Do It Like the Pro's

by Aaron Katz

When watching the IRT pro's duke it out on tour it is important that you observe with a watchful eye and pick up on techniques that you can incorporate into your game. Most of us will never be able to hit a diving rekill ala Jason Mannino or hit a backhand at mock speed like Sudsy Monchik, but the pro's all possess certain fundamental skills that we can all learn from.

Pressure,Pressure, Pressure your Opponents Like Andy Roberts

Andy does not possess the greatest speed in the world so it is very important for him to dictate the tempo. Accordingly, Andy will look for any opportunity to get on the offensive. Cutting off lob serves, fly killing balls in center court, high percentage overheads, and deadly pinch shots when his feet are set are all trademarks of his arsenal. You can tell that Andy is always looking for a way to get on the offensive and never accepts the role of the counter puncher.

Grind it Out like Cliff Swain

Cliff possesses the most devastating drive serve of all time. But what is most impressive about Cliff is his will to win and the variety of ways in which he does so. Cliff, like all of us has off days. However, when he is off he refuses to go down, he battles and digs his way out of wholes with the understanding that there are many ways to skin a cat.

Stay Cool Like Mike Ray

Mike always looks like he could be chilling to some Bob Marley rasta rap. He is however as tough a competitor as the tour has seen. Mike has a unique ability to stay relaxed and not let the emotions of the match dictate his demeanor. As a result Mike is able to play very consistent ball and rarely make crucial mistake on the big points. By staying relaxed he is able to maintain a clarity of mind when it gets to crunch time.

So check out the IRT calendar and get to an event near you and DO IT LIKE THE PRO'S

Aaron currently works with the law firm of Hirsch & Westheimer in Houston and teaches racquetball camps with Chris Cole.

Home: Houston, Texas...Plays: Right Handed...1st Year on Tour:1987
Born: 12/24/63...Height:5'11"...Weight:180
Career Highlights: 1993 Las Vegas Finalist

After finishing law school, passing the Bar, and having shoulder surgery in 1994, Aaron Katz played the best racquetball of his career this past season. As the Tour's "Most Improved Player" Katz earned long overdue respect for his controlling gamestyle.

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