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HomePracticePractice for 1–4 players2 playersCrosscourt then change the line

2 players · Intermediate · 12 minutes

Crosscourt then change the line

Recognise when to change direction after establishing a diagonal rally.

Competitive game · Crosscourt · Down the line · Minimum 6 minutes

Equipment
rackets, balls
Space
One tennis court with clear run-off space
Suggested block
12 minutes; allow at least 6
Open practice planner →

Drill instructions

Crosscourt then change the line: court patternA and B first rally on the near-right/far-left diagonal. A then changes to far right T; the full singles point opens after that change. T Net AB
● Letter = player   → Ball   ⇢ Movement   T = targetA and B first rally on the near-right/far-left diagonal. A then changes to far right T; the full singles point opens after that change.Starting positions are schematic; follow the written setup.

Purpose & setup

Recognise when to change direction after establishing a diagonal rally.

A and B start behind opposite diagonal singles corners. Agree which player is the direction changer for this round; begin with A.

How to play

  1. A drop-feeds crosscourt. Both complete three cooperative crosscourt returns after the feed.
  2. A may change down the line on A’s next comfortable ball; if not comfortable, continue crosscourt until one is.
  3. After the down-the-line shot the full singles court is open. Play out the point after one bounce or with volleys.
  4. A miss, out ball or second bounce ends the point. After four points give B the change role; mirror the starting diagonal after both rounds.

Scoring or success

One point for winning the open rally. If a miss ends the cooperative phase, replay without a point. These are custom point-opening rules.

Rotation & roles

Change the designated direction changer every four points. Alternate feeder each point and mirror the diagonal after eight points.

Make it easier

Allow the direction change after one crosscourt return and use a gentle pace.

Add a challenge

Require four deep crosscourt returns before the change becomes available.

Mixed levels

Allow the less experienced changer a larger straight target; keep the opening rally cooperative for both.

Safety & spacing

Call “open” when changing direction so both know the full court is live. Stop if a stray ball enters either player’s route.

Follow the illustrated instructions. No video has been published for this activity.

Sources & editorial status

Editorial review needed: original practice rules and diagram, not coach-approved. These are optional practice rules, not official competition rules. References support general tennis guidance; they do not endorse this format.

Keep the session going.

Crosscourt rally challenge: court patternA and B exchange crosscourt balls between opposite diagonal baseline corners. Mirror the diagonal after five rallies. T Net AB

2 players · Beginner · 12 min

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Consistency · Crosscourt

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Down the line · Consistency

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