Defensive positioning and shot selection

What this lesson covers

Defensive positioning requires standing between the service line and the back glass. Staying too close to the glass causes late contact on fast rebounds, while standing too far forward makes it difficult to reach balls that bounce behind. When defending, orient the body toward the cross-court angle to ensure the forehand and backhand are both struck in front of the body.

Decision-making depends on where the ball bounces relative to the service line. If the ball bounces in front, take it directly before it reaches the glass. If the ball bounces behind, let it hit the glass to gain time and control. When playing off the back glass, keep the racket low and prepared early to avoid long, slow swings. Bend the knees to stay low, which allows for better control when choosing between a lob or a chiquita. These two shots, hit from the same preparation, prevent opponents from reading the next move.