parent, teacher, or coach—and a $365 registration fee for adults supporting the Ave Maria University tennis program—the event underscores its community-centered purpose while remaining accessible.
Throughout the conversation, the hosts pay tribute to influential coaching figures whose philosophies shaped modern tennis instruction. They honor the legacy of Peter Burwash, known for elevating professionalism within the teaching profession, and recognize Harry Hopman’s uncompromising work ethic and comprehensive training systems. These historical touchpoints frame an ongoing discussion about maintaining high standards in coaching while resisting shortcuts and trends that do little to serve true player development.
The dialogue moves to the contrast between celebrity coaching culture and the foundational work performed by developmental coaches who guide beginners through the critical stages of learning. Steve and Dave encourage listeners to appreciate the value of long-term pathways over temporary hype, emphasizing that sustainable progress depends on coaches who understand and apply core principles with consistency and purpose.
As the episode continues, the hosts advocate for a strong educational framework for coaches—one that goes beyond the surface-level instruction often found in franchised camps. Drawing inspiration from the structured yet adaptive approaches of Burwash and Hopman, they outline the need for deeper community involvement and more comprehensive developmental systems within tennis programs nationwide.
Listeners seeking more information or wishing to engage in the GreatBase community are invited to connect with Steve directly through email or phone. The episode concludes with an enthusiastic call for parents, players, coaches, and program leaders to join the December event, which promises a meaningful experience capable of shaping future tennis journeys and strengthening the broader coaching landscape.
