Baseline vs. Net Cooperative Rally

This cooperative rally drill builds consistency, footwork, and recovery skills while reinforcing volley placement and controlled groundstrokes. The focus is not on winning points but on maintaining a steady rally with correct shot patterns. It’s a versatile drill with variations that allow players to practice both forehand and backhand sides, as well as recovery to center positioning.

Setup

• One player at the baseline, one player at the net
• Cones/markers optional to designate “half-court only” zones
• Full singles court available for progressions

Rules & Objectives

• Start with one player at the baseline and the other at the net
• Pattern 1:
• Net player volleys crosscourt
• Baseline player replies down the line
• Rally continues with this sequence (crosscourt volley ↔ down-the-line groundstroke)
• Pattern 2:
• Switch roles: Net player volleys down the line, baseline player hits crosscourt
• After several minutes, switch positions so both players practice both roles
• Variation – Half-Court Recovery
• Players may only rally on one half of the court (forehand or backhand side)
• After each shot, both players must recover to the center of their position:
• Net player → recovers to T-line center
• Baseline player → recovers to baseline center
• Repeat sequence for forehand side, then backhand side

Repetition

• Timed rounds of 2–3 minutes per sequence
• Add targets (cones) for volley placement
• Increase intensity by speeding up the rally tempo
• Progress from cooperative rally to controlled competitive points

Coaching Points

• Develops consistent volleys and groundstrokes
• Trains footwork and recovery after every shot
• Reinforces court positioning awareness
• Improves quick reactions and controlled placement
• Builds stamina and rhythm in live rally conditions

Drill Tutorial