Rally to Approach Shot Drill

This drill teaches players when and how to transition from a baseline rally into an attacking position at the net. By starting with cooperative crosscourt rallies, players focus on depth and consistency before turning short balls into opportunities. It emphasizes recognizing short balls, executing approach shots, and finishing points at the net.

Setup

• Two players positioned crosscourt at the baseline
• Cones (optional) to mark the service line and back half of the court
• Tennis balls

Rules & Objectives

• Players rally cooperatively crosscourt, aiming to keep the ball deep past the service line
• If a ball lands short in the service box, the receiver must treat it as an approach opportunity
• That player hits an approach shot and moves forward to the net
• From there, both players play out the point competitively
• After the point ends, return to the crosscourt rally setup and repeat

Repetition

• Continue for 10–15 minutes, alternating sides
• Add scoring: 1 point for winning an approach-point rally
• Progress to live rallies (not cooperative) where players intentionally mix in short balls

Coaching Points

• Improves recognition of short balls and transition play
• Develops approach shot technique and net positioning
• Builds consistency and depth in crosscourt rallies
• Reinforces point construction: rally → short ball → approach → finish

Drill Tutorial