The Blueprint to College Tennis: Lessons from AJ’s Journey

We’ve been fortunate to work with many talented young tennis players over the years, and one that stands out is AJ Deem. For the past three years, AJ has been part of our Tennis Fitness family.

His journey is a powerful reminder of what can happen when a player follows the right advice, stays consistent, and commits to doing the work. 

Nathan recently caught with AJ to discuss his tennis journey - you can check out their conversation in the video above. 

The Power of Mindset Over Raw Talent

When AJ first started with us, he had potential — no doubt about that — but what impressed us most wasn’t his talent, it was his mindset.

From day one, AJ was coachable, determined, and willing to do what many young players aren’t: listen, follow through, and stay disciplined. That’s what sets athletes like him apart.

Consistency, Structure, and Results

Over the last few years, AJ has worked closely with our team — attending online meetings, completing his strength and conditioning sessions, sticking to his recovery routines, and making sure he followed the specific tasks we set for him.

None of this was easy, and it required structure, self-discipline, and buy-in — all of which AJ brought in spades. His dedication recently paid off in a big way. AJ has secured a spot at The University of Utah — a Division 1 college — on a tennis scholarship. We couldn’t be prouder. (To watch video press play at top of page)

Proof That the Right System Works

AJ’s story proves what we’ve always believed: when players are supported with the right systems and guidance — and they stick to the plan — success follows.

Yes, talent matters, but mindset, structure, and discipline carry just as much weight.

Throughout his time with us, AJ has learned how to train for tennis, how to manage his body, how to prepare and recover, and how to approach matches with confidence. 

Avoiding the Common Pitfalls

He’s followed age-appropriate programs tailored to his development stage, rather than trying to copy what professional players do or falling into the trap of random training.

And that’s where a lot of young players miss out. They either train too much, train the wrong way, skip the fundamentals, or try to rush the process.

By the time they realise something needs to change, it’s often too late — injuries have set in, burnout creeps up, or confidence takes a hit. (To watch video press play at top of page)

Why We Built the Tennis Fitness Academy

That’s exactly why we created the Tennis Fitness Academy — a complete tennis training platform for players aged 8 to 18 years old.

It’s designed to give young athletes the tools they need to build strong bodies, smart routines, and solid tennis habits — while receiving expert support along the way.

Inside the Academy, players like AJ get:

• Access to proven strength, movement, and recovery programs
• Age-specific plans and testing protocols
• Weekly education and live coaching support
• Guidance around mindset, match prep, and injury prevention
• A clear roadmap for their tennis development

AJ didn’t just use the program — he lived it. He didn’t cut corners or make excuses. He was proactive, consistent, and honest in his approach. He showed up for himself, and that made all the difference.

The Result? A Division 1 Scholarship and a Confident Future

We recently sat down with AJ for an interview to reflect on his time training with us and how it helped shape his tennis and overall development.

He spoke about the impact of the Tennis Fitness Academy, the lessons he’s learned, and how this experience helped him take his game to a level that attracted a Division 1 offer.

The biggest takeaway? AJ made it happen because he followed the right plan — a plan built around his needs and development goals.

He didn’t wait until things weren’t working. He trusted the process early and committed to the work. To any young players or parents reading this — AJ’s journey is an example of what’s possible when you combine talent with the right training and the right attitude.

He’s not just heading to college as a better tennis player — he’s heading there as a stronger, more confident young man.

We’re proud of you, AJ. The hard work has paid off — and this is just the beginning.

Want to Follow in AJ’s Footsteps?

If you’re serious about building a future in tennis — whether that’s playing college tennis or simply becoming the best version of yourself — the Tennis Fitness Academy is where it starts.

Just like AJ, you'll get:
✅ Structured strength & conditioning programs
✅ Age-appropriate training & testing
✅ Weekly coaching, education & support
✅ Clear development pathways
✅ Guidance on mindset, match prep & injury prevention

Don’t leave your progress to chance. Build your tennis future the right way — with a plan that works.

👉 Join the Tennis Fitness Academy today and take the first step toward your own success story.