Crosscourt-to-Line Volley Technique Drill

This drill helps players practice proper volleying form while working on directional control. By starting with a cooperative feed, then moving into crosscourt and down-the-line volleys, players refine footwork, positioning, and technique. It emphasizes forward momentum, balance, and split-step timing to execute put-away volleys effectively.

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 target zones crosscourt and down the line

Rules & Objectives

• Coach feeds a ball directly to the first player in line
• Player volleys back to the coach
• Coach feeds the next ball crosscourt
• Player moves forward and volleys the ball down the line
• Player exits, and the next player in line steps in to repeat the sequence
• Drill can be run on both forehand and backhand sides

Repetition

• Run through the rotation until all players have completed several rounds
• Add scoring: 1 point for hitting target zones
• Increase feed pace for quicker reactions
• Progress to live rallies with alternating crosscourt/down-the-line targets

Coaching Points

• Reinforces volley fundamentals: split step, balance, weight forward
• Builds directional control with crosscourt and down-the-line volleys
• Improves footwork and forward movement
• Develops confidence in finishing points at the net

Drill Tutorial