Lob & Passing Shot Challenge

This drill trains players to handle offensive and defensive situations involving lobs and passing shots. One player begins at the net, forced to chase down lobs, while the baseline player covers the court and looks to counter with passing shots. The constant transition between offense and defense helps players build anticipation, agility, and tactical awareness in doubles and singles play.

Setup

• Player A (red) starts one meter behind the service line
• Player B (black) starts at the net
• Coach with basket of balls positioned to feed lobs
• Full singles court available

Rules & Objectives

• Coach feeds a lob over the net player (Player B)
• Player B retreats quickly to chase down the lob
• Player A covers the court, moving toward the side where the lob was played
• Player B attempts one of the following responses:
• Passing shot (down the line or crosscourt)
• Counter lob back over Player A
• Play continues until the point is won or lost
• After a set of 10 rallies, players switch roles:
• Net player becomes baseline player
• Baseline player becomes net player

Repetition

• Play 10 rallies per role, then rotate
• For variation, coach can mix feeds: deep lobs, angled lobs, or disguised balls
• Add scoring:
• Net player scores for successful retrievals and passing shots
• Baseline player scores for winning lobs or covering the pass
• Progression: remove the coach feed—have baseline player initiate with their own lob

Coaching Points

• Trains retrieving skills and footwork for defending against lobs
• Improves passing shot accuracy under pressure
• Develops court coverage awareness for both offensive and defensive roles
• Builds anticipation and tactical decision-making
• Reinforces transition between net play and baseline play

Drill Tutorial