A Visit To The Spin Doctor!
by: Dave Winship @ On The Line

Hello. You're through to the Spin Doctor. How can I help you?

Well, Doc, I play a very steady game from the back of the court but my opponents find it easy to read. They know what's coming and attack me all the time.

So you find it difficult to upset your opponent's rhythm. Any other symptoms?

Yes, Doc. I suppose I shouldn't complain really. I mean, I don't make very many mistakes. It's just that when they attack the net, I can never seem to give them a difficult ball to volley. And when I decide to go on the attack myself, they pass me easily.

Okay. Sounds like you're suffering from a chronic form of variation deficiency. I'm going to prescribe some spins. I want you to use them once or twice a rally, but never during meals. This bottle contains Topspin which makes the ball bounce higher and apselfly pick up speed after it bounces. Use it to vary the height and length of your drives, so that you upset your opponent's rhythm. Exaggerate it to produce moonballs - particularly useful when you need time to recover your position on the court. As Topspin causes the ball to dip, use it against the net player to force him to play uncomfortable low volleys. You'll find you can also use it to produce short widely-angled shots.

What's in the other bottle, Doc?

Ah yes, that's Slice. You'll find Slice makes the ball travel slower through the air and it bounces lower. It's useful for approaching the net, because your opponent is forced to dig up a low ball that should be easy for you to volley. It can also get you out of trouble, like when you're slightly off-balance or too close to the ball or too far away from it.

What will happen if I mix them up, Doc?

That doesn't matter. In fact it's probably a good idea. Oh, and we must do something about your tension.

Do I seem tense?

No, not you. It's your racket. You'll need to have it strung a bit tighter if you're going to use spin. Leave it with my receptionist. Good day to you.

Regards.

Dave Winship