Carmel, IN / Chicago, IL
In the world of tennis, success hinges on more than just a strong backhand or a powerful serve. It’s what happens before the racket even meets the ball that often determines the outcome of a match. According to veteran tennis professional and coach Jeff Rothbard, that magic lies in something he calls positive footwork: a principle that doesn’t stop at the baseline.
“Positive footwork is really about preparation and purpose,” says Rothbard. “It’s the way you approach the ball but also the way you approach your day, your career, and your challenges.”
With decades of experience on and off the court, Rothbard has cultivated a coaching philosophy that connects the mechanics of movement with the mindset of momentum. It’s a philosophy built from a lifetime of tennis, and from over 30 years as a successful entrepreneur, leader, and mentor.
What Is Positive Footwork?
In tennis, footwork isn’t just about getting to the ball; it’s about getting there early, being ready, and hitting from a position of strength. Rothbard defines positive footwork as “moving with intention,” emphasizing anticipation, quick adjustment, and purposeful movement.
“It’s the difference between reacting and preparing,” he explains. “You’re chasing the ball with a plan.”
That same principle, Rothbard says, translates beautifully to life. In both arenas, success comes down to:
- Showing up with intention
- Staying light and balanced, even under pressure
- Adjusting quickly to the unexpected
- Taking proactive steps toward your goals
Whether you’re trying to return a serve or rebuild after a setback, the lesson is the same: don’t drift, don’t freeze: move forward with purpose.
Coaching That Goes Beyond Tennis
Based in both Carmel, Indiana, and Chicago, IL, Jeff Rothbard, widely known as “Coach Jeff” works with players of all ages and skill levels. From first-time kids gripping a racket to high-level junior competitors, Rothbard’s focus is always on helping individuals grow as athletes, and as individuals.
His clinics and private lessons emphasize:
- Mental toughness and emotional control
- Purposeful, efficient movement
- Growth through understanding it is OK to make a mistake (“Next Time” moments)
- Consistent effort and resilience
- Technical skills and stroke production and more.
“Footwork is a metaphor for how you handle anything,” says Rothbard. “If you’re always off balance, always chasing, you’re going to get burned out. But if you’re moving with clarity and control, you can adapt. You can stay in the game.”
From the Boardroom to the Baseline
Before turning to full-time coaching, Rothbard led a distinguished business career as founder and president of SilverCreek Properties. Over three decades, he built the company into a major commercial real estate operation spanning 18 states and more than 60 properties. After selling the company in 2006, he shifted his focus to property investment, consistently applying the same principles of discipline, vision, and integrity that now guide his work on the court.
That dual experience of business and sport gives Rothbard a unique perspective. He understands competition, strategy, and pressure from every angle. And more importantly, he knows how to teach people to navigate it with confidence.
Building Champions On and Off the Court
Ask any of Rothbard’s students what they gain from training with him, and you’ll hear more than just improved technique. They talk about confidence. Grit. Focus. Character and understanding how to truly play and improve at the game of tennis and life.
“He teaches you how to handle frustration, how to regroup, and how to take responsibility,” says one student. “It’s winning points while growing stronger.”
That’s exactly the environment Rothbard strives to create. One where athletes learn how to think under pressure, keep their balance, and keep moving forward; on the court and in life.
“In tennis, every point is a new opportunity,” Rothbard says. “You don’t dwell. You reset, refocus, and take the next step. That’s what positive footwork means.”
A Simple Idea, A Powerful Impact
In a time when young athletes often face overwhelming pressure to perform, Rothbard’s emphasis on mindset, balance, and progress over perfection is refreshing and vital. He challenges players to reframe how they approach failure and to see every missed shot as a moment to learn, not a reason to spiral.
“‘Next time’ is one of the most powerful things you can say,” he explains. “It turns a mistake into momentum. That’s positive footwork in action.”
Looking Ahead
Today, Rothbard’s mission is clear: use the court as a classroom to develop great players, and great people. Through his thoughtful way teaching, he continues to shape the next generation of resilient, thoughtful, and strategic athletes, one purposeful step at a time.
Whether you’re a beginner just learning how to swing or a seasoned competitor trying to refine your edge, Coach Jeff’s approach offers more than drills and strategy. It offers a life lesson in movement, mindset, resilience, motivation and “Positive Footwork”.
So, can positive footwork really change your game and your life?
Rothbard answers with a grin: “Step on the court with me, and let’s find out.”
About Jeff Rothbard
Jeff Rothbard, affectionately known as “Coach Jeff,” is a passionate and caring tennis professional who brings decades of leadership, strategy, and dedication to his work on the court. Based in Carmel, Indiana, and Chicago, IL, Jeff specializes in coaching players of all levels—from energetic beginners to advanced juniors and competitive adults. With a strong focus on mental resilience and technical fundamentals, his coaching is built around one core belief: great attitude and great effort lead to great results.
His teaching style blends purposeful movement, focused footwork, and a growth mindset. Players learn to trust the process, using methods like the “bounce-swing” rhythm and “Next Time” reflection to grow from mistakes and build confidence. Whether he’s running a high-energy clinic or guiding one-on-one lessons, Jeff cultivates an environment where athletes can thrive both on and off the court.
For more information, to schedule a session, or to learn about upcoming clinics, visit:
https://jeffrothbard.com
Or call: 317.721.3390
