In this episode
In this episode of the GreatBase Tennis Podcast, Steve Smith and Dave Anderson announce a three-day workshop set for December at Ave Maria University. Open to all, the event aims to spotlight tennis’s “golden growth opportunity” by focusing on the eight core pillars of the GreatBase curriculum and beyond.
They discuss the need to improve tennis coaching at all levels, not just through better technique but through deeper lessons in character, discipline, and education. From grip fundamentals to life skills, episode 271 reinforces that developing great players starts with developing better teachers.
show notes
In this episode of the GreatBase Tennis Podcast, hosts Steve Smith and Dave Anderson discuss the upcoming GreatBase Workshop, scheduled for December 18–20 in Naples, Florida. The event will focus on the eight pillars of the GreatBase curriculum while creating an open, collaborative environment for parents, players, and coaches. Designed to promote both technical and personal development, the workshop offers juniors free participation, underscoring GreatBase’s mission to make quality tennis education accessible to all.
The conversation highlights tennis as a powerful vehicle for character development. Dave emphasizes that success—on and off the court—comes from doing what must be done even when motivation lags, drawing parallels between life’s challenges and competition in tennis. Both hosts stress the importance of resilience, integrity, and perseverance in player development, advocating for coaching that integrates character education with technical instruction.
Steve and Dave reflect on their coaching experiences and preview the workshop’s diverse curriculum. With contributions from more than 100 coaches, participants can expect sessions rich in “Mind Vitamins”—mental-strength strategies, practical drills, and tactical insights. The workshop will also cover singles and doubles strategy, emergency shots, and the use of video analysis to improve performance.
Throughout the discussion, Steve raises the growing need to elevate tennis education in an increasingly competitive recreational landscape. The hosts touch on the rise of pickleball and explore how foundational tennis skills can enhance performance across both sports. They reaffirm that strong instruction, rooted in fundamentals, is key to sustaining tennis’s long-term growth and appeal.
As the episode concludes, Steve and Dave express enthusiasm about reconnecting with alumni, peers, and new participants at the upcoming event. The workshop promises to go beyond skill instruction—fostering community, collaboration, and lifelong learning. The hosts invite listeners to join them in Naples for an enriching experience that strengthens both the technical and character foundations of every participant.
