Net positioning: track opponents instead of partners

What this lesson covers

Players often turn their heads to check on their partner during a rally. This habit is unnecessary and disrupts court awareness. Information about where to move comes from the opponents, not the partner. The movement of the ball and the body position of the opponents dictate when to retreat or when to hold the net position.

Think of the opponents as monsters approaching. When they are in a comfortable position to attack, retreat. When they are under pressure, hold your ground. Communication remains helpful, but visual tracking of the opponents is the primary way to decide on court movement. This lesson suits players who find themselves looking back at their partner instead of watching the ball.