When we talk about junior tennis development, it is easy to immediately go to the tennis. How is their forehand? Are they serving well enough? Do they need another private lesson? Should they be playing more tournaments? Those things matter, but I think sometimes we get so focused on developing the tennis player that we forget we are developing a child at the same time. A useful way to look at junior development is through four areas: physical, cognitive, emotional, and socia

If you’re serious about tennis, you know that every little detail counts. From your grip to your footwork, everything plays a role in how you perform on the court. But one often overlooked factor is the condition and quality of your racket strings. That’s where professional tennis stringing comes in. Getting your racket strung by an expert can make a huge difference in your game, whether you’re just starting out or competing at a higher level. Let me walk you through why stri

If you’re looking to pick up a tennis racket or sharpen your skills, Brandon has some fantastic options for you. Whether you’re a kid just starting out, a teen aiming to compete, or an adult wanting to stay active and have fun, there’s a tennis program that fits your needs. I’ve spent some time exploring the best places and programs around, and I’m excited to share what I found. Let’s dive into the world of Brandon tennis activities and see what makes this area a great spot f

1990 Kalamazoo champion Eric Dobsha joins Sukhwa Young and Jeff Zinn to prepare top junior tennis players for the USTA Boys’ National Championships.

One of the first things I ask any parent who is criticizing or questioning their child’s play or behavior is simple: Do you play? That answer tells me a lot. If they say yes, it’s much easier for them to understand how difficult the game really is. Things that look simple are not easy to execute, and pressure has a way of making anyone do things that don’t reflect their true ability. If they say no, then the conversation shifts. Now it becomes about helping them understand th

If you spend enough time around youth sports, you start to hear a lot of the same phrases: “Come on, try harder.”“Focus.”“Move your feet.” Most of the time these comments come from a good place. Coaches and parents want young athletes to improve. They want effort, attention, and engagement. But when working with younger athletes, there’s an important principle that often gets overlooked: Motivation is much easier to create through facilitation than through dictation. In many

For many adults, staying active is just as much about social connection as physical fitness. Tennis creates natural opportunities to meet people, build relationships, and feel part of something bigger. Here are 10 ways adult tennis strengthens community and connection . 1. Group Classes Create Shared Experiences Learning together helps break down barriers and build camaraderie. 2. Friendly Competition Encourages Interaction Matches create conversation, encouragement, and mutu

Staying active as an adult doesn’t need to be repetitive or isolating. Tennis offers a unique combination of physical, mental, and social benefits that make it one of the most effective lifelong sports. And did you know Tennis is the worlds HEALTHIEST Sport?! Here are 10 health benefits of playing tennis as an adult . 1. Improves Cardiovascular Health Tennis naturally raises heart rate through short bursts of movement, helping improve endurance and heart health. 2. Builds Fun

Confidence doesn’t come from winning alone — it comes from learning, effort, and consistent positive experiences. Sports play a powerful role in helping kids develop independence and self-belief. Here are 10 ways sports help kids grow both on and off the field . 1. Learning New Skills Mastering new movements and techniques gives kids a sense of accomplishment. 2. Facing Challenges in a Safe Environment Sports allow kids to experience setbacks while learning how to respond con

Tennis is one of the few sports that can grow with a child from early childhood through adulthood. Whether your child is just starting out or already enjoys organized activities, tennis offers benefits that extend far beyond the court. Here are 10 key benefits of tennis for kids at every age . 1. Builds Strong Fundamental Movement Tennis helps children develop balance, coordination, agility, and body awareness — skills that support all sports and physical activities. 2. Encou

Not all tennis programs are created equal. Asking the right questions upfront can make a big difference in your child’s experience and development. Here are 10 important questions parents should consider before enrolling. 1. Is the program age-appropriate? Scaled courts and balls matter more than people realize. 2. Are fundamentals taught properly? Look for focus on grips, footwork, and swing mechanics. 3. How are players grouped? Skill-based placement is better than age-onl

Tennis is one of the few sports that truly grows with you — whether you’re starting at age 5 or picking up a racquet later in life. Here’s why tennis continues to be one of the most valuable lifelong activities. 1. Builds Coordination and Athleticism Footwork, balance, and hand-eye coordination improve naturally. 2. Encourages Problem-Solving Every rally is a decision — tennis develops cognitive skills on the court. 3. Supports Mental Toughness Players learn resilience, focus

Welcome to the Eric Dobsha Tennis (EDT) blog — a space created to help players, parents, and tennis enthusiasts better understand the game, the development process, and the many pathways tennis can offer. At EDT, we believe tennis should be accessible, educational, and enjoyable at every stage. Whether your child is picking up a racquet for the first time, you’re an adult looking to get back into the game, or your family is exploring long-term development opportunities, this