Hi Team Stony Tennis,

I am writing to share some important news regarding our team. It is with mixed emotions that we announce Ritu, our dedicated administrator since July 2023, will be leaving us on Friday 17th January.
Ritu’s hard work, dedication, and unwavering support have been instrumental in serving everyone at Team Stony Tennis. Her contributions have made a lasting impact, and she will be greatly missed by all of us. We are incredibly grateful for everything she has done and wish her all the best in her future endeavors.

As we bid farewell to Ritu, we are pleased to introduce Arunava, who will be stepping in as our new administrator. He is eager to continue the great work Ritu has done and ensure a seamless transition. We are confident that Arunava's expertise and enthusiasm will help us continue to provide the high level of service you have come to expect.

Please join me in thanking Ritu for her remarkable service.

If you would like to send Ritu a farewell message, then please feel free to reply to this email and as I know it will mean a lot to her as she has become very attached to everyone at Team Stony Tennis.

Good luck on your next adventure Ritu!

John Cavill
​
Director of Tennis

Hi Team Stony Tennis, 

Following on from Tuesday's email, I have had a few requests to share a drill to help you practice using speed, spin, height, and direction effectively. This drill is designed to mimic match situations and improve your tactical decision-making on court.
The Tactical Quadrant Drill

Setup:

1. Divide your side of the court into four quadrants using markers or cones:

• Front Left (Drop Zone)
• Front Right (Drop Zone)
• Back Left (Deep Zone)
• Back Right (Deep Zone)

• Place a practice partner or coach on the opposite side of the net.

Objective:

Hit to specific zones using different combinations of speed, spin, height, and direction based on instructions.

Instructions:

1. Warm-Up Phase:

• Rally with your partner, alternating shots to each quadrant.
• Use light topspin and aim for consistency.

2. Speed Challenge:

• Alternate between fast, flat shots to the Deep Zones and slower, high topspin shots to the Drop Zones.
• Focus on quick transitions between offense and defense.

3. Spin and Height Focus:

• Hit a high topspin shot to a Deep Zone (back left or back right), followed by a low slice to a Drop Zone (front left or front right).
• Practice controlling the height and spin for precision.

4. Directional Play:

• Alternate hitting cross-court and down-the-line shots to specific quadrants.
• Example: A cross-court topspin shot to the Back Left, followed by a down-the-line slice to the Front Right.

5. Match Simulation:

• Play out points with your partner, but with a twist:
  • On each point, one player must focus on using two elements (e.g., speed and direction), while the other uses the remaining two (e.g., spin and height).
  • Rotate roles after every 10 points.

Key Tips:

• Keep track of which tactics feel natural and which need more practice.
• Communicate with your partner or coach for feedback on placement and effect.
• Gradually increase the intensity to mimic real match conditions.

Outcome:

This drill helps you build tactical awareness and control under pressure. It also teaches you to adapt your shots based on court position and your opponent’s weaknesses.
Please let me know what you think of this drill and if you are interested in learning more drills to help you in the future.

Happy tennising!

John Cavill
​
Director of Tennis

Hi Team Stony Tennis

Tennis is as much a mental game as it is physical. While technical skills are essential, understanding how to use speed, spin, height, and direction tactically can be a game-changer in matches. These elements allow you to outthink and outplay your opponent by controlling the flow of the game. Let’s explore how you can incorporate these tools into your strategy:

Speed: Control the Pace of Play

Speed refers to how fast you hit the ball. Varying the speed can keep your opponent guessing and disrupt their rhythm.

• When to use fast shots: Hit with pace during offensive moments, such as when attacking a short ball or aiming for a winner.
• When to slow it down: Use slower shots, like a slice or high topspin ball, to neutralize a hard-hitting opponent or to recover from a defensive position.

Spin: Add Variety and Unpredictability
Spin affects the ball’s bounce and trajectory, making it harder for your opponent to predict your next move.

• Topspin: Adds height and safety over the net, making the ball kick up on the bounce. Use it for consistent rallies or when playing high to an opponent’s weaker side.
• Slice: Causes the ball to skid low and stay out of your opponent’s strike zone. Perfect for defensive play, approaching the net, or forcing errors.
• Flat shots: Minimal spin for speed and penetration. Use flat shots when going for winners or hitting through the court.

Height: Gain Time and Create Angles

The height of your shots affects both the speed and difficulty of your opponent’s return.

• High balls: Use a high topspin shot to push your opponent deep into the court, especially if they struggle with overhead shots or on their backhand side.
• Low balls: Slices and drop shots keep the ball low, forcing your opponent to bend or move forward, disrupting their rhythm.

