Volley Transition and Put-Away Drill

This drill develops the ability to use the volley as a transition shot, preparing players to move forward and finish the point at the net. By combining a cooperative sequence of volleys with directional changes, players practice balance, control, and the confidence to finish with a put-away shot.

Setup

• Coach with basket of balls between the baseline and service line
• Players lined up behind the service line on the opposite side
• Optional cones to mark down-the-line and crosscourt targets

Rules & Objectives

• Coach feeds the first ball to the player at the service line
• Player volleys the ball back directly to the coach
• Coach feeds a second ball, again volleyed back directly
• Coach now plays a crosscourt ball
• Player volleys this ball down the line as a transition put-away shot
• Player rotates out; next player in line repeats the sequence

Repetition

• Continue until each player completes multiple sequences
• Add scoring: 1 point for hitting the down-the-line target cleanly
• Progress to faster feeds or lower volleys to simulate pressure
• For advanced players, add a lob from the coach after the final volley to train recovery

Coaching Points

• Builds control and confidence in volley transitions
• Trains directional volleying (crosscourt to down-the-line)
• Reinforces forward movement and balance at the net
• Prepares players for point-winning volleys in live play

Drill Tutorial