Approach and Touch Volley Combination Drill

This drill develops a player’s ability to transition from the baseline to the net with confidence. By combining an approach shot, a wide volley, and a touch drop volley, players practice both aggressive and delicate net play. It’s an excellent sequence for improving footwork, shot variety, and control under pressure.

Setup

• Feeder positioned at the T-line with a basket of balls
• Two single-file lines of players on opposite sides of the court
• Optional cones or markers to define target zones for volleys and drop shots

Rules & Objectives

• Feeder sends the first ball into the service box
• Player hits an approach shot down the line and moves forward
• Feeder immediately feeds a wide ball; player volleys it aggressively to the opposite side
• Feeder then feeds a short ball; player finishes with a crosscourt touch/drop volley near the net
• Player rotates to the opposite line after completing the sequence
• Next player steps in and repeats the drill from their side

Repetition

• Run through the sequence for all players, rotating continuously
• Adjust the width of the second volley feed based on skill level
• Define smaller or larger target zones to increase or decrease difficulty
• Progress to live rally play where opponents respond after the approach shot

Coaching Points

• Trains transition play from baseline to net
• Improves control on aggressive wide volleys and delicate drop volleys
• Builds awareness of shot placement and target areas
• Reinforces movement, balance, and quick recovery in net play

Drill Tutorial