Increasing volley speed with short preparation

What this lesson covers

Increasing ball speed requires short preparation and explosive footwork rather than a longer swing. The coach emphasizes maintaining a compact motion while generating power through body weight, forward contact, and aggressive leg drive. Players should focus on hitting the ball in front of the body to ensure clean contact and avoid the common mistake of letting the ball drop behind the head, which forces a weak, upward strike. By keeping the preparation short and using the shoulders to create inertia, the player can maintain control even at higher velocities.

Targeting is equally important when increasing speed. The coach advises aiming away from the back glass and side fence, keeping the ball deep enough to pressure the opponent but with enough margin to stay safe. A key drill involves hitting short, intense series of five volleys, focusing on the downward trajectory of the stroke. When the ball is taken at the right height with a firm, downward motion, the player gains both speed and accuracy. This progression is intended for players who have already mastered ball volume and placement and are now ready to add pace to their game.