Net Player vs. Baseline Rally

This drill focuses on improving volleys through dynamic rallies between one net player and two baseline players. The net player practices moving side to side, aiming volleys into the corners, while the baseline players work on consistency and controlled returns. It’s an excellent exercise for building volley precision, agility, and endurance while giving all players experience rotating between baseline and net roles.

Setup

• Two players positioned on the baseline (one in deuce court, one in ad court)
• One player positioned at the service line (net player)
• A basket of balls for consistent feeds
• Full half-court or doubles court available

Rules & Objectives

• One baseline player feeds the ball to start the rally
• The net player volleys into the corners, alternating placement
• Baseline players keep the rally alive by returning shots back to the net player
• Net player should move continuously side to side, using proper footwork to reach each shot
• Continue the rally for 5–10 minutes
• Rotate clockwise so each player has a turn as the net player

Repetition

• Emphasize controlled pace—volleys should be accurate rather than overly powerful
• Net player alternates placement between corners without falling into a predictable left-right rhythm
• Increase difficulty by speeding up the pace of baseline returns
• Add target cones in the corners for the net player to aim at

Coaching Points

• Net player: improves footwork, anticipation, and volley placement
• Baseline players: develop consistency and directional control
• All players: build endurance and agility while practicing tactical shot variety
• Reinforces fundamentals of controlled volleys under movement

Drill Tutorial