Private Tennis Lessons

5 Questions for Coach Ken

Summer is just around the corner and that means it’s time for tennis. Samena is thrilled to welcome back Coach Ken Ndean to the team as our 2021 Tennis Director. Ken has been coaching tennis for over 25 years and brings a wealth of knowledge, insight, and passion for the game to the Samena community.

You are obviously passionate about tennis. How did that passion begin?

My first interest in tennis started when I was 5 years old. I enjoyed playing with tennis balls as a child because I loved the color and the bounce. Then, I officially became a ball boy, picking up tennis balls for seniors and highly ranked players in London.

I first started playing tennis when one of the top players in London gave me his old tennis racquet for practice.

My true passion for tennis began the first time I hit the ball over the net, with perfect ease and control, using a simple technique. That’s when I then fell in love with tennis and knew this was a game I wanted to master.

As a Junior Tennis Champion, you must have some tips for success. What are three tips you would give to young players today?

My top advice for kids is always—have fun! Tennis is a game that can be enjoyed by all. It’s a great way to exercise and build a healthy lifestyle for everyone in the family.  It is also a terrific sport for athletes at all levels as it builds coordination, endurance, and discipline.

Like anything in life, if you want to get better you must practice, practice, practice. Tennis is even more fun when you learn techniques that allow you to control the ball when playing with others.

Always listen to your parents and remember we can all be Winners. You can achieve that, by simply doing your best and working to get better every day.

In your 25 years coaching players of all levels, what are some common traits you have seen that have helped your players succeed?

Developing focus and mental toughness is a key success factor, in tennis and in life. Players who can focus on “being in the moment” or “mindfulness” are able to do their best, regardless of condition.

Pay attention and play to your strength. When playing tennis, pay attention to the ‘Speed and Pattern of Play’, this includes ball speed and playing speed between points and changeovers. If a certain serve technique or stroke works like a charm for you, use it often on game points. If your opponent prefers a quick pace of play, you can learn to slow it down.

Being your best means being willing to invest in yourself to develop or improve key skills. In tennis, the most successful players have ball control, powerful serves, and consistent forehand and backhand technique.

We already know you’re our tennis pro. But what is one thing that most people don’t know about you that they might find interesting?

The name that most people call me, in addition to “Coach Ken” is actually, “Mr. Computer”.  I have a Master’s Degree in Computer Science and Cyber Security and I am the President and CEO of my own computer and technology company, called Mr. Computer Technology [dot] com which has served individuals and companies for over 25 years.

When you are not on a tennis court, where would we be likely to find you?  

I spend most of my time in front of my computer solving problems for clients.  Tennis is my personal passion and Computers and Technology are my professional passions.

Contact Coach Ken Ndean for more information & scheduling