Direction: Control the Court

Changing the direction of the ball keeps your opponent moving and opens up opportunities to dictate play.

• Down the line: Use this to surprise your opponent or when they’ve left a wide-open gap you can exploit.
• Cross-court: Offers greater safety due to the longer diagonal distance and is great for rallying.
• Into the body: Aiming at your opponent’s torso can jam their swing and force weak returns.

Combining Elements for Maximum Impact

These elements work best when combined. For example, a high topspin shot cross-court can push your opponent back, followed by a quick, flat down-the-line shot to seal the point. Or, a low slice to the backhand can be paired with a fast approach to the net, pressuring your opponent to hit a difficult passing shot.

By mastering speed, spin, height, and direction, you’ll have a versatile toolbox to adapt to any match situation. Practice these in your training sessions and watch your tactical game soar!
Let me know how these strategies work for you or share your favourite tactics with me—I’d love to hear from you!

Happy tennising!

John Cavill
​
Director of Tennis

Hi Team Stony Tennis

When you think about a tennis coach, the first thing that likely comes to mind is someone who helps players perfect their forehand, develop a killer serve, or master the mental side of competition. While these are crucial aspects of what we do, coaching goes far beyond the court. For many of us, coaching is about nurturing individuals—not just as athletes, but as people.

The other night, I bumped into Ashton! Ashton was one of my first students when I started coaching at the club. He was only 5 when I started coaching him and now, he is 19! We have never had an adult conversation as he dropped out of tennis a couple of years ago to pursue his Rugby, but it was wonderful to see what a fantastic young man he has become and maybe some of the experiences he has had through tennis has helped. He has also still got great friends he keeps in touch with which were part of the club when he was here.

Tennis is more than a game; it’s a journey that offers countless life lessons. Coaches often play a pivotal role in that journey, especially for young players. Beyond teaching technique, we foster resilience, discipline, and sportsmanship. Over years of working together, trust develops, creating a space where young players feel supported and encouraged to take risks—on and off the court.
The long-term relationship between coach and player allows potential to blossom in ways that go beyond rankings or trophies. It’s about helping young players believe in themselves and realize what they are capable of achieving.

As coaches, we’re there to celebrate victories and guide players through setbacks. But perhaps most importantly, we’re there to teach them how to manage those challenges with grace and perseverance. These lessons don’t just make them better tennis players—they help prepare them for the challenges they’ll face throughout life.

Coaches aren’t just for kids, either. Adults come to the court seeking more than just a better backhand. For many, tennis provides a vital escape from the pressures of work, family, and the demands of daily life. A good coach recognizes this and creates an environment where players can not only improve but also decompress, recharge, and reconnect with themselves.

Through regular sessions, coaches often become a trusted confidant. Whether it's offering a listening ear, providing a motivational boost, or simply sharing a laugh, we create a space where adults feel supported—not just as players, but as people juggling life’s complexities.

Tennis mirrors life in so many ways. Every point demands focus. Every match requires resilience. And every loss teaches humility and the value of persistence. Coaches who commit to their players—mind, body, and soul—understand this and use the sport as a vehicle for personal growth.

When we help someone learn to problem-solve on the court, we’re giving them tools they can use in their daily lives. When we encourage them to face adversity with determination, we’re instilling a mindset that serves them well in relationships, careers, and beyond.

Coaching isn’t just a job—it’s a calling. The joy of seeing a young player achieve their dreams, or helping an adult rediscover their passion, is immeasurable. Our commitment to people goes beyond teaching skills; it’s about fostering confidence, resilience, and a sense of belonging.

So, the next time you step onto the court, remember: a coach isn’t just there to help you win matches. They’re there to help you win at life.

The last day of the program is this Saturday, 21st December and we return on Monday 6th January 2025. I hope you have a wonderful Christmas and New Year.

Happy tennising!

John Cavill
​
Director of Tennis

Hi Team Stony Tennis

As we wrap up the final week of our tennis program for 2024, I want to take a moment to reflect on the incredible year we've shared at Stony Stratford Tennis Club. It has been a truly remarkable journey filled with achievements, milestones, and wonderful memories.

Looking back through our Facebook page reminds me of the many highlights that have made this year so special. The level of play continues to rise, with Alisha Ndukwu breaking into the top 10 under-16 players and Kyle Babbage moving to Bath to train full-time while competing in International Tennis Federation junior competitions. We are also immensely proud of Nicholas Morrell, Emily Marshall, Shravanti Venkatakrishnan, and Sofia Cancel, who are regularly competing at the national level.

