Catch-and-Drop Hand-Eye Coordination Drill

This drill combines hand-eye coordination, timing, and footwork by requiring players to catch the fed ball, drop it, and then hit a forehand or backhand. It slows the game down slightly to emphasize contact point awareness and racket preparation, while still reinforcing proper movement and shot mechanics.

Setup

• Coach stands on one side of the net with a basket of balls
• Player starts at the baseline, ready to move

Rules & Objectives

• Coach feeds a ball toward the player
• Player moves into position, catches the ball with their non-hitting hand, and drops it in front of them
• Player immediately strikes the ball after the bounce:
• Forehand: Drop with the left hand (for right-handers)
• One-handed backhand: Drop with the non-hitting hand, strike with the dominant hand
• Two-handed backhand: Drop with the non-hitting hand, then bring both hands to the racket before hitting
• Shots can be hit down the line or crosscourt
• Repeat for multiple feeds

Repetition

• Begin with 10–15 feeds per side
• Progression 1: Play out a short game or tiebreak using the catch-and-drop rule for every stroke
• Progression 2: Vary feed height and direction to challenge timing

Coaching Points

• Improves hand-eye coordination and timing
• Reinforces correct contact point and body positioning
• Builds confidence in both forehand and backhand strokes
• Adds variety for juniors and beginners needing controlled tempo

Drill Tutorial