In this episode
On the 256th episode of the GreatBase Tennis podcast, Steve Smith and Constantinos Alevizopoulos are at the table and Dave Anderson is on the phone. Constantinos is coaching with Steve at the Wintergreen Resort; the beautiful mountainside facility is in Virginia. Dave leads one of the most productive junior development programs in the US at the prestigious Brookhaven Country Club in Dallas, Texas.
The three cover a few topics pertaining to Wimbledon 2025. Additionally, Dave asks Steve a few questions.
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show notes
In this episode of the Great Base Tennis Podcast, host Steve Smith is joined by co-host Costas Alevizopoulos, long-time collaborator Dave Anderson, and behind-the-scenes contributor Phil Lepisto for a wide-ranging discussion on player development, coaching philosophies, and live insights from the ongoing Wimbledon tournament. The episode begins with an update on fellow Great Base contributor Ivan Ozerets, who is supporting the team remotely while managing personal commitments.
Set against the scenic backdrop of the Wintergreen resort, the team reflects on how the peaceful and focused environment of nature supports coaching and learning. Costas shares stories from his early days playing tennis in Greece, including time spent training with professionals like Stefanos Tsitsipas. His perspective brings nostalgic depth to the conversation, underscoring the long-term journey from childhood tennis to the professional level.
The discussion naturally weaves in timeless lessons from legendary coach Vic Braden, especially his focus on fundamentals and simple, effective drills. These principles set the tone for a deeper dive into the latest developments at Wimbledon. Steve provides commentary on recent matches, including Taylor Fritz’s thrilling five-set battle with Gabriel Diallo, using it as a springboard to emphasize the critical role of movement, athleticism, and solid technique in today’s game.
The team also unpacks the performances of Cameron Norrie and Frances Tiafoe, using their contrasting styles and personalities to illustrate how individualized coaching approaches can shape a player’s development. Tiafoe’s vibrant energy and flair are discussed alongside Norrie’s quiet discipline and consistency, highlighting how athletes can use their personal attributes to enhance performance and gain a competitive edge.
Throughout the episode, the group provides updates on both the men’s and women’s draws, including standout performances from Aryna Sabalenka and other top players. Drawing on decades of coaching experience, Steve and the team examine the mental and emotional demands of elite tennis, sharing practical advice for players looking to strengthen their on-court mentality.
Listeners are reminded of the Great Base philosophy: build a strong foundation before chasing complex techniques. The conversation underscores the importance of mental toughness, adaptability, and how the evolving demands of the modern game impact young players, both technically and psychologically.
The episode closes with reflections on coaching culture, performance pressures, and the value of mentorship in tennis. By blending match analysis, personal stories, and practical coaching insights, this episode offers a rich and engaging resource for players, parents, and coaches alike—anyone invested in the art and science of tennis development.
