Hi Everyone! Welcome to the Park. It's always nice of you to stop by and see what old Tommie Ray has to say :-)

I would really like to talk about the backhand shot and how your shoulder should turn. Let's get one thing straight, I'm learning about this game just like a lot of you readers are. As I go along I understand some of the problems you may be having and what it feels like to get that stroke down and say, YES! That's it!

So on with the shoulder turn-- which I've found to be the most critical part of hitting the backhand. Ok, now first you got to get to the ball. Plant your pivot foot and try to get sideways to the ball and your racket should be back by this point. Now this is a good time to stop and really make sure those shoulders are turned almost to the extreme. Be like a spring ready to uncoil and then that is exactly what you do. Uncoil and drive through the ball. At first really get animated about this and don't worry about where the ball goes. I guarantee you'll see results in your backhand with more power and control. You can also practice this in your house or anywhere, just go through the motions and I'm sure it will become more automatic in time. The body will naturally do it with more practice and time. Always remember, and I know I beat this dead horse all of the time, but tennis is a developmental game and takes time and practice. Remember you get out of it what you put into it!

How fun and play the game! Thanks for stopping by.

Tommie Ray

If you have any questions or comments please email me :-)