Volley footwork: using lunges for wide balls

What this lesson covers

This lesson focuses on footwork when reaching for wide volleys at the net. The coach emphasizes maintaining a compact racket preparation to avoid losing balance or hitting into the net. Players must treat the movement like a lunge, pushing off the leg to strike the ball while keeping the racket head up and ready. The goal is to move in and out of the shot quickly, avoiding extra steps that disrupt the rhythm.

Directional control remains a priority during these wide movements. The coach advises playing the ball in the direction of the lunge to maintain body alignment and avoid awkward recovery. After the shot, the player must immediately return to the central net position rather than watching the ball. This drill is for players who struggle with balance or over-swinging when the ball forces them away from their starting spot.