Second Day Like Rafa Nadal

Just the second day learning to hit left handed. We had some challenges but it is tons of fun for both of us. Little things that we have to watch for again like when I tell him his release reference point on the serve: I have to catch myself from saying the wrong thing because I am so used to saying release at 2:00 and now it is 10:00 on the imaginary clock for the lefty first serve.

The serve was a blast because it is like starting all over again. We really need to break it down and master each piece in the chain because it feels so different for him. Jordan felt like even though he would toss the ball with his right hand his brain was telling him to hurry up because he  has to hit the ball with that same hand (the mind is so powerful). So with each stroke we will create the new motor engrams so he kinetically learns to master each piece. FYI - we are seeing huge footwork improvements because the mind really has to focus on doing the right things to get him lined up and ready before the ball bounces to hit on the left side (pretty cool). I will film that next week... I did not get footwork on film today.

Learning to play like Rafa - Left handed

Having an open mind is crucial for all of us because sometimes life throws opportunities at you and you must simply take them. Follow us over the coming weeks and maybe even months as I teach Jordan Sweeney my son and student to play the game from his left side as his right side goes through the painfully slow Canadian health care system to get fixed. He is currently waiting for an MRI on the right shoulder.

This video is his first day hitting the forehand from the left side - it is short but gives us a starting point.

Straight arm mini court drill

Amazing drill to help learn the feeling in the wrist and also getting the ball out front with a straight arm at contact.