Mountain View Sports & Racquet Club

I started playing tennis in the 70’s (fell in love with it right away) and had wood as my first racket. I was born in the Philippines and grow up in Manila. Tennis is more like a luxury game in the Philippines. We are poor; hence, I cannot afford to play on a tennis court or hire a trainer for that matter. So, I ended up playing against a wall. I cannot find any formal backboard where you can hit so, I hit against the wall of any building that was available. When I moved to the USA in the 90’s that’s when I started playing formal tennis. I joined a club, played singles in small leagues, and had a group of friends that played together or played at WTT, etc. But then my tennis never moves to a higher level that I want them to be. Partly because my family is growing, had two jobs at times, play sporadically (would play straight for one year then would stop playing for 2-3 years then play again). Some of my tennis buddies moved on their rankings and became solid players while I remained stagnant. Tennis was my passion. I worked with people with substance/gambling and mental health disorders. I worked for many years at San Diego County Psychiatric Hospital (our agency has contract with them) and it was quite a stressful job. But tennis helps me overcome all those burnout feelings. I am now 71 years old, semi-retired but I continue to play tennis at a higher level and am still working to improve my game. For many months now I have been training with Jesus Osuna (one of the pros at Mountain View Tennis Club) and it has been an incredibly positive experience. I am a self-taught tennis afficionado and training with Jesus has improved my game and confidence tremendously. My goal is to continue to play tennis, play in the league/tournaments up to the point where my body would say, “okay Edgar time for you stop.” Other than that, I will continue to play tennis! Written By: Edgar Capacio

Tennis legend Roger Federer has inspired millions not just with his skills but with his wisdom about the game and life. In a speech at Dartmouth, he shared valuable lessons that can transform how you approach tennis and personal challenges. Let’s explore three key takeaways from Federer’s advice and how you can apply them to your game. 1. Perfection Is Impossible "In tennis, perfection is impossible. Out of the 1,526 matches I played, I won almost 80% of them. But guess what? I only won 54% of the points in those matches. Even the best players win just over half of their points." — Roger Federer What This Teaches Us: Accept Mistakes: No player is perfect. Mistakes are part of the game. Accepting them can help you stay focused and avoid discouragement. Prioritize Consistency: Top players win only a little over half of their points. The key is playing consistently well rather than striving to win every single point. How to Apply It: When a tough point doesn’t go your way, take a deep breath and let it go. Focus on staying steady throughout the match rather than chasing perfection. 2. Fitness and Focus Win the Long Matches "Everybody can play well the first two hours. You’re fit, you’re fast, you’re clear… and after two hours, your legs get wobbly, your mind starts wandering, and your discipline starts to fade." — Roger Federer What This Teaches Us: Fitness Matters: Matches often come down to who can keep playing when fatigue sets in. Physical fitness is critical. Mental Focus: When you’re tired, your focus can slip. The ability to stay mentally sharp gives you an edge. How to Apply It: Fuel Your Body: Proper nutrition and hydration in the days before a match can make a big difference. Opt for electrolytes without excessive sugar to maintain energy. Embrace the Challenge: Fatigue is inevitable, but it’s also an opportunity. Some of the most exciting points happen when both players are tired. Celebrate the effort and enjoy these moments. 3. Effortless Is a Myth “Effortless is a myth.” — Roger Federer What This Teaches Us: Hard Work Wins: Success doesn’t come without effort. Dedication and persistence are essential, especially when the path gets difficult. How to Apply It: In your tennis journey—whether in group classes, private lessons, or on your own—remember that you control your progress. Every bit of effort counts. Stay committed, keep learning, and trust that your hard work will pay off. Closing Thoughts Roger Federer’s insights go beyond tennis. They remind us to accept imperfections, stay consistent, push through challenges, and embrace effort. These principles apply not only on the court but in every area of life. Whether it’s improving your tennis game or facing personal challenges, remember: the journey is in your hands, and your effort will shape the outcome.

