Self Pass Bounce Hit

This warm-up drill combines control, touch, and aggressive hitting to prepare players for match play. Players rally crosscourt but must first stop the ball, self-pass it upward, and then hit it aggressively with topspin. The sequence develops soft hands for ball control while also encouraging quick footwork and explosive follow-through. It’s a fun and challenging way to warm up both mind and body at the start of practice.

Setup

• Players pair up across the net, positioned at the baseline
• Each pair rallies crosscourt (deuce side vs. deuce side, ad side vs. ad side)
• Standard rackets and balls

Rules & Objectives

• Player A hits the ball crosscourt to Player B
• Player B stops the ball softly with their racket
• Player B self-passes the ball upward in front of the service line (not behind)
• After the bounce, Player B aggressively hits the ball crosscourt with topspin
• Player A repeats the same sequence: stop → self-pass → topspin shot
• Continue alternating the sequence within the rally

Repetition

• Run the drill for a set time (2–3 minutes per pair) before switching partners
• Increase difficulty by requiring higher self-passes or deeper aggressive shots
• Add a target zone (service box corner) for the aggressive hit
• Transition from self-pass rallies to standard crosscourt rallies once warmed up

Coaching Points

• Builds soft hands for ball control and touch
• Trains footwork to step into the ball after the self-pass
• Reinforces topspin technique on aggressive shots
• Provides a dynamic and competitive warm-up

Drill Tutorial