Insider's Playbook: Smart Strategies for Competitive Senior Tennis Players Over 50

In this episode of Insider’s Playbook, we dive into the world of over 50 tennis with Kevin McCarthy, the creator of the popular YouTube channel Senior Tennis Tips. Kevin, a 4.5 player, shares how he transformed his frustration on the court into a passion for helping senior tennis players improve their game smartly and effectively. We explore his tennis evolution and the strategic, mental, and tactical changes he made to enhance his performance over 50. If you're seeking actionable insights and winning tennis strategies tailored for tennis over 50 players, Kevin's story will inspire and guide you to elevate your game. Contact Kevin McCarthy:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/seniortennistipsHeady Tennis: https://amzn.to/3VUIlwm Key takeaways for senior tennis players·      You can win more without changing your strokes—by changing your decisions·      Recording matches is a game-changer for self-awareness and growth·      Smart, repeatable patterns beat flashy shots in senior tennis·      Frustration is often the first clue you're close to a breakthrough·      Creating content can sharpen your own learning and help others along the way·      Mindset, simplicity, and clarity are the foundations of better play after 50Chapter Timeline:00:00 – Intro: Why Kevin started Senior Tennis Tips01:25 – From 3.5 to 4.5: what changed in his game03:40 – “I was doing all the right things—and still losing”05:05 – How frustration led to recording his own matches06:40 – The moment he realized he needed to play smarter09:20 – The tactical shift that helped him win more11:15 – Senior tennis players often try to fix strokes instead of strategy13:10 – What he's learned from watching hours of his own footage14:50 – Why he focuses on mindset, patterns, and simplicity16:30 – Building the Senior Tennis Tips YouTube channel18:00 – What keeps him motivated to share insights with others19:10 – The value of documenting your journey (even if no one watches)20:05 – Where to follow Kevin and keep learningAbout Senior Tennis UnpackedSenior Tennis Unpacked brings you three ways to stay sharp and inspired on court:·       Changeover — weekly articles with insights, stories, and strategies for senior players·       Insider’s Playbook — expert interview series with coaches, champions, and performance pros·       Gold Ball Tennis — my personal journey chasing national titles and sharing what I learn along the wayExplore it all at SeniorTennisUnpacked.com

If you're a senior tennis with mindset struggles, especially after injuries, confidence dips, or frustrating match results, this episode is for you. Cognitive science expert Noah Phillips returns to Insider’s Playbook to share powerful mindset tools that help senior tennis players regain confidence, stay mentally strong during setbacks, and reframe match nerves as performance fuel. From handling pressure moments to building your own "mental highlight reel," this episode is packed with age-appropriate strategies that any 50+ player can put into practice right away. Contact Noah Philips – Apex Cognition:https://apexcognitioncoaching.com/training https://apexcognitioncoaching.com/applyOr message Noah on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/apex.cognition/ Key takeaways for senior tennis playersMatch-day nerves aren’t a flaw — they’re a signal that your body is getting ready to performNegative self-talk often comes from comparing yourself to an idealized version of youThe most effective players use simple mental routines between points to reset and refocusConfidence doesn’t come from hype — it comes from remembering and reliving real past winsCreate a “mental highlight reel” of great moments and revisit them often to build resilienceJournaling and visualization are powerful tools to anchor confidence before competition Chapter Markers:00:00 - Welcome + today’s topic: confidence and resilience after setbacks01:10 - Why senior tennis players still get nervous before matches03:00 - Reframing nerves as a performance-ready signal06:00 - Negative self-talk and why it starts with unrealistic expectations09:15 - The 3-Step Mental Reset: release, recenter, refocus13:20 - Getting present between points and letting go of past mistakes14:15 - What real confidence is (and isn’t)16:00 - The Mental Highlight Reel: how to access match-ready belief17:30 - How to build a daily mental training habit18:30 - How to connect with Noah and learn moreAbout Senior Tennis UnpackedSenior Tennis Unpacked brings you three ways to stay sharp and inspired on court:·       Changeover — weekly articles with insights, stories, and strategies for senior players·       Insider’s Playbook — expert interview series with coaches, champions, and performance pros·       Gold Ball Tennis — my personal journey chasing national titles and sharing what I learn along the wayExplore it all at SeniorTennisUnpacked.com

