Tactical decision making drill with three balls

What this lesson covers

This drill focuses on tactical decision-making and mental concentration under pressure. Players compete in a tie-break to 25 points, with a restriction against smashing to ensure long rallies and physical endurance. Each pair holds three balls, and when a point concludes, the losing pair must immediately put a new ball into play from below the waist. The objective is to identify and target the open space while managing the anxiety that arises when opponents apply pressure.

Success depends on observing the opponent's position before putting the ball back into play. Players must wait for a poor shot from the opposition to gain an advantage rather than rushing the next ball. The exercise demands constant focus across the three consecutive points, as the difficulty increases when transitioning from a static position to a moving one. It highlights the importance of closing down angles and choosing the right shot, such as a chiquita or a lob, based on the opponent's movement. This drill is for players who need to improve their tactical awareness and mental composure during high-intensity match play.