Lobs vs. Overheads

This drill simulates real point situations where players must use lobs to escape pressure or finish points with overheads. By assigning one player to practice lobs exclusively and the other to practice overhead smashes, both learn to execute under realistic, competitive conditions. It’s a fun way to sharpen offensive and defensive skills at the same time.

Setup

• One player at the baseline
• One player inside the service box (center position)
• Coach or feeder with a basket of balls (optional)
• Full court available

Rules & Objectives

• The baseline player can only win points with lobs
• The service-box player can only win points with overhead smashes
• A coach may feed balls to start, or rallies can begin with a lob from the baseline player
• Play out competitive points under these conditions
• After an agreed number of points (e.g., first to 11) or after 5 minutes, switch roles

Repetition

• Variation: After each overhead, the net player must touch the net before hitting the next shot
• Variation: Baseline player must hit lobs that land deep in the backcourt (lobs into the service box count as errors)
• Increase duration or scoring targets as players improve consistency

Coaching Points

• Improves lob accuracy and depth under pressure
• Strengthens overhead technique and net positioning
• Simulates real match scenarios between defensive and attacking styles
• Develops decision-making and stamina for both offensive and defensive play

Drill Tutorial