If you're learning to play tennis—or trying to improve—one of the most effective ways to accelerate your progress is watching the game. Whether for children picking up a racket for the first time or adults refining their kills, seeing tennis played at a high level provides invaluable lessons.

For young players especially, watching professional or competitive tennis is more than just entertainment. It’s a source of inspiration, a masterclass in technique, and a window into the etiquette and culture of the sport. By observing top players in action, aspiring athletes can develop a deeper understanding of strategy, footwork, shot selection, and the mental fortitude required to compete.

Beyond skill-building, watching tennis fosters a sense of community. Tennis isn’t just an individual pursuit—it’s part of a global culture. Seeing players compete at all levels reinforces the idea that every match, whether at a local tournament or on a Grand Slam stage, is part of something much bigger.

Upcoming Opportunities to Watch and Learn

Two fantastic opportunities are just around the corner for fans and players to witness competitive tennis:

1. The Miami Open (March 16–30) – One of the biggest tournaments on the ATP and WTA calendars, the Miami Open will be broadcast on television and streaming platforms, offering a front-row seat to world-class tennis. Watch how the pros handle pressure, construct points, and adjust to different opponents.

2. USTA National Campus, Lake Nona – Right here in Central Florida, collegiate and competitive tournaments at the USTA National Campus provide a chance to see rising stars and elite players in action. Watching matches in person allows young players to feel the energy of competition, see the game’s etiquette firsthand, and even get inspired to compete themselves.

3. Delray Beach Open (February) – Each year, a small group of Tennis Galaxy community members, led by Founder and Director of Coaching Peter Fazekas, attend the Delray Beach Open. The Tennis Galaxy group usually attends the weekend of the Qualifying Matches and Legends Event, as that allows for more up-close, personal, and unique experiences, such as interaction with players on the tour and watching some of them warm up for a training session by playing futnet, or tennis soccer.

4. Across Central Florida, there are competitive tournaments held nearly every weekend. Find a list of events near you by searching the USTA Florida events page.

Take What You Watch onto the Court

·       The next time you tune in to a match, pay close attention to how players:

·       Move their feet and position themselves for each shot

·       Recover after a point and prepare for the next

·       Adapt their strategy based on their opponent’s style

·       Demonstrate sportsmanship, focus, and resilience

By incorporating these lessons into your own game, you’ll improve faster—and enjoy the sport even more. So grab your racket, tune in, and let the game inspire you!

Rackets up!

As cooler temperatures approach Apopka this week, it's important for Tennis Galaxy players to adjust their routines to maintain performance and safety on the court. Here are some tips to consider:

1.    Dress in Layers and a Hat

It may seem obvious, but it’s one of the most effective strategies for playing in cold weather: wear multiple thin layers so you can take off small amounts as you warm up. Start with a moisture-wicking base layer to keep sweat off your skin, add insulating layers for warmth, and top it off with a wind-resistant outer layer to block cold air. This setup allows you to shed layers as you warm up and put them back on during breaks or cooler periods. “If you have a large, warm sweatshirt on over a T-shirt, you will go from one extreme to the other once you remove the outer layer,” as tennis writer Scott Baker points out.

For example, observe how Coach Peter starts with a dry-fit shirt, long-sleeve tee, vest, and jacket to arrive warm initially, and then removes and re-adds layers as needed throughout his sessions.

Don’t forget about heat loss from your head, which can be significant in cold weather. Wearing a hat can help retain warmth and keep you comfortable during your match.

2.    Prioritize a Thorough Warm-Up

A proper warm-up is essential for injury prevention and peak performance, no matter the weather. However, in cold weather, warming up becomes even more critical as stiff muscles are more prone to injury. Coach Peter always includes a warm-up period at the start of classes, but it’s important to take personal responsibility and allow yourself extra time when temperatures drop. Begin with very light cardiovascular work to elevate your heart rate and loosen your muscles, then add dynamic stretches. Slowly increase the intensity of movements to fully prepare your body before doing any drills or playing points.

3.    Keep Your Hands Warm

Cold hands can make it harder to grip your racquet and control your shots. Use jackets or shirts with pockets to keep your hands warm during breaks. While gloves might not be ideal for play, they can be helpful during warm-ups or between games. And yes, you can carry those hand warmers in your pockets—don’t worry, we’ll only tease you a little. But hey, when you’re gripping your racket like a pro while everyone else fumbles, you’ll get the last laugh.

4.    Beat the Glare and Chill

Your eyes are not only affected by glare created by the lower angle of the sun during daytime winter play, but also by the cold air rushing against your eyes as you move. Wearing sunglasses—with clear lenses after sunset--can act as a barrier against the cold, keeping your vision clear and your eyes protected.

