When mapping out a periodization plan, parent-coaches need to keep in mind there are six elements that play the most critical role in the player's training. Those elements are the six general performance components (GPC) that a player needs to develop in order to become a complete, well-rounded player. They are physical, technical, tactical, strategic, mental and environmental.
Each of the boxes in the graphic below links to either a video or list of videos featuring USPTA Master Professionals and coaches explaining in detail each of the GPCs and their 43 subcomponents. By clicking on the white boxes, you will see a list of all videos related to each component. The colored boxes each link to one video that best explains the subcomponent selected.
Each of these components applies to players of all levels, from Little Tennis to world-class players. It is essential to construct a clear and extensive periodization plan that places each of these six training elements in a logical, comprehensive progression based on the player's ability and mental and physical maturity.
As a player develops, each of these components should improve. The player and parent-coach need to know how they all relate and be able to develop them, keeping them in mind with respect to the periodization plan. Both short- and long-term periodization require making constant adjustments. For example, based on the results or behavior patterns a parent-coach might notice in a tournament or series of tournaments, the player's lesson or training program should be adjusted and rebalanced to emphasize the components that need more development.
For instance, a parent-coach may notice that his or her child is struggling with the forehand stroke during a tournament. Therefore, in the next lesson the parent-coach will implement (or suggest to the player's primary coach) a focus on developing a more technically sound forehand. This scenario may have the player balancing the components in the following manner:
- 60 percent technical
- 10 percent tactical
- 10 percent mental
- 10 percent physical
- 10 percent strategic
Once the player has made progress with the forehand and begins preparing for the next tournament, the short-term periodization plan might change the lessons to include the following balance:
- 40 percent tactical
- 30 percent strategic
- 15 percent mental
- 10 percent technical
- 5 percent physical
A parent-coach, no matter how involved in the player's training process, should be aware of the player's needs, know how to recognize which of the six components need more attention, and understand how they relate. Try to be sure each of these components is incorporated into the child's lessons and training programs.
