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| Greg hitting at Melbourne Park |
It
was a frustrating, yet relaxed off season summer in Melbourne for Greg.
Recuperating from the knee injury which recurred in his last match in Canberra,
Greg was unable to train at his maximum and did what exercise he could in the
gym and by swimming. He did a small amount of training on court, hitting every
few days when his leg felt good, and also played a few matches for Kooyong
Tennis Club in late November. But frustratingly he could not shake off his knee
problem and he was also being plagued by a recurring wrist injury. As a result
not nearly enough tennis was played and his proposed training block was
severely compromised.
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| Greg & Jake in the Wozniacki box |
Looking
for something to do during January, Greg was offered the opportunity to hit
with one of the top female players during the Australian Open, the No. 2
seed Caroline Wozniacki. Greg had known Caroline during Junior ITF days, and
was also known to Caroline’s father/coach Piotr, so it was a very relaxed
atmosphere in which they trained. Greg was also able to help with local
knowledge of left-handed players for Caro to hit with, and with court bookings,
the tennis centre, etc. Living close to Melbourne Park and the city was also
beneficial, as Greg could respond quickly to attend meeting or training
sessions. Greg was also able to enlist the help of good mate Jake Eames,
ex-player and coach, to also hit with Caro, which was excellent for two-on-one
hitting.
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| With the Grand Slam winner |
It
was an interesting two weeks for Greg and Jake, as they witnessed how a
potential Grand Slam winner prepared, learnt first hand of coaching tactics and
strategy, as well as match strategy and player support. They sat through some
pretty tense and close matches, always encouraging their player, especially
when Caro was 1-5, 15-40 down in the third set, in the early rounds, and then played amazing tennis
to progress through that match.
The
cherry on the top of course was being involved in the final and then see Caro
win her first Grand Slam title. Well done Caroline.
An
amazing two weeks for the team and a great experience for Greg. It also gave
Greg the opportunity to catch up with old tennis contacts at Melbourne Park and have some
excellent chats to some influential tennis people, which may help him in his
future.
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