5.    Adjust to the Cold Bounce

In colder temperatures, tennis balls lose their bounce and move more slowly. Take time during your warm-up to observe how the ball behaves. Refine your timing and positioning accordingly. If you have a versatile skill set, you can adapt your strategy to the conditions—slices, for instance, can be especially effective in the cold.

6.    Stay Hydrated—Yes, Even When It’s Cold

Dehydration can sneak up on you in cold weather since you may not feel as thirsty as you would in the heat. Cold air also has a dehydrating effect. Make a habit of drinking water before, during, and after play. Consider bringing room-temperature water instead of ice-cold drinks to make hydration easier.

7.    Know the Class and Lesson Policies During Cold Weather

Your Tennis Galaxy coaches monitor the forecast to plan accordingly. For example, in Apopka this week, temperatures are expected to drop into the mid-30s°F during the mornings. Currently, all classes and lessons are scheduled to proceed.

• Class Delays or Cancellations: If we must delay or cancel a session, we will send a text to all registered participants. Please ensure your phone number is up to date in your Court Reserve profile.

• Makeup Classes or Credits: If a prepaid class is canceled due to weather, a makeup class will be scheduled. If no makeup is possible, a prorated credit will be issued to your Tennis Galaxy account at the end of the cycle.

• Weather Interruptions: If a class is interrupted mid-session:

• If less than halfway completed, a prorated credit will be issued.

• If more than halfway completed, no credit will be issued.

By incorporating these strategies and staying informed, you can continue to enjoy your time on the court regardless of the weather. Stay warm, play well, and see you on the court!

As the 2024 Summer Olympics draw to a close, they leave us with countless stories of perseverance, determination, and excellence. These qualities are not just for Olympians—they can inspire tennis players of all levels, including those facing the unique challenges of playing in Central Florida.

Master Focus Under Pressure

Olympic athletes excel at maintaining focus when the stakes are highest, a skill that helps tennis players navigate the highs and lows of a match. In Central Florida, tennis players face their own hurdles: relentless heat, sudden rain, and the draining humidity. These conditions can be tough, but they also offer an opportunity to build resilience.

At Tennis Galaxy, home of the Volt Method, we teach a feedback loop that emphasizes mental preparation (Think It), executing with intent (Do It), and reflecting on the outcome (Feel It) to either repeat or repair the execution. This approach aligns a player’s mindset and actions, improving performance and building mental strength.

Stay Cool to Perform at Your Best

Preparation is key to thriving in Central Florida’s heat. Before you step on the court, give yourself an advantage by following our tips for staying cool. From hydration strategies to smart gear choices, these tips are designed to help you manage the heat and keep your focus sharp, just like an Olympian.

Overcome Adversity and Strive for Excellence

Olympians often triumph over incredible odds, whether recovering from injuries or pushing through fierce competition. The relentless pursuit of excellence drives Olympians, and it’s a mindset that young tennis players can adopt as well. In Apopka, the challenging conditions serve as a training ground for developing discipline and endurance. Every practice session in the heat, every match played in difficult weather, is a step toward becoming a better player.

Draw Inspiration from Tennis Olympians

Tennis legends like Venus Williams and Novak Djokovic have drawn on their Olympic experiences to fuel their success. Central Florida players can do the same, letting the Olympic spirit motivate them to push through challenges and reach new heights.

Channel Your Olympic Spirit

The Olympic spirit is all about perseverance, focus, and striving for excellence—qualities that can help tennis players in Central Florida overcome the unique challenges they face. By embracing this mindset, using our tips for staying cool, and applying the Volt Method’s feedback loop, you can turn adversity into an advantage and take your game to the next level. The next time you step onto the court, let the determination of Olympic athletes and the structure of the Volt Method inspire you to achieve your personal best.

Hey there, Tennis Galaxy students and fellow athletes. Are you ready to conquer the summer heat while enjoying your favorite outdoor sports? We're here to share some important tips on temperature management that can make a huge difference in your comfort and even save lives. Let's dive in!

Prepare with Purpose: A little preparation goes a long way! Before hitting the court, make sure you're armed with the essentials. Carry plenty of water to stay hydrated throughout your practice or match.

Dress Smart: Opt for loose and light-colored clothing that allows your skin to breathe. Large hats and sunglasses provide extra protection from the scorching sun, keeping you cool and safeguarding your eyes from harmful rays.

Shield with Sunscreen: Don't forget to slather on liberal amounts of sunscreen on any exposed skin. This simple step helps prevent sunburns and protects your skin from the damaging effects of UV rays.

Ice, Ice, Baby: Keep yourself refreshed by utilizing ice packs or iced towels during breaks. Placing them on your neck, wrists, or forehead can offer instant relief from the heat.

