In this episode
Celebrating five years, the GreatBase Tennis Podcast brings together Steve Smith, Costas Alevizopoulos, and Dave Anderson for stories from the Kalamazoo Nationals, colorful memories of coach T.J. Tisdale, and reflections on building strong player programs. Anecdotes from decades of coaching are blended with insights on training habits, competitive mindsets, and the importance of creating ambassadors within a tennis community.
A central theme of episode 260 is documenting development through video and charting—whether analyzing strokes, reviewing match play, or tracking push-up form. The hosts outline practical systems to measure errors, strategy, and self-management, while drawing on lessons from Vic Braden and other mentors. The result is a lively mix of humor, history, and actionable advice for players, parents, and coaches.
show notes
In this episode of the Great Base Tennis Podcast, host Steve Smith is joined by co-host Costas Alevizopoulos to celebrate a major milestone—the show’s five-year anniversary. Together, they reflect on the podcast’s journey, the evolution of its discussions, and the many valuable connections built along the way.
The conversation highlights the impact of T.J. Tisdale, a passionate and charismatic figure in the tennis community known for his banter, expertise, and significant influence on player development. Costas shares anecdotes about T.J.’s transition from accomplished athlete to respected coach, praising his ability to deliver meaningful feedback and shape the experiences of junior players. They revisit some of T.J.’s remarkable playing achievements, including his powerful serve and undefeated streaks in key tournaments, and discuss his enduring contributions to the Great Base framework.
Looking ahead to national events like the renowned Kalamazoo tournament, Steve and Costas explore the importance of documenting player progress and using tools such as video analysis and charting. They emphasize how consistent filming, performance tracking, and constructive feedback can sharpen technical skills, bolster mental resilience, and cultivate emotional intelligence in young athletes.
The discussion also addresses the realities of tournament preparation, including the challenges of managing expectations, refining tactics, and measuring performance against objective data. Both hosts underscore how charting and progress tracking can inspire motivation, fuel improvement, and make learning more effective.
Throughout the episode, the value of mentorship and community within Great Base takes center stage. By reinforcing principles rooted in the teachings of Vic Braden, the conversation identifies gaps in modern training and presents strategies for instilling a growth mindset in players. The hosts reflect on how continuity, innovation, and a supportive learning environment can attract and develop a wide range of talent.
As the anniversary episode concludes, listeners are encouraged to stay the course in their own tennis journeys—combining technical proficiency with mental toughness. The overarching mission remains clear: to cultivate champions both on and off the court, while advancing the Great Base vision for teaching and player development.
