Would a Tennis Ball Machine be a good investment for me?

Question

Hi, I have been playing tennis for about 5 years. I have played Varsity tennis for both years of my high school and have been in competitive tennis for all 5 of those years. I will be a Junior this year and plan to play for Number 1 on my school's varsity team. I also want to attend Stanford and play tennis for them. Anyways, I used to have an excellent personal coach who used to be a professional tennis player when I lived in Hawaii, but my family moved to Phoenix and I haven't gotten one since. I already know the fundamentals and advanced techniques of tennis, and I just need to master those techniques so I don't see much purpose in getting another private coach. (My coach in Hawaii was one of a kind). Anyways, so I am wondering if a ball machine would be a good investment for me. I cannot always rely to be able to practice playing with someone else during offseason. If this is a good investment, then which brand and model should I get? I have a strict budget of nothing over $1200. I would probably rather want something between $600-$1000. Thanks

Answer 1

Yes, tennis ball machine is great for practice.  But it won't give you experience like a real match with different style opponents.  Check out this site for ball machines -> http://tennis-ball-machine.com/ .  There are plenty of good ball machines in your budget range.  Good luck :)

Answer 2

A ball machine would work wonders for your tennis game, but you really have to come down to the simple question of is it necessary? it seems like you have the financial part of it down, but the part of tennis i enjoy is playing your friends and making new ones. i like practicing with another person and usually play with a couple kids almost everyday. a ball machine would be really tight though.