Down-the-line target challenge

Purpose & setup

Keep a straight rally in a broad lane before narrowing the target.

A and B stand at opposite baselines on the same side of the centre line. Use that half of the singles court as the lane, including its lines.

How to play

1. A drop-feeds down the line to B. Keep every shot in the agreed half-court lane.
2. After four cooperative returns, the next shot may aim at the deep target T within that lane.
3. The rally ends on a miss, second bounce or first successful deep target after the four returns.
4. Alternate feeder each rally. After five rallies switch to the other lane; finish the rally when time ends.

Scoring or success

Both earn one shared point for completing four returns; the player hitting the final deep target earns one extra. Custom practice rules.

Rotation & roles

Alternate feeder every rally. Both move to the other lane after five rallies, only once the ball is dead.

Mixed levels

Use a larger target for the less experienced player and a smaller one for the stronger player.

Safety & spacing

Keep spare balls and equipment outside playing routes. Call shared balls, leave room for swings and retrieve only after the ball is dead. Use a comfortable pace and stop rather than chasing into another player or court.