Playing into the Sunset: Part 1: Ready Set, Go Slow

[johnyandell]

Let's discuss Rod Heckelman's article, "Playing into the Sunset: Part 1: Ready Set, Go Slow"

[chuckkoton]

I've got the slow part down. But what if world international travel versus elite guys with trophies is way over my head?

[RodHeckelman]

The journey vs results

It may sound cliché, but much of what makes senior tennis more enjoyable is the process we take on to optimize our performance. Nobody is going to make a living out of playing senior tennis, but they can sure live a lot better by being involved. With that in mind, the wins and losses are less relevant and the focus on change, development and the process creates a new mentality that is very rewarding, a reward that may not provide a trophy, but can make you feel better at the end of the day. Why not enjoy your game and enjoy traveling at the same time...I've played many tournaments overseas and can tell you that most of the events that are level 4 and 5, are similar to club level play...on top of that you will be able to enjoy making new friends who can familiarize you with that part of the world...

[stotty]

What a lovely article...especially for those over 45!

I've played at the same club for over forty years. It's funny how things pan out. Some of the club's top players of thirty years ago eventually stopped playing as regularly, put on weight, and slowed up rather a lot. Much lesser players of the same age/era continued to play, stay fit, and incrementally get better over years. Next thing you know those lesser players are beating those players once rated much better than themselves...how?...because they stuck at it...because they stayed in great shape...eventually they got results against really good players who had got fat, slow and simply plummeted.

If you want to be a great veteran player the key thing is to "stay in the best shape you can".

Many of the veterans at my club have a great time. They play both nationally and abroad. Recently our top four veterans reached a final of a competition that was played in Switzerland. There was no money involved but their expenses were paid and they had a wonderful time. Sadly they lost heavily...