Moving Target Awareness Drill

This drill develops consistency, accuracy, and court awareness by requiring players to direct every return back to their opponent’s exact position. One player moves deliberately around the court—changing from baseline to sideline to net—while the other must observe and adjust, always sending the ball back to where the opponent stands. This forces players to keep their eyes up, read movement, and control shot placement under pressure. The exercise also builds tactical awareness by simulating the need to recognize positioning during live points.

Setup

• Two players begin on opposite baselines
• One player acts as the moving target, shifting to different positions on the court after each shot
• The other player is tasked with always directing the ball back to the moving target

Rules & Objectives

• The rally begins with a feed
• The moving target player (e.g., red) changes positions after each shot: baseline corner, opposite sideline, or even advancing to the net
• The hitter (e.g., black) must return the ball directly back to the moving target’s current location
• Continue the sequence, with the moving target varying positions to test awareness and accuracy
• After 5–10 minutes, switch roles so both players experience both tasks

Repetition

• Start with baseline-to-baseline movement only, then add net approaches
• Increase the pace and unpredictability of movement to raise difficulty
• Extend rally length goals to build consistency under pressure

Coaching Points

• Sharpens shot accuracy and control
• Trains players to observe and adapt to opponent positioning
• Improves footwork and anticipation while under directional demands
• Builds tactical awareness for real match play situations

Drill Tutorial