I started that first meeting reminding all to have their racquet re-strung to start the season. I will continue this conversation with your parents when we have our meeting on Monday. The information below gives you more necessary information on your racqets needs. Your tennis racquet is your tool for the sport, so properly maintaining is vital for success on the court. You spend many hours playing and practicing, this is a mutual investment. I want to maximize this learning experience for you by making sure you are properly prepared.
The proper shoes are a no brainer, as your safety is first and foremost. Re-gripping your racquet, which is something I've reminded a few of you about, is done without thought for those who have played the sport for a long period of time. The shock absorber is a personal thing, which some like, but some don't. Most pros don't use them. It is personal preference, and could be purchased for a $1.00 at some tennis establishments and even Walmart. You can also buy a three pack of over-grips at Walmart for $3.00. I helped many of you with this task, and I recommend you all have an over-grip in your bag. Cherry Hill Health and Tennis has a small tennis shop, where you can find a variety of grips and over-grips. Dicks and Sports Authority has a bit more variety than Walmart or Target.
Other sports require a heck of a lot more investment in equipment. I've heard from a few of you the cost of soccer equipment and league play. Tennis is minimal in comparison. You can buy a replacement grip at Walmart for $4.00, which I can help you put on. This should be done every 6 months. A good pair of 'Tennis' shoes may only cost $45-60.
One racquet that I am recommending, Prince's Hornet Hybrid O3 Mid Plus, with stringing, is only $75.00. This is a racquet that balances power and control. A string job, which I can have done, is only $20. Head's Liquidmetal 4 is another racquet that properly balances power and control. Both are not too light, over 10oz and under 11oz, and the head size is no more than 100 square inches. Both have been highly praised by various tennis publications for their quality and value. You do not need to spend $200 to get a real good tennis racquet.
In all honesty every varsity player should have two of the same racquet. If you break strings on your primary racquet while playing a match, your play may be affected with a back-up racquet that is different in weight and feel, and has year old strings. I am certain that varsity players at the good to top Olympic Conference schools have two of the same racquet. I understand this maybe perceived as costly, thus it isn't a requirement.
This is something to think about for some of you as we go forward. I also would want any of you interested in purchasing a new racquet to ask me for some advice. Tennis Warehouse is an inexpensive online retailer where you can purchase the aforementioned racquets and necessities. You may also purchase the same grip you have on your racquet now from them. www.tennis-warehouse.com They have a dearth of information for every racquet they sell, including customers reviews and specs. I can help you with this too.
http://www.tennis-warehouse.com/Prince_O3_Hybrid_Hornet_Midplus/descpageRCPRINCE-PO3HH.html
http://www.tennis-warehouse.com/Head_Liquidmetal_4/descpageRCHEAD-LM4.html
