Backhand volley: technique and control drills

What this lesson covers

The backhand volley requires a compact preparation with the racket head held higher than the ball. Keeping the non-dominant hand behind the racket helps maintain a balanced, stable position. Players should focus on a long follow-through to accelerate the ball after the bounce, rather than stopping the motion abruptly, which risks injury and reduces slice. Using a continental grip allows for better control and easier transitions between shots at the net.

To build a point effectively, the volley should land before the service line and stay low, ideally passing underneath a bench placed as a reference point. This trajectory prevents the ball from bouncing off the back glass and becoming an easy setup for the opponents. A combination of flat and slice contact is necessary to achieve this depth and height control.

Footwork is integrated by stepping into the shot with the right foot, which facilitates body rotation and allows for a longer forward extension. Maintaining a low, squat-like ready position at the net ensures the player is prepared to move forward through the ball. This progression is most beneficial for players looking to transition from defensive blocking to controlled, aggressive net play.