These successes are a testament to not only the players’ dedication but also the unwavering support of their parents, who spend countless hours traveling across the country to cheer them on. Their commitment fuels the growth of these young athletes, and we are so grateful for their role in the Team Stony journey.

It’s equally rewarding to see so many players competing in regional, county, and local tournaments. Hearing consistent praise about their exceptional behavior and team spirit is heartwarming. For me, this embodies what we stand for as a club, and everyone should feel immensely proud.

Key Highlights of 2024

• Majorca Training Trip: In February, I travelled to Majorca with four players to train at the Global Tennis Team Academy. The experience of high-intensity clay court training under my mentor, Jofre Porta—former coach to Rafael Nadal and Carlos Moya—was unforgettable.
• First LTA Grade 3 Tournament: In April, we hosted our first LTA Grade 3 tournament, cementing our place on the tournament circuit map. We are thrilled to host this prestigious event again in 2025.
• Coaching Team Expansion: We welcomed three new coaches—Nick Boys, Toby Draper, and Hindi Karim—to the team this year. We also bid farewell to Phil Hill, who returned to Kent after 10 incredible years with us. Longevity is rare in our industry, yet Coach Lam and Coach Richard have now been with us for over a decade, and Coach Jason is nearing five years. Their dedication is at the heart of our success.
• Summer Camps: This summer, our camps reached a record-breaking 1,347 spots filled! These camps continue to grow thanks to a well-structured format that combines skill development with fun activities.
• Junior Club Championships: This year, we revamped the championships, scheduling events over a single weekend prior to the finals. This change led to a fantastic finals’ day in September.
• Junior Development: Beyond playing, several juniors have taken their first steps into coaching through our Tennis Leaders courses and the LTA Level 1 coaching program. Tennis offers so many pathways, and we’re proud to help our juniors build valuable life skills.
• Festive Fun: Our recent Junior Christmas Party and coaching team night out were the perfect way to celebrate the year. Tennis is not just about competition—it’s a social sport, and these moments of connection are what truly make Team Stony special.

Throughout the year, I’ve sent emails like this one to keep everyone informed and inspired. With over 300 participants in the program, individual communication can be challenging, but I hope these updates have made everyone feel connected. Your feedback and support have been invaluable.

Thank You and Looking Ahead to 2025
​
As we close out the year, I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to everyone—players, parents, coaches, and members—for making Stony Stratford Tennis Club the incredible community it is. Together, we’ve built something truly special, and I look forward to continuing this journey in 2025.
If you have any great stories to share or just want to get in touch, please feel free to reply to this email. In the meantime, I wish you and your families a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

Happy tennising!

John Cavill

Director of Tennis

Hi Team Stony Tennis

As a devoted Everton fan, I am used to dealing with disappointment on a regular basis  Last weekend, Everton were meant to play Liverpool in the last every Merseyside Derby at Goodison Park (Everton’s 132-year-old home ground) as they move to a new stadium next season. Due to the storms, I decided to drive up the night before, so I limited the issues of driving on the day of the match, but at 9am on matchday, it was announced that the game was postponed!
Not only was I £250 out of pocket, due to last minute accommodation and forfeiting my train ticket, I had done 6 hours of driving for nothing.

So, I could look at this in 2 ways! Disappointment and disaster OR acceptance and appreciating it is what it is. Me, being me, took the second option…Everton didn’t get beaten, no one was killed or harmed, I got to spend 6 hours and a night away with my wife and I made it back to the Club Junior Christmas Party!

There are far more concerning issues in life and this will go down as a story to tell the grandkids. The match will be rearranged, and everything will be fine.

In tennis, as in life, disappointment is inevitable. Whether it’s a missed match point, an off day at practice, or falling short of a goal, every player experiences moments of frustration. But these moments are also opportunities for growth, resilience, and self-reflection.
Shifting your mindset to view the positives in disappointment can take practice and I would like to share a few insights with you.

Disappointment often stems from unmet expectations, but it's also a sign that you’re striving for something greater. Tennis legends like Rafael Nadal or Serena Williams didn’t reach the top without setbacks. Each loss taught them something valuable, helping them refine their skills, strategies, and mental toughness. The next time you’re frustrated, ask yourself: What can I learn from this?

It’s easy to focus solely on results, but the process matters more. Did you give 100% effort? Did you execute your game plan, even if it didn’t yield the desired outcome? By celebrating your effort and commitment, you build a stronger foundation for long-term success. Remember, even the best players can’t control every outcome, but they can always control their attitude and effort.

