Team Serve & Run Challenge

This fast-paced serving drill builds accuracy, endurance, and focus while adding a fun, competitive element. Players must land serves in the service box to score points, but the challenge is increased by requiring them to sprint around the net to collect their next ball. This combination of cardio, precision, and pressure makes it an excellent drill for both juniors and adults.

Setup

• Two teams of two players (Team 1: Players 1 & 2, Team 2: Players 3 & 4)
• Each team starts with one ball
• A ball cart is placed at the baseline on the opposite side of the court
• Standard service boxes are used as targets

Rules & Objectives

• Player 1 serves from the baseline, aiming to land the ball in the service box
• After serving, Player 1 must run around the net, go to the ball cart on the opposite baseline, collect one ball, and return
• Only balls taken from the cart may be used—players may not pick up stray balls from the ground
• The next player on the team serves, repeating the same sequence
• Teams earn points only when a serve lands in the service box
• Continue until one team reaches the designated number of successful serves (e.g., 10 or 15)

Repetition

• Require first serves only to train power and accuracy, or second serves only to build consistency
• Add the condition that the second bounce must land beyond the baseline to prevent soft tap-ins
• Increase difficulty by requiring serves to specific sides (deuce or ad court)
• Extend the game with longer sprints (e.g., retrieving balls from further back)

Coaching Points

• Improves serve accuracy under fatigue
• Builds cardiovascular endurance and recovery speed
• Reinforces serving under pressure with limited opportunities
• Adds variety and fun to serve practice, keeping players motivated
• Suitable for kids, juniors, and adults

Drill Tutorial