In a significant move towards inclusivity in sports, a 10-week wheelchair tennis pilot program is scheduled to commence this December. This initiative aims to provide individuals with disabilities the opportunity to engage in sports, potentially uncovering future national athletes while enhancing participants’ quality of life. The SportCares Foundation is spearheading this project, with financial support…
In recent years, numerous athletes have openly discussed how mental health challenges have impacted their professional lives. For some, these issues result in temporary setbacks, while for others, they can prematurely end a promising career. A prominent example is cricketer Marcus Trescothick, whose battle with depression led to the conclusion of his international career. Researchers…
As pickleball’s popularity skyrockets, a growing number of tennis players, from amateurs to seasoned professionals, are venturing into this rapidly expanding sport. Despite their prowess on the tennis court, transitioning to pickleball presents unique challenges that require a thoughtful approach, dedicated practice, and strategic adjustments to master. Leigh Waters, a distinguished coach and the mother…
In recent years, veganism has gained in popularity and has transitioned from being merely a dietary choice to a full-on lifestyle that many adhere to, including elite athletes. This trend stands in contrast to the long-standing belief that high-performance sports cannot be fueled by plant-based diets. Now vegan athletes are becoming the image of how…
In a momentous achievement at the Paris Paralympics 2024, British wheelchair tennis stars Alfie Hewett and Gordon Reid finally secured the coveted Paralympic gold medal on the renowned Philippe-Chatrier court at Roland Garros. This victory not only marked a significant milestone in their careers but also etched their names in history as the first men’s…
In a significant move to bolster athlete protection, Lindsay Brandon has been appointed as the Women’s Tennis Association’s (WTA) inaugural director of safeguarding. With a background in representing athletes in doping cases, Brandon is now tasked with shielding players from predatory coaches and other potential threats within the realm of women’s professional tennis. “Safeguarding encompasses…
In a recent conversation with SJO Tennis Coach Kevin Martlage, we delved into his experiences and insights regarding the tennis program. Here are the highlights from our discussion. Program Development Coach Martlage reflected on the impressive growth of the tennis program over the past three years. He expressed deep appreciation for the unwavering support from…
Recent investigations into the effects of vegetarian diets on athletic performance have unveiled compelling insights that may shape the dietary habits of athletes. A systematic review published in a leading nutrition journal has explored the distinctions between vegetarian and omnivorous diets and their implications for sports performance. Understanding Vegetarian Diets High-profile athletes such as Saul…
In the dynamic world of tennis, a fascinating trend has emerged: older athletes are excelling, particularly in the niche of wheelchair tennis. While the spotlight often shines on young prodigies in able-bodied tennis, the true stalwarts of the sport are thriving in wheelchair tennis, which has been an integral part of every Grand Slam since…
BetterHelp, the leading online therapy platform, has unveiled an exciting partnership with tennis icons Venus Williams, Frances Tiafoe, and Taylor Fritz. This collaboration is set to offer up to $3 million in complimentary mental health therapy, underscoring the critical role of mental wellness and aiming to dismantle the stigma surrounding professional mental health support. Through…