If you’re a tennis player looking to improve your game, you might not realize just how much your racket strings can impact your performance. Choosing the right strings is just as important as picking the right racket, and the type of strings you use can affect everything from power to control—and even the health of your arm. With so many options out there, it can feel overwhelming, but we’re here to help you narrow down the best type of string for your needs. Why Tennis Strings Matter Tennis strings play a huge role in how you perform on the court. The right strings can give you more control, power, or spin, depending on your playing style. They can also protect your arm from strain and injury. By choosing strings that suit both your playing style and your body’s needs, you’ll get more out of your game and avoid potential issues like tennis elbow. Here’s what’s in it for you: selecting the right string type will boost your game, keep you comfortable, and help you play pain-free. The Main Types of Tennis Strings When it comes to tennis strings, there are five main categories to consider. Each one has its pros and cons, and the best choice depends on what’s most important to you—whether that’s control, power, durability, or comfort. Natural Gut Natural gut strings are known for their superior feel, power, and comfort. They provide excellent playability, but they come with a higher price tag and aren’t as durable as synthetic options. If you prioritize comfort and don’t mind the extra cost, natural gut is a great choice. Synthetic Gut Made from nylon, synthetic gut strings are a more affordable option that still provides a good balance of durability, playability, and comfort. They don’t offer the same feel as natural gut, but they’re a solid all-around choice for players who want good performance without breaking the bank. Polyester (Poly) Polyester strings are known for their durability and control. They’re ideal for players with powerful, fast swings who want to generate lots of spin. However, poly strings can be harsh on the arm, so they’re best suited for advanced players or those who don’t have arm or shoulder issues. Multifilament Multifilament strings are made from many fibers woven together, designed to mimic the feel of natural gut. They provide excellent power, comfort, and feel, making them a great option for players with sensitive arms. The downside is that they aren’t as durable as polyester strings. Hybrid Hybrid strings combine two different types of strings, usually polyester for durability and synthetic or natural gut for comfort and feel. This setup offers a mix of durability and playability, allowing players to get the best of both worlds. If you want the control of polyester without sacrificing comfort, a hybrid setup could be right for you. Why This Information Is Valuable for You Choosing the right strings can make a huge difference in your game. The correct string type not only affects your performance on the court but also helps prevent arm injuries. For players who hit hard and want more control, polyester or hybrid strings might be the best fit. On the other hand, if comfort and power are your top priorities, natural gut or multifilament strings may be the better option. Finding the right balance between cost, durability, and comfort will ensure you enjoy the game more and stay injury-free. Need Help Choosing Strings? Visit Our Pro Shop At Mountain View Pro Shop , we understand that choosing the right strings can be confusing. Our team has decades of experience and is here to help you find the perfect string setup based on your playing style, preferences, and arm health. Whether you’re looking for natural gut, polyester, or a hybrid setup, we’ve got all the options you need.

Whether you’re a tennis player with one racket or a parent managing multiple rackets for your junior player, finding the right tennis bag is essential for both convenience and performance. With various sizes and styles available, it’s easy to get overwhelmed when selecting the right bag. Don’t worry—we’re here to guide you through the options and help you choose the best tennis bag for your needs. Why the Right Tennis Bag Matters A good tennis bag isn’t just about carrying your gear—it’s about making sure everything fits, is easy to find, and is ready when you need it. The right size and style can help you bring all the essentials to the court without feeling like you’re carrying too much or too little. What to Consider Before Choosing Your Bag Before selecting a tennis bag, ask yourself these key questions: How Much Gear Do You Bring? Do you just carry your rackets, or do you also bring extra clothes, shoes, towels, or training accessories like a jump rope? Knowing what you consistently bring to the court will help you choose the right size bag. How Many Rackets Do You Carry? The more rackets you bring, the larger your bag should be. For players with just one or two rackets, a smaller bag will suffice. But if you’re carrying three or more, you’ll want a bag with more space. What Type of Play Are You Doing? Are you playing in tournaments, leagues, or just taking lessons? Tournament players often need more space for gear, clothes, and accessories, while casual players may only need to carry the basics. Bag Sizes and Options Now that you know what to consider, let’s break down the main tennis bag options: Backpack or Tote If you’re looking for something compact and versatile, a tennis backpack or tote is a great option. These bags usually hold two rackets and offer some space for extras like a towel or a water bottle. Perfect for players who only need the essentials or for casual lessons at the club. 3-Racket Bag A 3-racket bag is ideal for club players who only need to carry their rackets to the courts and live close by. This is a great minimalist option for players who don’t need much beyond their racket and a small amount of storage. 6-Racket Bag If you carry more than two rackets or want extra space for clothes, shoes, or other gear, a 6-racket bag is a solid choice. It provides more room for all your equipment, making it ideal for players who like to bring everything they need to the court. 9 or 12-Racket Bag For competitive players, juniors, or those who play tournaments and need a lot of gear, a 9 or 12-racket bag is the way to go. These bags often have separate compartments for rackets, clothes, and accessories, keeping everything organized. If you have more than four rackets and want to avoid mixing dirty clothes with your equipment, this is the best option for you. Don’t Forget Style Many players also consider the look and feel of their tennis bag. Whether you prefer to match your racket brand, favorite color, or simply want a bag that stands out, there are plenty of stylish options available. Your bag can be an extension of your tennis personality, so don’t be afraid to get creative! Why This Information Matters for You Choosing the right tennis bag is more than just a purchase—it’s an investment in your game. With the right bag, you’ll always have your gear organized, accessible, and ready to go, no matter where you’re playing. Plus, having the right size means you won’t spend extra money on a bag that’s too big or struggle with one that’s too small for your needs. Need Help Deciding? Visit Our Pro Shop At the end of the day, the right tennis bag depends on your needs and preferences. If you’re still unsure which one is best for you, our team at Mountain View Pro Shop is happy to help. With decades of experience in the tennis world, we can guide you through the different bag sizes and styles to find the perfect fit. Whether you need a compact bag for lessons or a large bag for tournament play, we’ve got you covered.

