Tennis Net Play

Approach & Volley

Tennis drill for net play training sessions

Player moves from baseline to net using a short ball as the approach trigger.

20 minDuration
2 playersGroup size
IntermediateDifficulty
Full courtSpace needed
Balls, racketsEquipment

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 at net with balls. Player at baseline.

Instructions

  1. Feeder drops short ball to mid-court.
  2. Player moves in and hits an approach shot crosscourt.
  3. Continues forward and volleys the next feed.
  4. Recover to baseline after each point. 10 reps each side.

Coaching Points

✓ Approach shot goes crosscourt — take away the angle.
✓ Split-step just before feeder strikes.
✓ Volley — punch, don't swing.

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 plays the point out after the volley.
→ Approach down the line (harder).
→ Two volleys before the point ends.

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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