In this episode of Insider's Playbook, host Mike Rogers speaks with performance coach Ben Wolfe about the essential warm-up routines for senior tennis players. They discuss the importance of dynamic stretching, engaging specific muscle groups, and preventing injuries to maintain competitive play, especially for people playing tennis over 50. Ben emphasizes the significance of understanding the 'why' behind warm-up exercises to motivate players to take care of their bodies. The conversation also touches on practical tips for quick warm-up routines that can be done before matches.Contact Coach Ben Wolfe:Website: https://wolfetennisperformance.comWorkshops: https://wolfetennisperformance.com/tennisworkshops      Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wolfetennisperformance             Key Takeaways:Focus on holistic player development, including fitness and injury prevention.Use gym workouts to support tennis performance, not as the primary workout.Cardio exercises like rowing and biking are preferred over running to reduce joint stress.Sprinting is beneficial for maintaining speed and preventing injuries.Strength training should focus on isolating muscles to avoid joint wear.Incorporate isometric exercises during the tennis season to prevent over-rotation.Balance gym workouts with tennis play to avoid overtraining.Start with manageable workout routines to build consistency.View gym workouts as a tool to enhance tennis skills, not a burden. Chapter Timeline:·       0:28 - 0:38: Introduction to holistic player development·       0:53 - 0:57: Exercises and routines for strength and mobility·       1:21 - 1:25: Importance of gym workouts for tennis·       2:49 - 2:57: Cardio recommendations and sprinting benefits·       4:23 - 4:29: Strength training focus and isometric exercises·       9:23 - 9:29: Balancing tennis and gym workouts About Senior Tennis UnpackedSenior Tennis Unpacked brings you three ways to stay sharp and inspired on court:·       Changeover — weekly articles with insights, stories, and strategies for senior players·       Insider’s Playbook — expert interview series with coaches, champions, and performance pros·       Gold Ball Tennis — my personal journey chasing national titles and sharing what I learn along the wayIf you are serious about winning more matches after 50, go to SeniorTennisUnpacked.com It’s Free to Join and get all the resources.

In this episode of Insider's Playbook, host Mike Rogers discusses the challenges of injuries and setbacks in tennis with Noah Phillips, founder of Apex Cognition. They explore the mental and physical aspects of recovery, emphasizing resilience and mindset shifts. Noah shares insights on using setbacks as opportunities for growth and the importance of focusing on the process rather than results. The conversation also highlights the role of mental training in overcoming physical limitations and achieving long-term success.Contact Noah Philips – Apex Cognition:https://apexcognitioncoaching.com/training https://apexcognitioncoaching.com/applyOr message Noah on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/apex.cognition/ Key Takeaways:Physical setbacks are also mental challenges, affecting identity.Recovery requires both physical therapy and mindset work.Focus on comparing yourself to your past self, not others.Building a resilient mindset can prevent and aid recovery.Chronic injuries can become part of one's identity.Process focus leads to better long-term results than outcome focus.Weight training is crucial for older athletes' resilience. Chapter Markers:00:00:00 - Introduction to Insider's Playbook00:01:00- The Mental Challenge of Physical Setbacks00:03:00- Building a Resilient Mindset00:05:00- Process Focus vs. Outcome Focus00:07:00- The Role of Mental Training00:09:00- Opportunities in Setbacks00:11:00- Conclusion and Contact Information About Senior Tennis UnpackedSenior Tennis Unpacked brings you three ways to stay sharp and inspired on court:·       Changeover — weekly articles with insights, stories, and strategies for senior players·       Insider’s Playbook — expert interview series with coaches, champions, and performance pros·       Gold Ball Tennis — my personal journey chasing national titles and sharing what I learn along the wayExplore it all at SeniorTennisUnpacked.com

