Dear Students,
 
Effective immediately, there is one phrase that is now completely forbidden at the Samson Dubina Table Tennis Academy.  This phrase has been used way too often and I’m just sick of hearing it.  Here is the phrase…
  “I just need to practice more.”
 
Let me explain…
 
At the beginning of a private lesson, I typically discuss with my student about his/her recent training during the last several days.  We will then plan to work on several areas throughout the 1-2 hour session.  Throughout session, I will typically give 5-10 pieces of advice for each area that we work on.  On water breaks, the student often takes notes.  At the end of the 1-2 hour session, I recap on the lesson and ask the student what he will be focusing on during the next few days to improve.  I often hear the forbidden phrase.  When they say the forbidden phrase, it often means that they won't even be thinking about applying their new knowledge.  Instead of saying the forbidden phrase, I would MUCH prefer to hear something like this:
 
“Coach Samson, I plan to increase my practice to 10-12 hours this week while focusing on _____,   _____, and _______ for my backhand loop; while focusing on _____, ______,  and ______ for my footwork; and while focusing on ______,  ______, and _____ for my serve return.  Once I make these improvements, I am confident that I can get to the next level.”
 
Application is totally the key!
Coach Samson