Attack the Serve & Take the Net

This drill teaches singles players how to transition quickly from defense to offense by attacking the return of serve and moving forward to the net. By limiting serves and forcing players to approach, it develops aggressive play, sharpens anticipation, and improves net skills. The variation also gives servers opportunities to step in when a short return is hit, keeping both players alert and reactive.

Setup

• Singles format (two players on court)
• Additional players can rotate in after each point if group training
• Normal singles court
• Only one serve attempt allowed per point

Rules & Objectives

• Server begins the point with a single serve
• Receiver aims to hit a deep return and immediately approaches the net
• Players play out the point with the receiver attacking and the server defending
• After each rally, rotate players if in a group, or alternate serves if in singles
• VariationReceiver intentionally plays a short return into the service box
• This forces the server to move forward, lift the ball, and transition into an attacking position
• Server then plays the point out from the net after their approach

Repetition

• Begin with cooperative feeds, focusing on return depth and movement
• Move to competitive play, tracking who wins more points off the approach
• Restrict approach direction (e.g., always down the line or always crosscourt) to build accuracy
• Play to 7 or 11 points per rotation for added competition

Coaching Points

• Trains aggressive returns to set up offensive play
• Builds confidence in approaching the net
• Improves footwork and transition timing
• Teaches servers to recognize and attack short returns
• Enhances tactical awareness for singles point construction

Drill Tutorial