When things don’t go your way, it’s a chance to identify areas for improvement. Maybe it’s your fitness, footwork, or focus during crucial points. Every setback is feedback, guiding you to become a more complete player. A helpful exercise is to write down what went wrong and what you’ll do differently next time. This not only gives clarity but also empowers you to take action.

Sometimes we get so caught up in results that we forget the joy of playing. Tennis is about more than winning – it’s about the friendships you build, the fun of competing, and the personal growth you experience. Whenever disappointment strikes, take a moment to reflect on what you’re grateful for in your life and tennis journey. It’s a powerful way to maintain perspective.

Lean on your tennis community during tough times. Coaches, teammates, and fellow players can provide encouragement and advice. Sharing experiences and learning from others can inspire you to keep pushing forward. We all need someone to help us succeed in this life!

One effective way to move past disappointment is to visualize success. Picture yourself overcoming challenges and performing at your best. Then, set realistic, achievable goals to help you get there. Progress, no matter how small, builds confidence.

Disappointment, while difficult, is a natural part of growth. Each setback teaches you something new and brings you closer to your goals. Embrace these moments as part of your journey and remember, success isn’t measured by trophies alone but by the person you become along the way.

So, the next time you step on the court or when life serves up some curveballs, approach with a mindset of resilience and gratitude. The game of tennis – much like life – is about perseverance, passion, and progress.

Here’s to embracing the challenges and celebrating the victories, big or small!

Happy tennising!

John Cavill
​
Director of Tennis

Hi Team Stony Tennis

What a fantastic time we had at our Junior Christmas Party on Saturday, 7th December! The festive spirit was in full swing, and it was heart-warming to see so many of our younger and older players coming together to celebrate the season.

A huge thank you goes out to Coach Toby for organizing such a wonderful event. From the games and activities to the pizza and drinks, everything was perfectly planned, and the smiles on everyone’s faces said it all!

Tennis is more than just a game – it’s a community, and events like the Christmas party remind us of the importance of coming together off the court. Social gatherings are so valuable for human interaction, away from the iPad and other devices. You can see the bonds that have been built amongst the juniors which is truly inspiring. It’s moments like these that foster mentorship, camaraderie, and shared passion for tennis, regardless of age or skill level.

These off-court events create an inclusive environment where everyone feels welcome and strengthens our culture at the club. It’s not about rankings or forehands but about connecting, laughing, and making memories together, which we have done a lot of over this year!

As we approach the new year, we’re excited to host more events that bring our community together. From tournaments and social mixers to coaching workshops, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. All will be advertised in advance.

If you have ideas for future gatherings or would like to help organize, please let me know by replying to this email!

Thank you to everyone who attended the Junior Christmas Party and helped make it such a memorable occasion. Let’s carry this festive spirit into the new year as we continue to grow and strengthen our incredible tennis family.

Wishing you all a joyful holiday season.

Happy tennising!

John Cavill
​
Director of Tennis

Hi Team Stony Tennis

As the days have grown shorter and temperatures dropped, it might be tempting to put the tennis racket aside and wait for sunnier skies. However, winter is a crucial time for players to prepare their minds and bodies for the demands of competitive tennis. Whether you’re aiming to improve your match performance, fine-tune your skills, or build physical resilience, winter preparation lays the groundwork for success in the coming season.

Here’s why winter preparation matters and how players can make the most of this season.

Why Winter Preparation is Essential

1. Building a Strong Foundation
   Winter is an ideal time to work on foundational fitness and skills without the pressure of immediate competition. Developing strength, endurance, and technical proficiency during this period sets you up for peak performance when the season starts.
2. Injury Prevention
   Tennis is a physically demanding sport that stresses specific muscle groups. A targeted off-season training regimen focusing on flexibility, strength, and stability can help prevent common injuries such as tennis elbow, shoulder strain, and ankle sprains.
3. Mental Resilience
   Training in the winter builds mental toughness. Braving the cold or tackling challenging indoor sessions fosters discipline and prepares players to handle adverse conditions during matches.
4. Skill Refinement
   Without the distractions of tournaments, winter offers a perfect opportunity to hone technique. Breaking down strokes, focusing on footwork, and mastering new strategies can yield significant improvements.

