Harry Buttifant

HARRY Buttifant
COACH

Why do you love coaching?

I love coaching because it is so rewarding to see people improve and become a better version of themselves, and I also enjoy connecting and meeting people of all different ages and abilities.

Why do you love playing tennis?

I love playing tennis because it’s a sport where anyone can play, whatever the age or level. I also love that in tennis there is no hiding, you have to win the match. You can’t rely on a clock to count down the seconds. You must go out there and win it.

Your favourite tennis player and why?

My favourite tennis player of all time is Rafael Nadal. There are so many traits of his that I love - his positive attitude on court, his intensity and high energy he brings to every match (which I try to reflect in my coaching), his kind nature, and lastly (the best of all his traits) is his ‘never say die’ attitude; his ability to fight till the death in every match he ever plays, is something truly extraordinary.

Your favourite shot to coach and why?

My favourite shot to coach is definitely the serve. It’s a shot which can seem super tricky and have so many little complications surrounding it. But I find once you simplify it down, you can see so much improvement which leads to more confidence in my students.

Your favourite shot to play and why?

My favourite shot to play is definitely my forehand, as it is my weapon. I love dictating the point with it and it feels amazing off the racquet when hitting cleanly.