Decision making and aerial game tactics

What this lesson covers

The lesson focuses on tactical decision-making during the transition and defense. When receiving a deep ball that makes a clean return difficult, the priority is to hit with enough power to force the ball against the back glass. This keeps the opponent at the back and prevents them from taking the net position. If the ball is too uncomfortable to return effectively, accepting the loss of the net is a better tactical choice than attempting a risky shot that leads to an easy put-away for the opponent.

Distinguishing between high lobs and fast lobs is critical for choosing the right shot. A high lob provides time to set up, whereas a fast lob limits options. When the opponent is at the net, use them as a wall to block the ball if there is no space to hit to the feet. Identifying your own comfort zone on the court is essential for deciding when to play aggressively and when to play defensively. The most effective players constantly monitor the opponent's position to decide whether to aim for the feet or use a different angle.