Bloomington High School North, Nikean, 2010, Page 197

Description:	The words bounce...hit...bounce...hit... runthrough sophomore Nathan Abbotts mind ashe keeps his eyes on the tennis ball.He focuses on these words the entire time he is onthe court.Not only does it help me keep track of the ball, butit also keeps my head in the game, Abbot said.Abbott isnt the only one who talks to himself to remain focused. Freshman Sam Wisen does the same.I usually just tell myself positive things, Wisensaid. I find that it keeps me from getting distractedand allows me to carefully think about each one ofmy moves.These techniques seemed to pay off in the endwhen Wisen was able to accomplish a successfulseason.Those who play doubles often have a better advantage during a game because they are on the courtwith another player. Junior Benton Huang reallyutilizes this benefit,During doubles I talk to Matt Coghlan, and wekeep each other in game and focused. When wemiss a shot, we think of what we did wrong sowe can fix it for next time, Huang said.Huang says it helps having someone else tomotivate you because then you can focus moreof your attention to winning the game.Although many players have broadened theirhorizons on focusing methods, there are a fewboys who still turn to music.I try not to take anything too seriously [before amatch], and dont mess around, usually just popin some headphones, junior Ray Leonard said.It keeps me relaxed.By Celine Langboys tennis 19?—A
Source:	http://cdm17129.contentdm.oclc.org/cdm/ref/collection/hs-bloomnorth/id/6419
Collection:	Bloomington High School North

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