Court positioning and tactical shot selection

What this lesson covers

The court is divided into three distinct zones to guide shot selection based on the opponents' positioning. When deciding where to place a chiquita, identify which opponent is standing closer to the net and avoid hitting to them. Instead, target the player who is further back to minimize risk. Conversely, when choosing who to lob, identify the player who is less comfortable or taller and force them to move.

Effective net play involves using volleys to push opponents back before selecting the appropriate target for a lob. Avoid hitting a lob to a player who is already prepared or comfortable at the net. If an opponent plays a bandeja, do not hit a chiquita back to them, as their position is already set. Instead, look for the open area created by their movement and direct the ball there. Maintaining a controlled split step during transitions prevents overrunning the ball and ensures better defensive positioning. This approach suits players looking to move beyond hitting hard and start winning points through tactical awareness.