Crosscourt Setup into Open Court

This drill isolates the passing shot pattern by forcing the baseline player to react quickly to volleys and then place the ball into the open court. By alternating between down-the-line and crosscourt passing shots, players develop accuracy, timing, and tactical awareness when attacking an opponent at the net. The exercise also builds endurance as the sequence is repeated continuously until fatigue sets in.

Setup

• One player at the net on the deuce side
• One player at the baseline on the ad side
• Basket of balls with the net player to feed
• Singles court setup

Rules & Objectives

• Net player feeds the first ball to the baseline player
• Baseline player returns it back to the net player
• Net player volleys crosscourt
• Baseline player runs to the ball and hits a passing shot down the line into the open court
• Net player remains in position (does not chase the passing shot)
• Repeat the sequence continuously until the baseline player fatigues
• Switch roles after the sequence is complete
• Variation – Ad Side Pattern
• Start with the baseline player on the deuce side and the net player on the ad side
• Net player volleys down the line
• Baseline player hits a crosscourt passing shot
• Repeat alternating between sides, focusing on precision and footwork

Repetition

• Run 10–12 passing attempts before switching roles
• Add scoring: 1 point for each passing shot that lands cleanly in the target zone
• Vary volley placement (shorter, deeper, wider) to challenge baseline player’s reactions
• Progression: require baseline player to alternate between forehand and backhand passes

Coaching Points

• Trains down-the-line and crosscourt passing accuracy
• Builds quick reactions and footwork against volleys
• Reinforces decision-making when choosing passing direction
• Improves endurance and consistency under pressure
• Sharpens offensive mindset for breaking down net players

Drill Tutorial