Deep Target Accuracy Drill

This cooperative baseline drill emphasizes shot depth and accuracy by having players aim for a designated marker in the back half of the court. Players sustain rallies while focusing on consistent placement rather than winning points. The exercise develops precision, control, and disciplined footwork.

Setup

  • Two players positioned on opposite baselines
  • One marker (cone or target) placed deep in the back half of the court
  • Optional: markers on both sides for crosscourt or multiple target variations

Rules & Objectives

  • Players rally cooperatively from the baseline
  • Each player aims to hit the designated marker (or target area) as often as possible
  • Focus is on depth and accuracy, not point play
  • Variations:
  • Add a second marker on the opposite side for additional targets
  • Play crosscourt rallies instead of down the line
  • Restrict shots to forehands only, backhands only, or alternate patterns

Repetition

  • Continue rallies for set time intervals (2–3 minutes) or rally counts (e.g., 20 balls)
  • Keep score by counting how many times each player hits the target
  • Progress to competitive scoring between pairs or groups

Coaching Points

  • Improves accuracy and depth on groundstrokes
  • Reinforces good footwork and body positioning
  • Builds consistency in cooperative rallies
  • Develops discipline to hit controlled, purposeful shots

Drill Tutorial

Difficulty:

Emphasis: Groundstroke Drills

Age Group:

Format:

Additional Tennis Drills