Agawam resident Paul Fein publishes instructional tennis guide

Aug. 10, 2021 | Lauren LeBel
llebel@thereminder.com

Agawam native Paul Fein recently published “Fein Points of Tennis.”
Reminder Publishing submitted photo

AGAWAM – Paul Fein, an Agawam resident since 1979, recently published his fourth book titled “The Fein Points of Tennis,” an instructional guide of the sport that’s fit for all ages and levels.

According to a press release, Fein’s book touches upon a variety of topics that aren’t often talked about. This includes “the “modern forehand,” the “strike zone,” grip firmness, the critical importance of balance, and “the geometry of tennis.” In addition, he mentions “underemphasized topics” such as the half volley, match momentum, playing in the wind, wrong-footing, and more.

Over a long period of time, Fein has been writing and accumulating his best articles that make up the majority of his book. Of the 80 to 90 articles that he’s written, he incorporates about 50. He said that some of the earliest articles included in this book date back to 2007 and the most recent articles were written over the last few months.

Throughout the book, Fein incorporates interviews with some of the world’s leading tennis coaches and teaching pros, including former Wimbledon champion Pat Cash and renowned teaching pro Rick Macci, who guided Serena and Venus Williams, Jennifer Capriati, and Sofia Kenin.

In addition, he includes Patrick Mouratoglou, Gene Mayer, Toni Nadal, David Macpherson, and Nick Bollettieri.

Prior to this book, Fein wrote “Tennis Confidential,” “Tennis Confidential II,” and “You Can Quote Me on That.” All of these books were ranked number one among tennis books on Amazon for more than six months.

“I wrote the first three books by myself. However, this [book] is tougher. The tactics I did by myself, but getting the best minds in the world, I had to do research, etc.,” said Fein.

Fein claimed that of the 500 or 600 instructional tennis books out there, this is the first one that incorporates questions and answers with professionals.

Fein said, “This book is for coaching, teaching, players, pros., etc.” No matter where someone may stand in the tennis world, he believes this book can assist them. “It’s a reference book – if someone needs help.”

The book is 192,000 words – 511 pages. Fein said there about 100 photos instilled within, allowing for everyone to “read at [their] own pace.”

Fein explained that tennis is an extremely technical sport. “There’s a psychological and physical side to it. It requires so much athleticism – more than any others.”

Touching upon his own tennis experiences, Fein began playing at age 11 in Longmeadow. Prior to this, he played baseball. Fein claimed that it wasn’t until the summer before college that he realized he had “true potential.”

At the Williston Northampton School, Fein played number four singles and number two doubles on the varsity tennis team. Following this, he played number five singles and number two doubles at Cornell University.

Over time, he has coached in different places but currently teaches mostly children at Szot Park in Chicopee. Fein also plays in a men’s open division in New England, in which he ranked number five in the nation in 2020.

He describes himself as, “[A] tournament player, coach, observer, writer.”

As a writer, Fein has covered famous events such as the US Open, Wimbledon and the Davis and Fed Cups. Some of his articles have appeared in sports and tennis publications in 30 countries and has received more than 40 awards.

Piling on to his accomplishments, Fein is one of 125 experts to vote for candidates for the International Tennis Hall of Fame.

He said, “I’m not a big-name coach, but I am a United States Professional Tennis Association (USPTA) coach – certified, qualified; elite rating.”

Fein describes this time in his life as “exciting” and “interesting.” He remains hopeful that this book gets positive reviews.

He is now focusing on publicity for his book. Fein has been interviewed by many reporters, and even spoke on a sports talk show. As of press time, Fein said he has sold about 30 copies, relatively quickly, to many friends and acquaintances. The book costs $34.95 and can be found on coacheschoice.com and Amazon.

Anyone wishing to receive an autographed copy of Fein’s book can email him directly at lincjeff1@comcast.net.

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