In this episode of Insider’s Playbook, Mike Rogers is joined by senior tennis champion, Men’s 65’s Singles #1 and ATP Title winner Mark Vines to break down the tactical mindset behind dominating at the net. Whether you’re a 3.0 looking to build confidence or a tournament-level senior tennis player refining your game, this conversation covers the practical positioning, movement cues, and shot decisions that separate winning doubles teams from frustrated ones.Mark shares real match scenarios, footwork patterns, and volley strategy adjustments every senior tennis player can use to win more points, hold serve more often, and finally feel comfortable moving forward.Contact Mark Vines:Email: mevtennis@hotmail.comWebsite: www.SeniorTennisTraining.comFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/SETcampsYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MarkVines-SeniorTennisTrainingKey TakeawaysSenior Tennis Players Need Net Confidence: Most avoid the net out of fear, but smart positioning and movement, not flashy technique, win pointsYou Do Not Have to Crush Volleys: Mark emphasizes that placement and presence at the net are more important than perfect strokesNet Players Should Stay in Motion: Staying light on your feet, reacting to opponent cues, and dancing at the net are core winning habitsEarly Prep Beats Fast Hands: Preparing early and watching the right triggers is more effective than just reacting fastDoubles Success Comes from Communication: Frequent eye contact, pre-point signals, and small adjustments make a huge difference in net performancePractice Movement, Not Just Technique: Drills that emphasize motion, anticipation, and decision-making simulate real-match success far better than basket-fed volleysChapters0:58 – The #1 mindset shift senior players need at net2:10 – Common mistakes: standing still, not anticipating3:35 – Mark’s ideal net positioning & body cues5:05 – The difference between aggressive and smart6:20 – Why bad volleys still win matches7:40 – Net movement triggers (what to watch for)9:15 – Stay in motion: dancing at the net10:50 – The one drill Mark teaches every new doubles team12:10 – Why being active earns free points13:40 – Communication hacks with your partner at net15:00 – Singles players learning to volley: mindset differences16:25 – Mark’s advice for hesitant net players18:00 – Volley confidence starts with early prep, not swing technique19:10 – Body language that changes momentum21:00 – What Mark teaches senior players about net poaching22:30 – Game-based drills that build anticipationAbout Senior Tennis UnpackedSenior Tennis Unpacked brings you three ways to stay sharp and inspired on court:• Changeover — weekly articles with insights, stories, and strategies for senior players• Insider’s Playbook — expert interview series with coaches, champions, and performance pros• Gold Ball Tennis — Pro Tips and my personal journey chasing national titles and sharing what I learn along the wayExplore it all at SeniorTennisUnpacked.com

How do you handle pressure when everything’s on the line? In this episode of Insider’s Playbook, Mike Rogers talks with 21-time gold ball champion and senior tennis legend Brent Abel about performing under stress in tiebreakers, match points, and finals. Brent breaks down how senior tennis players can use between-point routines, visualization, and self-talk to stay composed, think clearly, and play their best—especially when it matters most.Whether you're gunning for gold or grinding out league matches, this conversation will rewire how you think about pressure. It’s a must-listen for any competitive senior tennis player who wants to trade nerves for clarity.Contact Coach Brent Abel:eMail: Brent@webtennis.comWebsite: webtennis.comYouTube: youtube.com/@webtennisTwitter:  twitter.com/webtennis Takeaways·      Manage Between-Point Time·      Clarity Beats Confidence·      Visualization Builds Mental Muscle·      Practice with Pressure Constraints·      Self-Talk Is the Game-Changer·      Confidence Starts Off Court Chapters0:00 – Intro: Brent’s achievements + today’s topic1:21 – The mental key to handling pressure moments2:10 – Why managing time between points is everything3:00 – You’re not the only one feeling pressure4:12 – Use your 12 games of intel before the tiebreak6:00 – Stop future-tripping: focus on starting the next point7:10 – Visualization training: how to rehearse tiebreak pressure9:00 – Practicing pressure with constraints10:20 – Why stroke mechanics won’t save you in pressure11:01 – Translating the mindset to doubles15:30 – Self-talk that flips confidence during a match17:00 – Why affirmations work (and why not using them is riskier)18:30 – Brent’s undefeated 2023 and mental prep secrets20:00 – Confidence is built before you step on court21:00 – Brent’s daily affirmation routine22:00 – Forget “why” you choke—build the mental system23:30 – Where to find Brent’s course, YouTube, coachingAbout Senior Tennis UnpackedSenior Tennis Unpacked brings you three ways to stay sharp and inspired on court:·       Changeover — weekly articles with insights, stories, and strategies for senior players·       Insider’s Playbook — expert interview series with coaches, champions, and performance pros·       Gold Ball Tennis — my personal journey chasing national titles and sharing what I learn along the wayJoin the STU Nation for FREE and get 3 bonus guides at Senior Tennis UnpackedBonus Guides:·       Up Your Tennis Game — Smart strategies to win more·       Frustrated to Focus — Mental reset for better matches·       Get Fit Get Strong — Tennis-specific strength and mobility plan

