Four-Ball Approach and Rally Drill

This drill develops movement, approach shots, and transition play by combining deep and short feeds. The sequence trains players to hit both down-the-line and crosscourt shots while staying active. Shadowing and ball-retrieval variations keep larger groups engaged and minimize downtime.

Setup

• Coach stands in the service box with a basket of balls
• One player starts at the baseline
• Additional players can shadow the sequence or retrieve balls

Rules & Objectives

• Coach feeds the first ball deep down the line
• Player hits an approach shot crosscourt
• Player recovers back to the baseline
• Coach feeds a second ball wide
• Player hits a groundstroke down the line
• Player moves forward again to hit the next approach shot crosscourt
• Sequence repeats for each player in rotation
• Shadow players copy the same movements without hitting a ball
• Extra players collect balls during the drill

Repetition

• Rotate after 3–4 sequences per player
• Add variations:
• Alternate starting side (forehand/backhand)
• Change approach targets between down-the-line and crosscourt
• Add a volley after the final approach shot

Coaching Points

• Improves approach shot accuracy
• Builds footwork and recovery between baseline and net
• Reinforces shot variation with both down-the-line and crosscourt targets
• Keeps multiple players active with shadowing and ball collection

Drill Tutorial