Tennis
Net Play
Overhead Smash Training
Tennis drill for net play training sessions
Practise positioning and execution of overhead smashes from mid-court and net.
What This Drill Improves
This tennis drill is best for intermediate players who need focused work on net play. It works well with 2 players and can be adjusted by changing the space, pressure, or scoring rules.
Setup
Feeder on baseline with lobs. Player starts at net.
Instructions
- Feeder tosses or hits a lob over the player.
- Player turns, shuffles back, and smashes into a target zone.
- Aim for open court or at the feeder's feet.
- 10 reps from right side, 10 from left.
Coaching Points
✓ Turn sideways immediately — don't backpedal square-on.
✓ Non-racket arm points up at the ball.
✓ Hit at the highest comfortable point.
Common Mistakes to Watch For
- Players losing focus on the main coaching point.
- The drill area being too large or too small for the group.
- Progressing the drill before the basic pattern is clean.
Progressions: Make It Harder
→ Feeder goes to baseline and plays the smash out.
→ Player must smash, recover, and play next ball.
→ Deep lob — player lets it bounce then smash.
Regressions: Make It Easier
Start without defenders, then add pressure once the movement pattern is clear.
Allow extra touches until players understand the timing.
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