Chiquita technique: slice to the opponent's feet

What this lesson covers

The coach demonstrates the chiquita as a tactical tool to disrupt the opponent's net position. Instead of waiting for the ball to drop, the player makes contact in front of the body with a short, controlled arm movement. This approach uses gravity to keep the ball heavy and low, forcing the opponent to lift the ball from below the net level. The coach emphasizes that the chiquita should be manufactured by playing balls with tension toward the opponent's body or backhand, creating a setup where the opponent is forced to block the ball short.

When executing the shot, the player uses a slice motion to keep the trajectory flat and deep. The coach warns against over-complicating the shot with excessive wrist movement, recommending a stable grip and a consistent follow-through. If the opponent anticipates the chiquita, the player should switch to a lob or change the target area to the middle of the court to regain control. This lesson is best suited for players looking to add variety to their transition game and improve their ability to neutralize aggressive net players.