Bandeja technique: the high forehand volley

What this lesson covers

The bandeja is essentially an exaggerated high forehand volley. Players often struggle by treating it as a separate, complex smash, which leads to dropping the elbow and hitting the ball upward. To maintain consistency, the racket must start high with the shoulders turned sideways, keeping the continental grip throughout the entire motion. The arm position should mirror a standard forehand volley, with the racket head remaining vertical as if resting a drink on a table while still being able to see over it.

Footwork is vital for success. Players must move early to get into position, using small steps to stabilize the body before contact. The coach emphasizes pushing forward from the toes into the ball, rather than swinging with two hands. By shadowing the movement from a ready position, turning the shoulders, and keeping the elbow up, the player creates a consistent path for the ball. This approach is ideal for players who find their bandeja inconsistent or prone to spraying balls when the intensity of a match increases.