In this episode of the Great Base Tennis Podcast, Steve Smith is joined by Dave Anderson, Andy Fitzell, and Tim Ross for a wide-ranging discussion centered on doubles development and the 2025 US Open. The team reflects on the standout performance of Robert Cash and James Trotter Tracy, a former Ohio State duo, analyzing how their college training, chemistry, and aggressive net play translated to the tour level.

The conversation expands into the broader state of doubles, highlighting common gaps in how the game is taught and why many juniors lack the foundational skills to succeed in two-on-two play. From tactics to training priorities, podcast 266 also touches on the challenges of player travel, the importance of intentional practice, and how doubles can be used as a powerful developmental tool when taught properly.

A must-listen for coaches, parents, and players who want to better understand what makes great doubles and how to build it.

In this episode of the Great Base Tennis Podcast, Steve Smith and Dave Anderson explore lessons from the 2025 US Open, breaking down key storylines from Carlos Alcaraz’s win over Jannik Sinner to Amanda Anisimova’s stunning turnaround. They reflect on the leadership journey of figures like Stacey Allaster, and the legacy of tennis education programs across the U.S.

The conversation expands to include doubles development, court surfaces, the evolution of coaching, and what legends like Connors, Federer, and Djokovic reveal about the modern game. With firsthand observations from on-site practice sessions and reflections on technique, mindset, and media culture, this episode offers valuable insight for coaches, players, and parents committed to long-term development in tennis.

In this episode of the GreatBase Tennis Podcast, Steve Smith is joined by returning guest Dave Anderson and visiting coach Kervin Ramos. Together, the trio unpacks key storylines from the 2025 US Open — including matches involving Carlos Alcaraz, Frances Tiafoe, Coco Gauff, Alexander Bublik, and Taylor Fritz — while weaving in lessons for players, parents, and coaches at all levels.

Beyond match results, the conversation dives into the mental game, player habits, and the gap between athleticism and discipline. The hosts reflect on the culture of American tennis, the value of fundamental skills like proper court positioning and swing technique, and how today's environment often celebrates flash over foundation.

If you’re a coach looking to sharpen your eye, a parent wondering how to support your child’s tennis journey, or a player trying to build a game that lasts — this one’s for you.

Steve Smith and Dave Anderson sit down to tackle issues shaping today’s tennis, from the growing trend of withdrawals at tournaments like Kalamazoo to the impact of DNFs in college play. They share candid stories—from Connor Smith’s days at Ohio State to the traditions of junior tennis—to underline why competing fully matters more than ever. The conversation highlights how playing matches, regardless of the outcome, builds resilience and experience that no shortcut can replace.

The discussion then shifts to creative scoring, situational drills, and charting as essential tools for player development. From handicapped scoring systems that level competition to drills that demand awareness under pressure, the coaches offer dozens of ideas to make practices purposeful and fun. They also touch on broader topics like adult beginners, the need for a “master plan” in coaching education, and how tennis can compete with sports like pickleball by emphasizing fundamentals. Packed with humor, history, and practical takeaways, episode 263 is a roadmap for players, parents, and coaches striving to improve.

Steve Smith hosts a wide-ranging conversation with Ilya Semyonov, Andy Fitzell, and Dave Anderson, diving into common cures for problems in tennis. The discussion kicks off with mixed doubles and its controversial format changes, before branching into broader reflections on the state of the sport. From professional events and scheduling decisions to the lessons coaches can draw from doubles specialists, podcast 262 emphasizes how tennis needs both innovation and tradition to thrive.

The coaches then shift to core player-development issues—covering lost arts like the underspin backhand, net play, and approach shots, as well as technical pitfalls such as high tosses, wristy forehands, and oversized backswings. Through humor, anecdotes, and references to coaching pioneers like Vic Braden, they share practical solutions rooted in fundamentals, biomechanics, and player psychology. Whether you’re a coach, parent, or competitor, this episode offers diagnostic tools and timeless insights to address common flaws and accelerate improvement.

Steve Smith, Costas Alevizopoulos, Dave Anderson, and Andy Fitzell join forces to share coaching wisdom drawn from decades of experience. Together, they explore the systems, habits, and mindsets that form the foundation of great player development. The 261st podcast conversation blends humor, storytelling, and practical guidance, offering value to players, parents, and coaches at every stage.

They also highlight the role of mentorship, community, and adaptability in a player’s journey, showing how clear communication and structured training accelerate progress. Drawing from personal anecdotes and timeless coaching principles, the hosts provide a roadmap for building better players—both in skill and character. Whether your focus is competition, coaching, or lifelong learning, this episode delivers lessons that resonate beyond the court.

Celebrating five years, the GreatBase Tennis Podcast brings together Steve Smith, Costas Alevizopoulos, and Dave Anderson for stories from the Kalamazoo Nationals, colorful memories of coach T.J. Tisdale, and reflections on building strong player programs. Anecdotes from decades of coaching are blended with insights on training habits, competitive mindsets, and the importance of creating ambassadors within a tennis community.

A central theme of episode 260 is documenting development through video and charting—whether analyzing strokes, reviewing match play, or tracking push-up form. The hosts outline practical systems to measure errors, strategy, and self-management, while drawing on lessons from Vic Braden and other mentors. The result is a lively mix of humor, history, and actionable advice for players, parents, and coaches.

Perhaps the most talked about program in US tennis is the USTA's player development program. During the episode at hand, number 259, Steve Smith and Dave Anderson discuss the popular topic and the challenge of improving tennis in America.

Points from previous podcasts are repeated and reinforced. Perhaps no people in a position to make major changes will hear this podcast. On the other hand, anyone and everyone who listens will hear numerous ways to improve the growth and welfare of our game.