Are You a Tennis Snob?
By Sandra Eggers

The tennis snob is sometimes hard to spot, but they're everywhere. Usually "average" players, sometimes dressed in brand-name clothes and almost usually sporting the latest racket technology. These players think they're going to be the next club pro, but really they are deathly afraid of losing and looking bad.

Think about the social tennis games you play in, both singles or doubles. Is your opponent or partner always better than you? Do you avoid being on the same court with lesser-ranked or weaker players? Are you a non-participant in round robins when the playing levels are mixed? If so, you are at risk of becoming a tennis snob.

All tennis players were once beginners, no matter how good or bad they are today. Everyone has to start somewhere to learn and improve their game. Don't dismiss a player who's new to tennis as someone you would never share the court with just because they're not at your level. Some people are naturally good at sports, with a strong positive mental attitude, who may pick up a new game rather easily. Just because you've been playing tennis for 10+ years and they've only been at it for 1-2 years, don't assume that playing them would not be good for your game.

If you're at risk of becoming a tennis snob, here's some quick tactics you can use to turn things around and become a better player:

It's Not Uncool
There's nothing wrong with being seen on the same court with a weaker player. It means you are willing to take risks with your tennis game, and that you're good enough to hit with anyone.

It Doesn't Matter
It's great to win, but there's nothing wrong with losing, especially if you're working on improving the weaker parts of your game. At the end of the day, you know what level your tennis game is at. If you're playing an important match, of course you want to be at your best, but everything else is just practice.

Improve Your Game
Playing against a lesser opponent means you can get away with making more mistakes and still win. Think of this as a great opportunity to work on your game. If you're a baseliner, this is the time for you to take chances and come to net. Work on your serve and volley against someone with a weaker return to get practice without getting passed every time.

Image Isn't Everything
Yes, you may be able to intimidate your opponents, but do it with your game, not your attitude. You want to be known as a tennis player first and foremost. The tennis snob is not a good image to carry around.

Don't Worry, Be Happy
Tennis is a game, and it should be fun. Many of us get caught up in winning, but as the saying goes, it's not everything. Having a good time on the court is one of the greatest benefits of playing tennis.

Don't be a tennis snob. It's not good for the game, and it's not good for you. Have a good attitude about playing with people of all levels and abilities. If you run across someone who doesn't hit the ball hard enough for you, or lob more than you like, take the opportunity to work on those parts of your game against that person. You can only beat those weaker players if you've got game.

Good luck on the courts!