Dr. Gary Chapman published “The Five Love Languages” in 1992. That book and several variations have been a relationship bestseller pretty much ever since. The original categorization of how couples relate to each other outlines five primary ways people express and receive love. Today I am adapting Chapman’s original work for tennis. These are the love languages of tennis.
Words of Affirmation is providing written and verbal support for the sport. This includes describing the positive attributes of tennis and encouraging others to engage in some way. All forms of promotion, marketing, and social media fall under this expression of love. This also includes wearing clothing that bears positive thoughts about tennis. Your words of affirmation for tennis could make a difference in the sport.
Tennis Acts of Service involves performing actions in support of the sport. This can include some forms of community outreach, like conducting free tennis discovery days. Volunteering in your local community tennis association or the USTA is an act of service not only to the organization but also to tennis. Captaining league teams and organizing tournaments are another great way to express support for the sport. The person who serves as a catalyst for arranging matches and drills for a group of friends is performing an expression of a person’s love of tennis.
Tennis Financial Support demonstrates the love of tennis by funding tennis programs that make a difference in the tennis ecosystem. Giving equipment to a public tennis center or public park program helps others experience the joys of the sport. Donations provided to non-profit advocacy programs help promote tennis in the community. Many tennis facilities were built using financial support from private donors. This is our time to pay it forward.
Tennis Fandom is taking an avid interest in competitive tennis matches. Buying tickets to professional tournaments directly supports that event by demonstrating local interest. Watching as many televised matches as possible drives up ratings which increases revenues for the sport. Public interest in tennis is also helpful for garnering support for tennis in municipal parks and recreation projects.
Playing Tennis is physically engaging with the sport. Whether casual play or competing at the highest echelons, stepping onto the court is an act of love that demonstrates the art of the possible for prospective players and fans. Playing tennis is the ultimate meaningful expression of love for the sport.
Most of the very best players in Senior Adult tennis exemplify each of these love languages of tennis. They are relentless promoters through acts of service, financial support, and word of mouth. They play and watch the sport every chance they get. The tennis ecosystem is all the better because of them.
Today I am closing with a challenge. Actively do something that falls under each category of the five love languages of tennis. It will make a difference.
Throughout 2023, I am exploring the 12 Habits of Highly Successful Tennis Players. A complete summary of all posts on that topic and what is coming up for the remainder of this year can be found on the 12 Habits of Highly Successful Tennis Players homepage.
