Imaginary Game Challenge

This drill helps beginners build serve consistency by simulating a real game against an imaginary opponent. Players focus on landing serves in the box, keeping score as if they were playing a match. It’s an effective solo activity that allows players to practice without a partner and is especially useful when they can’t engage in full-court play, such as during injury recovery.

Setup

• One player with a basket of balls
• Standard singles or doubles court
• Divide service boxes for optional advanced variations

Rules & Objectives

• Player begins a “service game” by serving from one side of the court
• A point is won if the serve lands in the service box
• The imaginary opponent scores a point only on a double fault
• Player keeps score as in a regular game (15–0, 30–0, etc.)
• Continue serving until one side “wins the game
• ”Switch sides and repeat

Repetition

• Play multiple service games for practice, aiming to hold “serve” consistently
• Add directional control: require serves to specific halves of the box (wide or body)
• Use targets (cones) for accuracy
• Track percentage of serves made in for self-assessment

Coaching Points

• Builds serve consistency and rhythm
• Reinforces mental focus under match-like conditions
• Encourages self-accountability with scoring
• Teaches players to practice alone effectively
• Develops accuracy as players progress to directional serving

Drill Tutorial