Volley pressure: keeping the ball flat and short

What this lesson covers

Effective volleying relies on applying constant pressure to prevent opponents from lobbing. By keeping the ball flat and ensuring the bounce occurs in front of the body, the player denies the opponent the time and space needed to execute a lob. A common mistake involves using the hands or wrist to scoop underneath the ball, which creates excessive slice and float. Instead, the focus remains on using the shoulders to drive the shot, keeping the paddle compact and close to the body.

Technically, the setup starts high with the paddle positioned in front. The shot is held back rather than extended fully to avoid creating an unintentional, high-floating slice. When the ball arrives with pace, the player uses that force to block or redirect it, keeping the trajectory short and tight. This approach is particularly effective against aggressive players who look to move forward, as it forces them to stretch or stay back. By maintaining a simple, compact motion without unnecessary wrist action, the player gains the ability to control the tempo and wait for the right moment to transition into an offensive position.