Lob return tactics: defensive and attacking scenarios

What this lesson covers

The lob return serves two distinct tactical purposes depending on the opponent's serve. A defensive lob is used when the opponent hits a serve down the T, forcing the returner to move across the court. This high trajectory buys time to recover to the correct court position and prevents the volleyer from hitting a fast ball into the open space. This defensive option is rarely used off the side glass unless the player is trapped in the corner.

An attacking lob is used against serves that land in the middle of the box and do not touch the side glass. The intention here is to hit the ball over the opponents' heads to allow the returner and their partner to move forward and take the net position. Success depends on having a clear intention before the ball arrives, as an unclear plan often results in an easy ball for the opponents. Players should only attempt these lobs if they are within their technical capabilities. To practice this, players can set a structure for a match where they alternate between hitting the return down to the feet and hitting a lob, helping to distinguish when to prioritize court position over immediate aggression.