Tennis Tactics

Serve & Return Game — First Strike

Competitive game where both players aim to win the point within the first two shots.

30 minDuration
2 playersGroup size
AdvancedDifficulty
Full courtSpace needed
Balls, racketsEquipment

Setup

Normal singles. Scoring to 11 points, alternate serve.

Instructions

  1. Server aims to win with the serve or serve + 1.
  2. Returner aims to neutralise or attack on the return.
  3. If point lasts 3+ shots, both players restart — point doesn't count.
  4. Forces aggressive first-strike thinking.

Coaching Points

✓ Server: pick a pattern — where does your serve + 1 go?
✓ Returner: step in and take the ball early on second serve.
✓ Neutralising return is fine — attack on the short ball.

Progressions

→ Play to 7 with only 4 shots allowed per point.
→ Serve + volley mandatory for server.
→ Both players serve and volley.

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