Defence and volley: technical consistency

What this lesson covers

This training session focuses on maintaining a low center of gravity during defence to improve consistency. The coach emphasizes keeping the support leg behind the body to generate power, rather than stepping back to hit the ball. Players are encouraged to maintain a short, compact swing in both defence and at the net to ensure they are ready for the next shot. Early preparation is a recurring theme, as late preparation leads to a loss of control and timing.

At the net, the coach highlights the importance of short, controlled volleys. For long-line volleys, the preparation starts slightly further back, while cross-court shots require a shorter, more direct movement. The goal is to avoid long, exaggerated swings that leave the player vulnerable. By keeping the racket ready in front and using the chest for acceleration rather than the wrist, players can maintain pressure without sacrificing their position. This session is suited for intermediate players looking to improve their transition from defence to attack.