In this episode
On the 229th episode of the GreatBase Tennis podcast, Steve Smith, Ivan Ozerets, Andy Fitzell, and Dave Anderson discuss the ins and outs of making resolutions for the new year. As always, we hope our listeners find value in listening and occasionally can chuckle at our attempt at humor.
We wish everyone all the best for 2025.
Happy New Year
show notes
In this episode, we dive deep into the world of college tennis with Peter Kobelt, the head coach of the Nebraska Cornhuskers. At just 34 years old, Peter’s journey has been both inspiring and insightful, reflecting the hard work and determination that have propelled him to this prominent position in collegiate athletics.
We begin by exploring Peter’s early life and his deep-rooted connections to tennis, shaped by his family’s history in the sport. His father’s coaching journey laid the foundation for Peter’s passion, eventually leading him to be an outstanding player and recognized talent in college tennis. He shares fond memories of his collegiate career at Ohio State, remarkable achievements—including becoming an All-American— and the incredible mentors who helped him along the way, including the likes of Ty Tucker.
The conversation takes a heartfelt turn as Peter reflects on the importance of family, community, and the culture he is building at Nebraska. He discusses the thrill of being in charge of a program that has the potential to grow and flourish. Peter’s commitment to fostering a strong team environment is evident as he emphasizes the balance of winning and player development. He expresses a strong desire to cultivate homegrown talent and enrich Nebraska’s tennis culture.
We also touch upon Peter’s recruitment philosophy, focusing on the significance of nurturing local talent while finding the right balance of international players. He stresses that the success of his program hinges not only on skill and technique but also on fostering relationships within the tennis community and building a supportive network around the team.
Moreover, we delve into tactical insights as Peter reminisces about his playing days and the valuable lessons learned from competing at a high level. He candidly shares how he has adapted those experiences into his coaching style, ensuring his players not only hone their skills but also build resilience and mental toughness both on and off the court.
The episode highlights the remarkable facilities at Nebraska, underscoring the support and resources available to the players. Peter speaks passionately about the potential to transform the program and elevate it to new heights, driven by a combination of hard work, dedication, and community support.
As the episode wraps up, Peter reflects on the importance of keeping a mindset focused on growth and development in an ever-competitive landscape of college tennis. He encourages aspiring players and coaches alike to embrace the journey, learn from each challenge, and remain relentless in their pursuit of improvement. This discussion not only sheds light on the path to success in tennis but also serves as motivation for anyone looking to make their mark in sports.
