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The Art of Tennis

The Art of Tennis

Rick Willsmore 5 Episodes Aug 12, 2026

The Art of Tennis helps tennis coaches improve their coaching skills and business acumen. Hosted by Coach Rick Willsmore, a former NCAA college player and award-winning coach, the podcast covers four key areas: branding, coaching, player development, and systems. It aims to help coaches build a life through tennis and make a positive impact on thousands of people.

Episodes

How Many Hours Oncourt is Too Many Hours for a Tennis Coach?
How Many Hours Oncourt is Too Many Hours for a Tennis Coach? Aug 12, 2026 1450 In this episode, I break down how many hours tennis coaches typically spend on court each week. This is based on the 5 tennis coaching jobs I had before my current business and also how I balance being a business owner and a coach. As career coach you need to get to 30 hours a week minimum to earn enough income and as a business owner there is a risk of being on court too much, at the expense of w
From The Market Garden To The Ad Agency: Jobs That Shaped me as a Coach
From The Market Garden To The Ad Agency: Jobs That Shaped me as a Coach Aug 6, 2026 1466 From the market garden to the ad agency- this episode is about the real life jobs I worked before and during my coaching career. Labouring, apple picking, working in sales, even a stint in advertising - these roles gave me lessons in patience, communication, work ethic and people skills that I carry onto the court today. So for all coaches out there, all jobs teach you something and they can help
Keys To Junior Tennis Club Success
Keys To Junior Tennis Club Success Jul 30, 2026 1205 In this episode I discuss the importance of junior club and team tennis. It offers kids a different perspective on tennis very different than a tournament would. I discuss my club Scarborough and the success we developed over the years with our junior club. We have won 34 junior premierships in 8 summer seasons with just under a 1/3 of our teams winning their shields. Play players in the division
Dressing Up Tennis: Premium Lessons, Events and Experiences
Dressing Up Tennis: Premium Lessons, Events and Experiences Jul 27, 2026 1323 In this episode I go over the fundamentals of a great tennis event and how to specific guests a more premium tennis experience whether it be lesson or event.This can start from something as simple as a grip service pre lesson to iced drinks, demo racquets through to $150-$350 per ticket tennis days with full hospitality and entertainment packages.Are you a tennis coach business owner and Intereste
When Should Junior Tennis Players Move Up a Level?
When Should Junior Tennis Players Move Up a Level? Jul 21, 2026 1340 In this episode is all about the sometimes difficult decision on when it’s time to move a player up to a higher team, squad or tournament. Often there is a need for a player to be challenged more however develop winning habits and being able to consistently beat those just below you, is also essential. Are you a tennis coach business owner and Interested in learning more - sign up to a free 14 day
The 1, 3 and 6 day a week junior tennis player
The 1, 3 and 6 day a week junior tennis player Jul 15, 2026 1373 In this episode I cover the different types of players and how much they commit or invest in their game. From 1 day a week activity/casual player, 3 day a week Club player and 6 day a week aspirational committed player. Are you a tennis coach business owner and Interested in learning more - sign up to a free 14 day newsletter here - https://theartoftennis.kit.com/a7c87026f3
Building Your Tennis Brand
Building Your Tennis Brand Jul 8, 2026 1257 In this episode I discuss what a brand is and what it means for tennis coaches. Brand and marketing has long been a side interest for me and I cover common misconceptions and brand perceptions.Coaches need to spend time building their brand.Are you a tennis coach business owner and Interested in learning more - sign up to a free 14 day newsletter here - https://theartoftennis.kit.com/a7c87026f3Che
Spotting Potential In Young Tennis Players
Spotting Potential In Young Tennis Players Jun 30, 2026 1246 In this episode I talk about when we as coaches discover that keen young player who is passionate about the game. I discuss the importance of looking at the big picture and seeing it as a 10 year journey.Are you a tennis coach business owner and Interested in learning more - sign up to a free 14 day newsletter here - https://theartoftennis.kit.com/a7c87026f3CheersRick
Daily Coaching Schedules
Daily Coaching Schedules Jun 23, 2026 1259 In this episode I go over the entire days coaching schedule. From before work tennis players to day time lessons, after school and into the evening there are potential lessons everywhere. This will help you as coaches to work out who you should be focusing on to build out your schedule. Are you a tennis coach business owner and Interested in learning more - sign up to a free 14 day newsletter here
From Employee To Business Owner - The Cashflow Quadrant
From Employee To Business Owner - The Cashflow Quadrant Jun 16, 2026 1335 In this episode I discuss Robert Kiyosaki’s book, Rich Dad Poor Dad cashflow quadrant and how this can relate to tennis coaches. Employee, self employed, business owner, Investor. As a tennis coach there are advantages and disadvantages to all these quandrants. Are you a tennis coach business owner and Interested in learning more - sign up to a free 14 day newsletter here - https://theartoftennis.
How to Coach a Great Group Lesson
How to Coach a Great Group Lesson Jun 11, 2026 1334 This is all about how to run an engaging group tennis lesson. As a coach this is how you can expand your clientele by showcasing how great a tennis session with you can be. I cover how’s it’s ok to have a different coaching style and you should lean into your strengths. A poor lesson though is found on the extremes, from far too boring and technical to full of nothing but ‘hoo haha’, full of enthu
From Fun to Fitness: What Motivates People To Play Tennis?
From Fun to Fitness: What Motivates People To Play Tennis? Jun 3, 2026 1209 In this episode I cover why players take up the game — the real reasons people start their tennis journey and the different types of players who come to the sport.Understanding your players' why is one of the most powerful tools in your coaching toolkit.Are you a tennis coach business owner and Interested in learning more - sign up to a free 14 day newsletter here - https://theartoftennis.kit

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