Volley technique: footwork and tactical direction

What this lesson covers

The coach addresses common technical and tactical errors in the volley. Players should maintain a distance of two and a half to three meters from the net to allow time for preparation and forward movement. A low center of gravity is essential, with ninety percent of body weight on the back leg before moving toward the ball. The back foot should lift upon contact, creating an action-reaction movement that drives the player toward the ball. On the backhand, both hands must stay forward, and the wrist should remain flexible rather than rigid to ensure the paddle face meets the ball correctly.

Tactically, the incoming ball determines the shot direction. When moving wide to reach a ball, the player should follow the momentum of their body rather than forcing a change in direction. Hitting a parallel shot while moving wide leaves the center of the court exposed. Instead, maintain the direction of the movement to keep the court covered. Similarly, when the ball arrives close to the body, playing a parallel shot allows the player to close the space efficiently. The goal is to align the shot with the body's natural energy to maintain a solid net position.