When you're facing a stronger player—on paper, in the draw, or in your head—how do you keep from losing the match before it even starts?In this episode of Insider’s Playbook, senior tennis legend Brent Abel (21 national titles, ITF World Doubles Champion, founder of WebTennis.com) joins Mike Rogers to unpack what actually works when you're up against better competition. From mindset shifts to on-court strategy, Brent explains why trying to “play up” usually backfires—and what to do instead.Whether you're the underdog or just feel outmatched, this episode delivers the mental and tactical tools to stay calm, compete smart, and use every match as a learning opportunity. Contact Coach Brent Abel:eMail: Brent@webtennis.comWebsite: webtennis.comYouTube: youtube.com/@webtennisTwitter:  twitter.com/webtennis Takeaways·      Stop trying to play your “A+ game” ·      Make them play ·      You can level up without winning ·      Avoid the “respect trap” ·      Probe your opponent, not your pro ·      Practice what pressure feels like .·      Being consistent is a weapon  Chapters00:00 – Introduction to Brent Abel01:13 – Why players lose before the match starts03:50 – Brent’s breakthrough mindset05:35 – The myth of needing to go bigger06:42 – Playing down to weaker opponents08:13 – How to play regardless of level09:04 – “Going for it” vs. going smart11:17 – What to do when you’re outmatched12:52 – The illusion of giving too much respect14:37 – Ask better questions post-match17:08 – What high-level consistency actually looks likeAbout Senior Tennis UnpackedSenior Tennis Unpacked brings you three ways to stay sharp and inspired on court:·       Changeover — weekly articles with insights, stories, and strategies for senior players·       Insider’s Playbook — expert interview series with coaches, champions, and performance pros·       Gold Ball Tennis — my personal journey chasing national titles and sharing what I learn along the wayJoin the STU Nation for FREE and get 3 bonus guides at Senior Tennis UnpackedBonus Guides:·       Up Your Tennis Game — Smart strategies to win more·       Frustrated to Focus — Mental reset for better matches·       Get Fit Get Strong — Tennis-specific strength and mobility plan

In this episode of Insider’s Playbook, host Mike Rogers talks with Stephen Bourne, founder of One Minute Tennis, former professional player, and creator of one of the fastest-growing tennis YouTube channels of 2023.Stephen coaches three tour players, multiple international-level seniors, and clients well into their 90s—and his seven books on tennis technique have helped players worldwide simplify their game and play with feel.Together they explore what it takes to coach and learn across generations—from kids discovering tennis through play to senior players mastering technique through clarity and purpose.You’ll hear practical drills, mindset shifts, and real stories that show why age is no barrier to improvement.Contact Coach Stephen Bourne:Email: oneminutetennis@gmail.comYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@oneminutetennis      Website: www.oneminutetennis.comBooks by Stephen: www.oneminutetennis.com/general-7 Takeaways1.     Play to learn keeps tennis engaging at any age.2.     Reverse psychology rewards effort, not just results.3.     Fun competition sustains focus and confidence.4.     Adult players need the why to commit to change.5.     Simplified biomechanics make advanced strokes teachable.6.     The Perfect 15 game builds pressure-proof serving.7.     Great players train under pressure, not away from it.8.     Senior lessons deserve the same respect as elite sessions.9.     Coaches’ attitudes shape learning outcomes more than age.10.  Lifelong curiosity—like a 93-year-old learning Russian—drives improvement. Chapters00:00 – Intro · Mike Rogers welcomes Stephen Bourne01:15 – Teaching across ages · why individual differences matter02:50 – “Play to learn, don’t learn to play” explained03:40 – Tic-Tac-Toe & Gladiator games for young players06:30 – How coaching seniors differs · understanding the “why”09:50 – The Perfect 15 serve game · training under pressure13:00 – Story of 93-year-old · the power of mindset15:00 – Coaching tips for senior players · respect the lesson18:20 – Balancing ambition & ability as we age21:00 – Parents, kids & reducing junior tennis dropout rates26:30 – Closing insights · coaching philosophy & longevityAbout Senior Tennis UnpackedSenior Tennis Unpacked brings you three ways to stay sharp and inspired on court:• Changeover — weekly articles with insights, stories, and strategies for senior players• Insider’s Playbook — expert interview series with coaches, champions, and performance pros• Gold Ball Tennis — my personal journey chasing national titles and sharing what I learn along the wayExplore it all at https://mike-tennis.com

