Sometimes, Technique Is Overrated

In junior tennis, we often hear a lot about technique. Coaches break down forehands, serves, and volleys with slow-motion analysis, and parents are quick to worry if their child’s grip, backswing, or follow-through isn’t “perfect.” While good technique is undeniably important, it’s time we say it out loud: sometimes, technique is overrated—especially in the early stages of development.

The Trap of Technical Obsession

It’s easy to fall into the trap of believing that better technique automatically means better tennis. But tennis is not gymnastics. Matches aren’t scored based on how pretty your strokes look. They’re decided by who wins the point. Some of the most effective junior players (and even pros) don’t have textbook strokes—but they know how to win. They compete hard, they problem-solve under pressure, and they’re mentally tough.

A technically “perfect” forehand means very little if a player can’t rally consistently, make good decisions, or adapt when the opponent changes tactics.

The Forgotten Fundamentals

Here’s what sometimes gets lost when all the focus is on technical training:

    •    Footwork – Often more important than stroke mechanics.

    •    Consistency – Winning juniors aren’t always hitting winners; they’re missing less.

    •    Competitiveness – Players who are hungry and gritty often outperform those with better form.

    •    Tactical Understanding – Knowing where and why to hit the ball makes a huge difference.

    •    Emotional Control – The ability to stay calm and focused in tight moments beats a perfect swing under stress.

Technique Is a Tool, Not the Goal

Think of technique as a vehicle. It helps get you where you want to go, but it’s not the destination. A young player might have an awkward backhand but still manage to return every ball deep and neutralize their opponent. Should we stop and fix their grip mid-match? Of course not.

There’s a time and place for technical refinement, but if we prioritize it too heavily at the expense of play, confidence, and enjoyment, we risk stalling a child’s growth.

Play First, Polish Later

Especially in early development (ages 5–12), kids need to play—a lot. Playing matches, experimenting, making mistakes, solving problems, and having fun. Technique should be gradually shaped within this context, not imposed in isolation.

In our program, we say: “Let the game teach the technique.” When kids are allowed to explore and problem-solve, they naturally begin to self-correct and develop strokes that work under real conditions.

Final Thoughts

We’re not saying technique doesn’t matter. It does. But it’s one piece of the puzzle. Let’s not idolize it to the point where we forget the bigger picture. At the end of the day, tennis is about playing the game—learning to compete, to adjust, to persist.

So next time you see a junior player with an unconventional forehand winning matches and loving the game, take a breath before rushing in with a technical correction.

Sometimes, technique is overrated. The game is not.