Five-Shot Serve & Volley Sequence

This drill is designed for semi-private lessons and helps players practice the classic serve-and-volley strategy in a controlled, repeatable sequence. By simulating the first five shots of a point—serve, return, volley, return, and finishing volley—players gain confidence moving forward, handling returns, and finishing at the net. It’s a structured way to sharpen attacking skills and footwork for both singles and doubles play.

Setup

• Two players: one server (red) and one returner (black)
• Standard singles court
• Basket of balls for consistent serving
• Drill begins with second serves only

Rules & Objectives

• Server hits a second serve into the service box
• Returner returns the serve into play
• Server immediately moves forward and hits a first volley (third shot)
• Returner plays a fourth shot back toward the server
• Server finishes the sequence with a second volley (fifth shot)
• After completing the sequence, both players reset to starting positions
• Perform 10 serves from the deuce side, then switch to 10 serves from the ad side

Repetition

• Require the server to hit into designated areas of the service box (wide, body, T)
• Add volley placement rules: first volley must be deep, second volley must be angled short
• For variety, allow the returner to change return direction after a few rounds
• Track how many volleys the server controls successfully to add competitive pressure

Coaching Points

• Builds confidence in the serve-and-volley tactic
• Reinforces timing, footwork, and split steps when approaching the net
• Improves volley placement under pressure
• Gives returners practice in handling second serves and passing shots
• Simulates match-like point sequences in a structured way

Drill Tutorial