In this unique episode of Insider’s Playbook, senior tennis legend and mental-performance coach Mark Vines returns to explore one of the most overlooked tools in the tennis arsenal: the grunt. Far from being just a noisy habit, Mark breaks down the science and psychology behind grunting — and how it can boost power, improve timing, and relax the body under pressure.He shares the physiological benefits, the biomechanics involved, and his personal findings from studying players at tournaments. If you've ever wondered when and how to use a grunt (without sounding like a human leaf blower), this episode gives you practical cues, drills, and mindset shifts to make it part of your competitive game — without crossing the line into hindrance.Contact Mark Vines:Email: mevtennis@hotmail.comWebsite: www.SeniorTennisTraining.comFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/SETcampsYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MarkVines-SeniorTennisTraining  Key Takeaways·  Grunting is not just noise — It’s a physical cue that helps support the spine, release tension, and signal the body to relax and swing freely.·  Exhaling adds power — Players who grunt consistently often hit the ball harder without trying harder.·  Mistakes happen when you hold your breath — Mark’s field study showed players were 3x more likely to miss when silent.·  You don’t need to be loud — Even a soft grunt or saying “yes” can trigger the same biomechanical benefits.·  Practice it deliberately — Use it during training, and videotape yourself to ensure you’re exhaling on contact.·  Don't drop it in matches — The pressure of competition can cause players to abandon good habits. Grunt anyway.·  The serve is non-negotiable — Always exhale before and during the service motion for better rhythm and relaxation.·  You have to own it — Don’t match your opponent’s energy. Make the grunt part of your routine, not theirs. Chapters01:19 – What's acceptable vs. annoying01:37 – The science behind the grunt03:00 – How grunting improves relaxation and timing05:00 – The “Yes” alternative to the grunt06:27 – When to start your breath and grunt08:33 – Mark's 4-player experiment11:00 – Why you lose your grunt during matches13:38 – Practice like you play16:08 – Which strokes benefit most from a grunt17:37 – Sound cues from the pros18:13 – Final takeaway: Don't mirror your opponent19:02 – How to work with Mark VinesAbout Senior Tennis UnpackedSenior Tennis Unpacked brings you three ways to stay sharp and inspired on court:• Changeover — weekly articles with insights, stories, and strategies for senior players• Insider’s Playbook — expert interview series with coaches, champions, and performance pros• Gold Ball Tennis — my personal journey chasing national titles and sharing what I learn along the wayExplore it all at https://mike-tennis.com

In this episode of Insider's Playbook, host Mike Rogers speaks with performance coach Ben Wolfe about the essential warm-up routines for senior tennis players. They discuss the importance of dynamic stretching, engaging specific muscle groups, and preventing injuries to maintain competitive play. Ben emphasizes the significance of understanding the 'why' behind warm-up exercises to motivate players to take care of their bodies. The conversation also touches on practical tips for quick warm-up routines that can be done before matches.Contact Coach Ben Wolfe:Website: https://wolfetennisperformance.comWorkshops: https://wolfetennisperformance.com/tennisworkshops      Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wolfetennisperformance             Takeaways·      The more you move on the court, the more important warm-up is.·      Static stretching is not effective before playing tennis.·      Dynamic stretching involves movement and is crucial for warming up.·      Engaging shoulder muscles helps prevent injuries.·      Strengthening the stomach can alleviate back issues.·      Knee pain often indicates issues elsewhere in the body.·      Glute activation is essential for overall strength and injury prevention.·      A quick warm-up can be done in under 10 minutes.·      Understanding the reasons behind warm-up routines motivates players.·      Taking care of your body now can prevent future injuries. Chapters00:00 The Importance of Warm-Up for Senior Tennis Players10:42 Dynamic Stretching and Engagement Techniques13:42 Understanding the Why Behind Warm-Up RoutinesAbout Senior Tennis UnpackedSenior Tennis Unpacked brings you three ways to stay sharp and inspired on court:·       Changeover — weekly articles with insights, stories, and strategies for senior players·       Insider’s Playbook — expert interview series with coaches, champions, and performance pros·       Gold Ball Tennis — my personal journey chasing national titles and sharing what I learn along the wayJoin the STU Nation for FREE and get 3 bonus guides at mike-tennis.comBonus Guides:·       Up Your Tennis Game — Smart strategies to win more·       Frustrated to Focus — Mental reset for better matches·       Get Fit Get Strong — Tennis-specific strength and mobility plan

