Using Technology in Tennis Coaching

Technology is now part of almost every industry, and tennis is no different. From AI to video analysis and online scheduling, tech has become easier, faster, and more accessible. The question for coaches isn’t if we should use it, but how much.

When I was running my own coaching business, technology played a big role in both the coaching and the admin. Parents and players could book lessons online, payments were handled automatically, and I could manage everything from one platform.

Now, as part of a coaching team, I still rely on tech to make my sessions more efficient and engaging. On court, being able to quickly review a player’s technique on my phone or iPad is incredibly handy, though I only use it when it genuinely helps. One of my favourite tools remains Blazepods. They add energy, competition, and fun to sessions while improving reaction time, focus, and decision-making.

“The best technology in coaching doesn’t replace good coaching, it enhances it.”

The Tools I Use

My coaching life runs on Notion. It’s where I plan projects, track sessions, and organise my calendar all in one clean, minimalist space. It’s my digital notebook and second brain rolled into one.

For match tracking, I use IonCourt, which gives great tactical insights for players. And when I need to sketch out session plans or drills, Goodnotes on iPad replaces my whiteboard when I’m travelling or working at different venues.

For video analysis, I mostly use my phone or iPad camera. I’ve tried more advanced apps like OnForm, but found the cost outweighed the benefit. Free versions tend to be clunky or overcomplicated. Sometimes simplicity wins.

Wearables like smartwatches are useful, but I wouldn’t call them essential. I only used my old Apple Watch as a stopwatch and checking the time mid-session, but cheaper options do the same job. Apps like Swingvision benefit player more than coaches.

For communication, WhatsApp remains my main tool. I try to avoid endless group chats, but for parents, it’s still the simplest and most professional way to stay connected.

“Technology should make coaching simpler, not noisier.”

Planning and Delivery

Compared with old-fashioned paper notes, digital tools make planning easier to store, review, and refine. Tech doesn’t necessarily make sessions better, but it helps make them more consistent.

The challenge is balance. When I review video with players mid-session, it can eat into hitting time, so I often save short one-to-one reviews for the end, or after matches, so it complements the session rather than interrupts it.

The Benefits and the Drawbacks

The benefits are clear:

• Better structure and planning.

• Easy progress tracking.

• Players can actually see their improvements.

• More professional and efficient communication.

But there are challenges too. Cost, setup time, and occasional tech failures can be frustrating. When the connection drops or an app freezes mid-session, it kills momentum quickly.

Younger players tend to love the tech side of things, especially when they can see instant replays or use reaction lights. Adults are often more sceptical, until they watch themselves on video and realise how powerful that feedback is.

“Seeing yourself on screen can teach you more in ten seconds than a coach can say in ten minutes.”

Best Practices

How often should coaches use tech? There’s no fixed answer. As long as it benefits the player, it’s worth using.

For me, Notion has become a must-have, while Blazepods are more of a luxury. Every coach will have their own essentials.

If you’re not tech-savvy, start small. Use your phone camera to record a few rallies. Let your players watch them back. Most of the best tools now are free or intuitive.

What I’ve Learned

The biggest change in my coaching over the past decade has come from something simple, the evolution of smartphone cameras. Clear, slow-motion video has made analysis effortless.

Recently, I worked with an 11-year-old player struggling with her forehand. I filmed her hitting from the baseline, and within a few minutes, she could see where her racket path was breaking down. Fixing that rhythm became much easier once she understood it visually.

Recording match stats is equally eye-opening. You can watch a game live and think you’ve seen the full picture, but reviewing the data later always reveals something new.

“Data doesn’t replace intuition. it sharpens it.”

Takeaways

Is technology essential in modern tennis coaching?

Absolutely. As long as it doesn’t overwhelm the player or take away from the human side of coaching. Used well, it helps players improve faster, coaches stay organised, and lessons feel more professional.

My advice: start simple. Use tools that make sense for you and your players. Keep it affordable, fun, and functional.

“Use tech to enhance connection, not replace it.”