Bandeja technique: grip change for aggressive spin

What this lesson covers

This lesson focuses on adjusting the grip during the preparation of a bandeja to create a more aggressive, dipping ball trajectory. By shifting from a standard continental grip to a forehand grip as the paddle moves upward, the player generates more natural spin without needing to force the slice motion manually. This technique allows the ball to drop sharply after hitting the back glass, making it difficult for opponents to return.

To execute this, keep the hand higher on the grip rather than at the very bottom. A higher hand position keeps the arm active and prevents the wrist from becoming too loose, which often leads to a loss of control. The motion involves rotating the body like a bullfighter while bringing the arm inward, similar to the style used by professional players like Coki Nieto. This adjustment is particularly effective when the player has time to set their feet and position themselves behind the ball, turning a standard defensive shot into an offensive tool that keeps the opponent under pressure.