Net Pressure & Reaction Game

This drill trains doubles players to volley effectively under pressure, focusing on quick reactions, controlled placement, and maintaining an attacking position at the net. It begins with a fed ball into a set sequence, then develops into live point play. Players also practice rotating positions, ensuring everyone gets repetitions on both offense and defense.

Setup

• Four players on court (doubles setup)
• Player 1 positioned near baseline with a basket of balls (feeder)
• Player 3 at the net opposite Player 1
• Player 2 at the service line opposite Player 3
• Player 4 waiting to rotate in

Rules & Objectives

• Player 1 feeds the first ball as a volley to Player 3 at the net
• Player 3 volleys directly to the feet of Player 2 at the service line
• Player 2 attempts to return the volley
• After this three-ball sequence, Player 2 and Player 3 play out the point competitively
• Continue until the rally ends
• After an agreed period (e.g., 5 minutes or set number of points), players rotate positions so everyone practices feeding, volleying, and defending

Repetition

• Run multiple rotations so all players get equal time at each position
• Add scoring: 1 point for net player winning the rally, 1 point for service-line defender if they pass or neutralize
• Increase difficulty by feeding faster balls or forcing wider volleys
• Progression: both players at net volleying alternately to simulate real doubles exchanges

Coaching Points

• Reinforces volley fundamentals: contact out front, firm wrist, and forward movement
• Improves reflexes and reaction speed at the net
• Trains defenders to handle low volleys at their feet
• Builds confidence in transitioning from a controlled feed into live play
• Encourages doubles-specific positioning and teamwork

Drill Tutorial