2 players · Intermediate · 12 min
Approach and first volley
Follow a short-ball approach with a controlled first volley.
Rackets + balls
2 players · Intermediate · 12 minutes
Defensive lob and recover
Use a high defensive ball to regain court position under controlled pressure.
- Equipment
- rackets, balls
- Space
- One tennis court with clear run-off space
- Suggested block
- 12 minutes; allow at least 6
Drill instructions
Purpose & setup
Use a high defensive ball to regain court position under controlled pressure.
A begins behind the near baseline and B at the far service line. B uses a gentle racket feed to a near singles corner. T is the far backcourt; B does not smash the lob.
How to play
- B feeds gently to one near corner. A moves to it, lets it bounce once and lobs towards T.
- A recovers towards the near centre while B allows the lob to bounce. The sequence ends there.
- B retrieves after the ball stops, then feeds the other corner. Do not hit a second ball during retrieval.
- After six attempts swap roles. Finish the current attempt when time ends.
Scoring or success
One point for a lob landing behind the far service line inside singles and one for a balanced recovery. Record out of twelve.
Rotation & roles
Alternate fed corners every attempt; swap feeder and defender after six attempts.
Make it easier
Feed closer to the defender’s starting position and use the whole far court.
Add a challenge
Feed a little wider while preserving safe reach and a deep lob target.
Mixed levels
Use a shorter recovery distance and slower feed for the less mobile player.
Safety & spacing
B never attempts an overhead in this drill. A should turn and move rather than run backwards; keep adjacent courts and overhead space clear.
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.
- USTA: Tennis tips and instruction — General coaching reference; does not validate these custom games.
- LTA: Improve your game — General learning resource; custom rotations and scoring require review.