If you’ve found the tennis racket you love but haven’t thought about the grip size, you might be missing out on one of the most important aspects of your game. For tennis players of all levels, grip size can impact not only comfort but also your overall performance and enjoyment on the court. Whether you’re a seasoned player or new to the sport, understanding racket grip sizes can make a big difference in how you play. Why Grip Size Matters Getting the right grip size isn’t just about comfort; it can directly affect your ability to hit the ball with power and control. If the grip is too small, you might over-grip the racket, leading to tension in your hand and wrist, which can even cause injuries like tennis elbow. If the grip is too large, your strokes can feel awkward and clunky, making it harder to play with precision. Here’s what’s in it for you: a correctly sized grip will improve your control, power, and make playing more enjoyable overall. How to Measure Your Grip Size If you’re unsure about your grip size, don’t worry—you’re not alone. Many tennis players don’t realize that rackets come with different grip sizes. Luckily, finding the right size is easy. Here’s how to do it: Measure Your Hand Use a ruler to measure from the base of your palm (the crease where your wrist meets your hand) to the tip of your ring finger. This measurement will help you determine your ideal grip size. For most adults, the size will be between 4 1/4" (size 2) and 4 3/8" (size 3). Women typically lean toward slightly smaller grips, while men may opt for slightly larger ones. Test the Fit Another quick way to check if the racket grip is the right size is to hold the racket with a continental grip , like you’re shaking hands with it or holding a hammer. You should be able to fit the index finger of your opposite hand in the space between your palm and fingers. If you can’t fit your finger, the grip is too small. If there’s too much space, the grip is too large. If You’re Between Sizes When in doubt, it’s better to go with the smaller grip. You can always add an overgrip to increase the thickness. Overgrips are easy to apply and offer additional comfort. At the End of the Day, It’s All About How It Feels in YOUR Hand Whenever possible, visit a pro shop and try out different grip sizes. A racket might look great on paper, but only by holding it will you know if it feels right in your hand. Standard Grip Sizes Here’s a quick reference chart for standard grip sizes in adult rackets: Grip Size Measurement 0 4" 1 4 1/8" 2 4 1/4" 3 4 3/8" 4 4 1/2" 5 5" Most players will fall between size 2 and 3, but if your hands are larger or smaller than average, be sure to adjust accordingly. Why This Knowledge Is Valuable for You Taking the time to get your grip size right can lead to better performance and more enjoyment on the court. You’ll find it easier to control your shots, reduce strain on your arm, and play with confidence. By understanding grip sizes, you’re setting yourself up for success with every match. Need Help Finding Your Grip Size? If you’re still unsure, don’t worry—our team at Mountain View Pro Shop  is here to help. With decades of experience in the tennis world, we’ve helped countless players find the right gear, including rackets with the perfect grip size. Stop by our shop, try out different options, and let us guide you to the best fit for your game.

If your son or daughter is a beginner or a competitive junior player, then choosing the right tennis racket is important to their development and enjoyment of the game. This guide will help you make an informed decision. Why Racket Size Matters Choosing the right racket size is important for your child's safety and how much they enjoy the game. A racket that’s the right size will help them swing easily, have fun, and lower the chance of injury. While it's important not to choose a racket that is too big and heavy, using one that’s too small can also slow down their progress by making it harder to hit the ball well. The goal is to find a racket that helps your child develop good skills while having a great time playing. Junior Racket Size Recommendations Here is a simple table to help you choose the right racket size based on your child’s age and height: Age Height Racquet Length 4 years or younger 40 inches or shorter 19 inches 4-5 years 40-44 inches 21 inches 6-8 years 45-49 inches 23 inches 9-10 years 50-55 inches 25 inches 10 or older 55 inches or taller 26 inches These sizes follow recommendations from the United States Tennis Association (USTA) and other experts. Most kids under 8 years old use 19, 21, and 23-inch rackets. For 9 to 10 year-olds, 23 and 25-inch rackets are the best choice. Kids over 10 who are moving to full-court tennis usually need a 26-inch racket. For comparison, adult rackets are usually 27-28 inches long. How to Test If a Racket Fits Here’s a simple test to check if a racket is the right size: Have your child stand straight and hold the racket by their side with the head pointing down. If the racket touches the floor lightly, it’s the right size. If it drags on the ground, it’s too big. If it doesn’t reach the floor, it’s too small. This test helps you choose a racket that fits their height and strength. Mountain View’s Pro Shop can help guide you to the right size and model for your child, offering a selection of junior rackets that fit their age and skill level. Transitioning to an Adult Racket There’s no exact rule for when a child should move to an adult-sized racket, but choosing the first adult racket carefully is important. Lighter rackets, like Wilson’s Ultra Light series, can help kids make the change more easily, giving them enough control and power without being too heavy. As your child grows, you may need to adjust their racket size to match their height, strength, and skill level. If your child is much taller or shorter than other kids their age, you might need to go up or down a racket size sooner.