Second Serve & Directional Return Pattern

This drill helps players practice handling second serves while reinforcing consistent return placement patterns. By focusing on both serve accuracy and directional returns, players develop better rhythm, footwork, and anticipation. The drill emphasizes confidence on second serves and tactical awareness on returns, making it a great exercise for juniors or anyone learning structured serve-and-return play.

Setup

• Two players: one server (red) and one returner (black)
• Standard singles court with clear service boxes
• Optional target cones for placement goals
• Basket of balls for consistent serving

Rules & Objectives

• Server hits 10 second serves into the deuce court
• Returner follows this directional return pattern:First ball: down the lineSecond ball: down the lineThird ball: crosscourtRepeat this sequence for all 10 serves
• Switch to the ad court: server hits 10 second serves
• Returner follows the same down-the-line / crosscourt return sequence
• After 20 total serves, players switch roles

Repetition

• Expect the server to land at least 16–17 out of 20 serves in the box for consistency
• Add target cones for both server and returner to increase precision
• Variation: restrict the server to one half of the service box (wide or body)
• Variation: returner hits all returns with the forehand (inside-out on ad side for right-handers)
• Keep score for how many returns hit the designated target areas

Coaching Points

• Builds reliable second serves under controlled pressure
• Improves returner’s directional control and consistency
• Reinforces tactical patterns for return placement
• Trains servers to hit with accuracy to specific halves of the service box
• Encourages players to strengthen weaker sides (e.g., forcing forehand returns)

Drill Tutorial