Volley control: patience and short backswing

What this lesson covers

This lesson focuses on maintaining control during net exchanges by prioritizing patience and ball placement over power. The coach emphasizes that players should not rush to finish the point, especially when feeling uncomfortable. Instead, the goal is to sustain a rally of at least five balls before attempting to win the point. When the ball arrives quickly, the player must keep the volley stroke short and compact to ensure consistent contact, rather than swinging wildly. A key tactical point is to aim volleys diagonally to create more space and margin for error, particularly when the opponent is at the net.

Regarding the lob, the objective is to make the opponent uncomfortable rather than hitting a perfect shot near the baseline. A lob that forces the opponent to move is sufficient. When moving forward, players are encouraged to use a chiquita to approach the net effectively. The coach highlights the importance of body orientation, advising players to stand sideways rather than facing the net directly to allow for better ball tracking and preparation. This session is best suited for intermediate players looking to improve their defensive patience and transition play.