By Marcus J. Hurtig, Owner, OZ Tennis Academy
Let’s hope the Cinderella story is here for you and your team, and you are on the way to the later rounds of the playoffs, or even you’ve reached City Finals. Having a successful season is a great accomplishment. I wish you and your team the best. Remember how to finish it off with a bang!
Player availability for both days (Sat/Sun)
As a captain, have some back-up lineups. Sometimes, your usual roster of players isn’t available for both days. So, prepare accordingly; you might have to get creative and move some bodies around. As long as the point totals work (your ALTA coordinator will help), you can get over the finish line and get the three points to clinch.
Fans/Cheering/Supporters
We all like to play in front of a crowd. Showcase your talents and keep it exciting. As a supporter, make sure you are fair in how you conduct yourself. It’s been my job as a captain to encourage my guys to support — but also to be considerate about the opposing team too. No need to clap on a double fault or an error — keep it fair so both teams can perform. Yes, keep it competitive and enjoy your matches, but having some integrity is the main goal.
Thank the volunteers
Yes, your coordinators are volunteers; they love tennis. A simple “thank you” goes a long way. My mate, Rick Griswell, was our coordinator for many years at the AA1 level, and it was nice to have him at finals day and to share a drink or a bite to eat over a tennis conversation. Rick just retired after multiple years of helping. As a captain, encouraging your players to do this will keep it all worthwhile and meaningful to show appreciation.
For those teams who came up short
It’s time to re-evaluate and learn from the season. Maybe shift your lineups for next season — add a few new players. Consider changing up partnerships. It’s not the end of the world; there is next season, and it’s right around the corner with the fall season coming in September.
Keep up the teamwork and keep practicing!
Marcus Hurtig is an ALTA ambassador, AA1 Captain (ITA Atlanta), Doubles specialist, TCAV (Level 1/2/3), and owner/operator of OZ Tennis Academy (oztennisacademy.com).
