Deep Rally Drill

This drill trains players to consistently hit deep shots beyond the service line. By rewarding depth instead of speed or power, players develop control, rhythm, and confidence from the baseline. The scoring system reinforces proper placement and encourages accuracy during extended rallies. Coaches can also add a height requirement to emphasize net clearance and reinforce depth through trajectory.

Setup

• Two players rally from the baseline
• Mark the service line as the depth target
• Optional: Stretch a rope or barrier across the net at twice the normal height to encourage higher net clearance

Rules & Objectives

• Players rally from the baseline
• Each ball that lands beyond the service line scores 1 point
• Shots landing inside the service box score no points
• Players keep rallying, aiming for consistent depth
• Compare scores after a set number of rallies or time
• Optional: require shots to pass above the rope/barrier before clearing the net to emphasize height and depth

Repetition

• Rotate players so everyone practices against different partners
• Run rounds for a set time or first to a target score
• Practice both straight rallies and crosscourt patterns

Coaching Points

• Builds confidence in hitting deep, controlled shots
• Reinforces consistent rally rhythm
• Improves net clearance and shot trajectory when using a rope barrier

Drill Tutorial