Two-on-One Passing & Volley Challenge

This drill pits one baseline player against two net players, forcing the baseline player to develop passing shot precision while sharpening the net players’ reflex volleys. It emphasizes footwork, anticipation, and smart shot selection for the baseline player, while requiring the net team to work together with positioning and controlled volleys. It’s an excellent drill for intermediate players learning to adapt to pressure situations and sharpen both offensive and defensive doubles skills.

Setup

• One baseline player on the singles side of the court
• Two net players positioned side by side at the net
• Coach stands at the net with a basket of balls to feed
• Optional fourth player collects balls at the side for efficiency

Rules & Objectives

• Coach feeds 10 balls in a row to the baseline player
• Baseline player attempts to hit passing shots against the net team
• If the baseline player goes down the line, the net player responds with a crosscourt volley
• If the baseline player goes crosscourt, the net player responds with a down-the-line volley
• After 10 feeds, players progress into scoring mode:Play to 7 or 11 points
• Net players must cover the doubles court
• Baseline player is restricted to the singles court
• After each game, rotate roles so every player experiences baseline and net positions

Repetition

• Start with 10-ball sequences for practice without scoring
• Add scoring games to increase intensity
• Progress by increasing the pace or unpredictability of the coach’s feeds
• Rotate players frequently to balance workload and skill development

Coaching Points

• Baseline player develops passing shots under pressure
• Net players build quick reactions, coordination, and volley placement
• Improves anticipation and adaptability in live point situations
• Teaches doubles teamwork while giving singles players exposure to net pressure
• Provides a game-like challenge to raise intensity for intermediates

Drill Tutorial