Lobbing Accuracy

This drill is ideal for small groups of three players and focuses on developing lobbing skills, including height, depth, and directional control. Two baseline players work on lifting the ball over a defender positioned at the service line, who practices reading lobs and reacting with limited movement. The setup creates a fun and competitive challenge while reinforcing both offensive lobbing and defensive positioning.

Setup

• 3 players
• Two players positioned just behind the baseline
• One player positioned at the service line with racquet raised
• Standard court and balls (can also be run in half-court for larger groups)

Rules & Objectives

• The two baseline players rally by hitting controlled lobs aimed to land between the ¾ court area and the baseline
• The service-line player may move only one step in any direction while keeping their racquet raised
• The service-line player tries to touch or intercept each lob as it passes overhead
• Once the defender touches three lobs, players rotate positions (e.g., service-line player moves back to baseline, baseline player rotates forward)

Repetition

• Run the drill in half-court when more players are available (e.g., 6 players in two groups of 3)
• Add a scoring variation: the service-line player must hit an overhead back into play (instead of just touching the lob) to earn a point. After 3 points, rotate positions
• Challenge baseline players to vary lobs (deep, angled, or higher trajectory)
• Limit time per round (e.g., 3 minutes per rotation) to increase pace

Coaching Points

• Improves lob accuracy and control (depth, height, and direction)
• Trains anticipation and footwork for defending against lobs
• Builds overhead timing for the service-line player
• Keeps players active and engaged in small-group settings

Drill Tutorial