SummaryJoin host Mike Rogers on "Insider's Playbook" as he sits down with tennis legend Brent Abel, a senior player with 21 gold balls and a wealth of experience. In this episode, Brent shares his journey from tournament nerves to mastering performance anxiety, offering practical tips for players at every level. Discover how to desensitize yourself to pressure, the importance of pre-match routines, and the mental strategies that can elevate your game. Whether you're a seasoned player or just starting out, Brent's insights are sure to inspire and guide you. Tune in for an engaging conversation filled with wisdom and actionable advice. Contact Coach Brent Abel:eMail: Brent@webtennis.comWebsite: webtennis.comYouTube: youtube.com/@webtennisTwitter:  twitter.com/webtennis Chapters:00:00 – Introduction: Meet Brent Abel01:23 - Overcoming Nerves: Anxiety to confidence.04:31 - Pre-Match Preparation: Routines and mental readiness.06:58 - In-Match Strategies: Managing nerves and probing opponents.12:40 - Between-Point Routine: Brent's four-part system19:32 - Connecting with Brent: How to reach out to Brent20:23 - Closing Thoughts: Final reflections and appreciation.About Senior Tennis UnpackedSenior Tennis Unpacked brings you three ways to stay sharp and inspired on court:·       Changeover — weekly articles with insights, stories, and strategies for senior players·       Insider’s Playbook — expert interview series with coaches, champions, and performance pros·       Gold Ball Tennis — my personal journey chasing national titles and sharing what I learn along the wayJoin the STU Nation for FREE and get 3 bonus guides at mike-tennis.comBonus Guides:·       Up Your Tennis Game — Smart strategies to win more·       Frustrated to Focus — Mental reset for better matches·       Get Fit Get Strong — Tennis-specific strength and mobility plan

Join host Mike Rogers in this insightful episode of Insider's Playbook as he chats with Noah Phillips, a cognitive science PhD candidate and founder of Apex Cognition. They explore the impact of emotional regulation on maintaining focus during tennis matches, especially for senior players. Learn how to harness life experiences to enhance your mental game and turn setbacks into growth opportunities.Contact Noah Philips – Apex Cognition:https://apexcognitioncoaching.com/training https://apexcognitioncoaching.com/apply Or message Noah on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/apex.cognition/Key Takeaways:• Emotional regulation is key to maintaining focus during matches. • Life experiences provide valuable mental frameworks for decision-making. • Nonjudgmental awareness helps transform setbacks into learning opportunities. • Structured strategies like TPAL can prevent emotional spirals.Chapters:0:00 Introduction to Insider's Playbook 1:15 Meet Noah Phillips and Apex Cognition 3:45 Cognitive Changes in Aging Athletes 7:30 The Role of Emotional Regulation 12:00 Strategies for Nonjudgmental Awareness 16:20 Practical Applications of TPAL About Senior Tennis Unpacked:Senior Tennis Unpacked brings you three ways to stay sharp and inspired on court:• Changeover — weekly articles with insights, stories, and strategies for senior players• Insider’s Playbook — expert interview series with coaches, champions, and performance pros• Gold Ball Tennis — my personal journey chasing national titles and sharing what I learn along the wayExplore it all at https://mike-tennis.com

