Sound Bytes

Good advice crosses domains. Listen to the words of sports psychologist Dr. Bob Rotella.

1) "Look at the target, look at the ball, and swing."

2) "The best swing thought is no swing thought." 

3) "Train and trust your swing." 

Psychology doesn't replace strong "mechanics." But nobody is good enough to recalibrate their swing or their free throw mechanics during a game. 

Invest the time to refine your mechanics on the practice court or in the driveway or wherever. Watching cellphone or other game video can confirm or refute your impression about mechanics. 

Watch the Elena Soukos (outside hitter) approach:

• ample runway, well behind the 10 foot line
• three step approach
• good backswing on the approach 
• high contact which avoids the block 

Watch this clip with playback speed at 0.50 to see the approach in slower motion.

Use your "mind's eye" to see a strong approach and then train to produce something similar with your technique.