Tennis Return

Return of Serve Patterns

Tennis drill for return training sessions

Practise reading serve direction and executing effective return patterns.

25 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 return. It works well with 2 players and can be adjusted by changing the space, pressure, or scoring rules.

Setup

Server at baseline serves from deuce and ad sides. Returner reads and responds.

Instructions

  1. Server aims to three zones but doesn't call target.
  2. Returner reads ball toss and contact point.
  3. Return crosscourt — neutralise. Return DTL — risky, high reward.
  4. Count success rate over 20 serves each side.

Coaching Points

✓ Watch the ball toss — it reveals direction early.
✓ Stay compact on return — not a full swing.
✓ Move into the court on second serve.

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

→ Serve + rally — point is live after return.
→ Returner must call the direction before striking.
→ Chip and charge on second serve.

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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Tactics Baseline Battle — Directional 30 min · Intermediate Groundstrokes Crosscourt Rally Consistency 20 min · Beginner Serve Serve Placement Drill 20 min · Intermediate
return serve reading tactics
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