In this episode of Insider’s Playbook from Senior Tennis Unpacked, host Mike Rogers sits down with legendary player and coach Mark Vines to uncover the mental strategies that separate good senior players from great ones. Mark draws from decades of competitive experience — from reaching world No. 110 as a touring pro to winning over 25 gold balls — to teach you how to flip the “coach switch,” reset after tough points, and build mental toughness on the court.Whether you struggle with overthinking, staying calm under pressure, or keeping your focus through a long match, this episode will give you concrete steps to coach yourself effectively and play with clarity and confidence.Contact Mark Vines:Email: mevtennis@hotmail.comWebsite: www.SeniorTennisTraining.comFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/SETcampsYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MarkVines-SeniorTennisTraining Key Takeaways• Separate the Coach and the Player – Learn to step back mentally, give yourself specific, constructive cues, and re-enter play with purpose.• Use Physical & Verbal Cues – Techniques like turning your back between points, saying reminders out loud, and using mantras to reset focus.• Build Reset Routines – Simple breathing and body rituals (tapping your racket, dipping before serve) to regain composure before big points.• Develop Clarity of Purpose – Narrow your focus by setting 2–3 specific goals for practice or match play and reviewing them between games.• Self-Coach Consistently – Use post-match analysis and performance sheets to grade yourself and make continuous improvement a habit.• Leverage Video & Live Coaching – Video analysis and tournament-side coaching can accelerate progress and help you see blind spots.Chapters00:00 – Introduction & Mark’s Background01:24 – Why Separating Coach and Player Matters03:50 – Specific, Positive, Out-Loud Coaching07:07 – Becoming Your Own Best Coach09:08 – Reset Routines & Physical Cues for Big Points11:34 – Mantras and Mental Clarity on Court13:20 – Breaking the Overthinking Cycle16:37 – Practicing Mental Skills During Training18:51 – Writing Down Goals & Performance Sheets19:21 – The #1 Mental Technique Seniors Should Build20:32 – How to Work with Mark (In-Person, Video, Tournament Coaching)23:53 – Closing Thoughts & TakeawaysAbout Senior Tennis Unpacked:Senior Tennis Unpacked brings you three ways to stay sharp and inspired on court:• Changeover — weekly articles with insights, stories, and strategies for senior players• Insider’s Playbook — expert interview series with coaches, champions, and performance pros• Gold Ball Tennis — my personal journey chasing national titles and sharing what I learn along the wayExplore it all at https://mike-tennis.com

In this episode of Insider's Playbook, host Mike Rogers dives into essential winning tennis strategies for players over 50 with Ben Wolfe, founder of Wolfe Tennis Performance. They focus on senior tennis and the unique challenges experienced by tennis players over 55, emphasizing how mindset, purposeful practice, and seeking tougher competition can elevate your game. Ben shares expert advice on embracing discomfort and strengthening mental toughness, encouraging players to enjoy the continuous learning process. Whether you're new to senior tennis or a seasoned player looking to improve, this episode offers valuable insights to compete smarter and more effectively on the court.Contact Coach Ben Wolfe:Website: https://wolfetennisperformance.comWorkshops: https://wolfetennisperformance.com/tennisworkshopsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/wolfetennisperformanceTakeaways• Players over 55 can make simple adjustments for improvement.• A beginner's mindset is crucial for growth in tennis.• Practicing more and playing less can lead to better results.• It's important to analyze matches to identify weaknesses.• Using a ball machine can enhance practice effectiveness.• Playing with better players exposes weaknesses and fosters growth.• Mental toughness is built through challenging experiences.• Loving the process of improvement is essential for success.• Accountability in fitness can enhance performance on the court.• Practice with purpose and seek feedback to improve.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Senior Tennis Strategies01:10 Easiest Adjustments for Players Over 5503:16 The Importance of Practice vs. Play06:17 Mindset and Learning from Matches10:43 Using Ball Machines Effectively12:16 Playing with Better Players16:48 Building Mental Toughness19:10 Loving the Process of ImprovementAbout Senior Tennis Unpacked:Senior Tennis Unpacked brings you three ways to stay sharp and inspired on court:• Changeover — weekly articles with insights, stories, and strategies for senior players• Insider’s Playbook — expert interview series with coaches, champions, and performance pros• Gold Ball Tennis — my personal journey chasing national titles and sharing what I learn along the wayExplore it all at https://mike-tennis.com

Welcome to Insider’s Playbook — your blueprint for smarter senior tennis. Hosted by a fellow senior tennis player, this interview series features elite coaches, top competitors, and mental performance pros who know what it takes to win in leagues, tournaments, and high-pressure moments. No fluff. No recycled tips. Just real-world strategies for players over 50 who still want to compete and succeed.