Take Frequent Breaks: Listen to your body and give it the rest it needs. Take breaks more often than usual to cool down and recharge. Find a shady spot where you can relax and regain your energy.

Gradual Acclimation: If you're planning to increase your time spent outdoors, especially during the hottest part of the day, it's crucial to acclimate gradually. Slowly increase your exposure to the heat over a couple of weeks, allowing your body to adapt and adjust.

Remember, taking care of yourself and staying safe in the summer heat is just as important as honing your skills on the court. By implementing these temperature management skills, you can enhance your comfort and enjoy your tennis sessions to the fullest. Stay cool, stay hydrated, and stay in the game!

If you have any questions or need further advice on beating the heat, don't hesitate to reach out. We're here to support you every step of the way. Let's make this summer an amazing and safe one!

Despite record inflation across the country, the Tennis Galaxy leadership team has recommitted to making tennis accessible and affordable for those in Apopka and surrounding areas who want to learn the sport.

“Engaging in sports like tennis and having access to quality coaching can be life-changing for children and adults alike,” said Tennis Galaxy’s founder and Director of Coaching, Peter Fazekas. “We are committed to ensuring anyone who has the interest to learn, has the chance to fall in love with being on a tennis court.”

Beginner classes with Tennis Galaxy cost $75 for six weeks for youth players, and $80 for six weeks for adults.

Tennis Galaxy’s coaches, all of whom are trained and licensed as professional instructors and are USTA SafePlay approved, employ a unique approach — the Volt Method — to teach modern tennis to beginners. The method places the needs of the developing human being at the center of the instructional model.

“We teach modern tennis, starting from the ground up,” Fazekas said. “We don’t rush children or adults into skills they can’t possibly execute yet. We don’t just swat at a ball out here. We ensure they truly develop proper, modern technique. ”

The Volt Method uses progressions to build comfort with the racket, develop an understanding of ball spin, improve coordination and movement, develop basic technique, taking the time to do it right.

Tennis Galaxy, which offers community classes, private lessons, homeschool classes, tournaments and special events at the Northwest Recreation Complex on Jason Dwelley Parkway in Apopka, also offers a privately funded scholarship program for youth beginners whose families wouldn’t otherwise be able to afford the classes.

March 11, 2022 at 11:39 pm EST

By Nick Papantonis, WFTV.com

APOPKA, Fla. — For weeks, Yulia Gerbut dismissed the rumors swirling around the streets of Kiev and warnings flying out of Washington. Ukraine would not be invaded, she said. There was nothing to worry about.

“Everybody was like, they are just threat and they’re just showing their weapons and troops of soldiers at the border,” she said, under the assumption Russian leaders were attempting to strengthen their hand at the negotiating table.

Three weeks later, Gerbut was not recalling her thoughts to friends at her favorite café. She was standing next to a tennis court in Apopka, Florida, after fleeing Kiev with her sons when the bombings began.

Watch coverage: https://www.wftv.com/news/local/ukraine-refugees-settle-apopka-thanks-decades-old-connection/LCQ2VGTIBZGQXBO5HOFQSJKZCA/

MEDIA ADVISORY

Ukrainian Family Now in Apopka Receives Support from Local Tennis Community, Apopka Mayor

March 11, 2022 – Orlando, FL – The tennis community of Apopka has launched a fundraising campaign to support a family that recently arrived from Ukraine. Apopka Mayor Bryan Nelson will meet the family at the city’s tennis courts at 4:30 p.m. today.

The Gerbut family – mom Yulia and sons Maksym, 14, and Mykyta, 12 -- fled their beloved home country in late February, after the invasion by Russia, and are now living with a host family in Apopka.

Within days of their arrival in Central Florida, Yulia sought to create a sense of normalcy for her sons by enrolling them in school and engaging them in the kinds of programs they enjoyed in Ukraine. Maksym and Mykyta both are tennis players, so Yulia connected with Tennis Galaxy, which provides scholarships to those in need for its tennis programs in Apopka. The Gerbut sons started tennis classes this week and have been welcomed by other youth players into the Tennis Galaxy juniors’ program.

During tennis classes this afternoon, Apopka Mayor Bryan Nelson and Tennis Galaxy founder Peter Fazekas will meet with the family to offer ongoing support. Tennis Galaxy is launching a campaign to help pay for the family’s living expenses; donations can be made at www.galaxytennis.com.

Fox 35 Orlando

March 11, 2022

The Gerbut brothers are more than 5,000 miles from their native Ukraine, but they've found a piece of normalcy in Apopka through Tennis Galaxy. 

"I like sport. If I do sports, I just forget about everything," Nikita Gerbut said. 

Read more: https://www.fox35orlando.com/news/apopka-tennis-organization-help-ukrainian-brothers-adjust-to-new-life