Serve and return tactics for net control

What this lesson covers

Effective serving requires depth to force the opponent back. A serve landing behind the service line and hitting the sidewall forces the receiver to step back, preventing them from applying pressure. When serving to the sidewall, aim for the second half of the glass to maximize the ball's backward movement. Serving deep into the body is equally effective against receivers who stand close to the service line, as it denies them the time needed for a quality return.

Controlling the net depends on the quality of the first three shots. A slow return placed at the feet of the server as they move toward the net is a powerful tool to neutralize their advantage. If the server is already established at the net, a lob over their head is the preferred option. When the serve is fast, playing the ball directly back to the player already at the net can be difficult for them to handle. Always aim to volley toward the same player you served to, forcing them to move and creating space for a chiquita to take control of the rally.