3 players · Beginner · 12 min
Return depth observation round
Separate return depth from point-winning with a dedicated observer and equal role turns.
Rackets + balls
3 players · Beginner · 12 minutes
Two-returner serve lanes
Give a server realistic receiving positions while two returners share clear turns.
- Equipment
- rackets, balls
- Space
- One tennis court with clear run-off space
- Suggested block
- 12 minutes; allow at least 6
Drill instructions
Purpose & setup
Give a server realistic receiving positions while two returners share clear turns.
A serves from behind the near baseline. B receives deuce serves from the far diagonal corner; C receives ad serves from the other far corner. The non-receiver waits behind the baseline outside the active receiver’s swing space.
How to play
- A serves from deuce with two attempts. B returns a legal serve towards the near singles backcourt; end on the return’s first bounce or an earlier miss.
- A moves to ad and C takes the next return. The other receiver watches without entering the point.
- Complete six attempts, alternating receiving sides even after a double fault.
- Rotate A → B’s role, B → C’s role, C → server. Finish the current attempt at time.
Scoring or success
The server counts legal serves out of six. Each receiver counts deep in-court returns out of their three chances; a double fault is a chance with no return point.
Rotation & roles
Rotate all three roles every six attempts. Each receiver rests from hitting on alternate attempts; retrieve together only during the dead-ball pause.
Make it easier
The server uses a gentle modified serve from closer to the service line, explicitly as a practice feed.
Add a challenge
Require returns to land in a nominated broad crosscourt backcourt half.
Mixed levels
Use a wider return target for the less experienced receiver and keep both on the same three-chance schedule.
Safety & spacing
Receivers keep well apart behind the baseline and do not chase balls into one another’s space. The server waits for the active receiver to be ready.
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.