Large Group Baseline vs. Net Drill

This drill is designed for large groups and combines baseline consistency with net play pressure. Players compete in singles-style points with rotating roles, practicing passing shots from the baseline and volleys at the net. The format ensures constant engagement, clear winners and losers, and balanced practice for both offensive and defensive positions.

Setup

• Divide players into two teams
• Team 1 lines up behind the baseline
• Team 2 lines up behind the service line, with the first player starting at the T
• The first player at the T-line has a ball to begin the rally

Rules & Objectives

• The net player feeds an underhand ball to the baseline player and immediately advances to the net
• A competitive point is played with normal rules, except no lobs are allowed
• After the point:
• The losing player returns to the back of their team’s line
• The winning player stays on the court and continues against the next challenger
• The sequence repeats with the next baseline and net players rotating in
• Switch roles after several minutes so all players practice both baseline and net play

Repetition

• Continue for 5–10 minutes per side before switching
• Emphasize quick rotations to keep players active
• Vary feeds (deeper or wider) to challenge the baseline player’s positioning

Coaching Points

• Baseline players learn to take the ball early and reduce opponent reaction time
• Net players practice split-step timing and quick volley reactions
• Encourages competitive point play in a group format
• Provides balanced practice of passing shots and volley finishing

Drill Tutorial