How to Prepare Effectively in Winter

1. Physical Conditioning

• Strength Training: Incorporate exercises targeting core, legs, shoulders, and arms. Stronger muscles not only improve performance but also enhance injury resistance.
• Cardiovascular Fitness: Activities like running, cycling, or HIIT (High-Intensity Interval Training) boost endurance, crucial for maintaining energy during long matches.
• Flexibility and Mobility: Yoga or dynamic stretching routines can improve flexibility and prevent stiffness, enhancing your range of motion.
• Tactical and Technical Focus

• Video Analysis: Review past match footage to identify areas of improvement.
• Shadow Drills: Practice strokes and footwork without a ball to perfect technique and muscle memory.
• Targeted Practice: Work with your coach to focus on specific aspects of your game, such as a more consistent serve or quicker reaction at the net.

• Indoor Training
  Tennis runs all year around at Stony with our indoor courts! Hitting indoors allows for uninterrupted sessions and precise focus on technique without the interference of weather.
• Match Simulation and Strategy

• Point Play Practice: Simulate match scenarios to practice decision-making under pressure.
• Doubles Skills: Work on teamwork and communication if you compete in doubles.

• Mental Training

• Visualization Techniques: Spend time visualizing successful matches, focusing on both physical execution and emotional composure.
• Goal Setting: Outline specific, measurable goals for the upcoming season and track your progress throughout the winter.

• Recovery and Nutrition

• Prioritize recovery with adequate rest, stretching, and hydration.
• Maintain a balanced diet rich in lean protein, complex carbs, and healthy fats to fuel training and recovery.

Staying Motivated Through the Cold Months

1. Set Short-Term Goals
   Break the winter into smaller phases with specific goals to achieve in each period. Celebrate milestones to stay motivated.
2. Train with a Partner
   Working with a hitting partner or joining group sessions can add an element of fun and accountability.
3. Embrace Cross-Training
   Engage in complementary activities like swimming or skiing to keep workouts fresh and exciting while building overall athleticism.

Reaping the Benefits in Spring

When the competitive season arrives, the hard work done during winter will translate into better performance, reduced injury risk, and greater confidence on court. Winter preparation is about building a player who’s physically ready, technically sharper, and mentally resilient.
So, don’t let the cold weather hold you back—use it to your advantage. By staying active and focused through the winter months, you’ll be ready to dominate the courts when the season begins.
If you need any help with any of the items I have mentioned in this article, then please send me a message and I will be able to help.

Happy tennising!

John Cavill
​
Director of Tennis

Hi Team Stony Tennis

I’m thrilled to share that tomorrow, I’ll be stepping out of my comfort zone to present for the very first time at the British Tennis Coaches Association’s Annual Conference! This incredible two-day event gathers coaches from across the country to network, share ideas, and learn from a variety of presenters, and I’m honoured to be part of it.

For me, this experience feels like walking onto the match court for the very first time—exciting, full of opportunity, but also a little daunting! It’s a chance to share some of the knowledge I’ve gained over my 30 years in tennis while representing Stony Stratford Tennis Club and showcasing the fantastic coaching program we’ve built together.

My on-court presentation is titled Turbulence in Tennis. It explores how to create challenging environments that push players out of their comfort zones and into the development zone. I’ll be joined by two County Champions from the club—16-year-old Emily and 9-year-old Sofia—who have both been with me since they were 4 or 5 years old. It’s a proud moment to showcase their talent, our program, and our wonderful club on this national stage.

Since launching Team Stony Tennis in 2023, we’ve achieved tremendous success. A huge part of this is down to the amazing coaching team, our improved processes, and the enhanced way we operate and communicate. These advancements have boosted player progress, customer satisfaction, and even caught the attention of coaches and clubs nationwide.

At the conference, I’ll also deliver two business presentations. The first is called ‘Elimination, Automation, and Outsourcing’ where I will help coaches identify and streamline their workload by eliminating unnecessary tasks, leveraging technology, and effectively delegating.

The second is called ‘Planning and Preparation’ and I will be sharing my system for planning a year-long calendar of activities, ensuring marketing, staff coordination, and program delivery run smoothly and successfully.

As my coaching journey evolves, it’s a privilege to step into this new challenge and contribute to the coaching community in a different way. Thank you all for your continued support—it means so much to me as I take this exciting step forward!

Happy tennising!

John Cavill
​
Director of Tennis

Hi Team Stony Tennis

We’re excited to invite your children to the Stony Stratford Tennis Club Junior Christmas Party!

Date: Saturday, 7th December
 Time: 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM
 Location: Clubhouse

This festive event promises fun and games, pizza, and drinks for all our junior members! It's a great chance for the kids to celebrate the season with their tennis friends, enjoy some holiday cheer, and make wonderful memories.

Cost: FREE for all club members!

Register now to secure a spot: Click here to register

We can’t wait to see everyone there to kick off the holiday season in style. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out.

Happy tennising!

John Cavill
​
​Director of Tennis