Volley block technique: neutralise fast shots

What this lesson covers

The volley block serves to maintain net dominance when opponents play with high speed. Players often force an aggressive volley when they lack time, which leads to errors. Instead, the block uses the opponent's pace to keep the ball in play and neutralise the pressure. The focus lies on meeting the ball early in front of the body rather than using a full swing. Rotation of the torso provides the necessary power, while the wrist stays firm to ensure the face of the racket meets the ball cleanly.

Training this skill involves a partner feeding fast balls to the net player. The goal is to keep the hand forward and lean the body into the shot. Once the block feels consistent, the feeder introduces slower balls. This forces the player to distinguish between situations requiring a block and those where they have enough time to prepare a full attacking volley. Drills include feeding to the body to force weight shifts and alternating between blocks and full swings to build situational awareness.