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Tennis: Fence Controls The Swing

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Andrea, Tennis coach

DESCRIPTION

The player starts by standing close to the fence, with the coach throwing the ball to the backhand side. The player then executes a backhand volley back to the coach, with the fence preventing the player from taking too big a backswing.

COACHING POINTS

Taking too big a backswing is a common mistake made by junior players, and also by typical baseline players. They try to add extra power by taking the racquet back but they forget that the ball will be coming at them with more than enough speed, so all they need is control. A short movement of the racquet guarantees consistency so players have to learn how to control their backswing.

This drill helps the player work on shortening their backswing. The player stands close to the fence so that it is an obstacle that prevents the player from taking the racquet back as they will simply hit the fence if they do.

PROGRESSION

At the beginning of the drill, the coach will throw the ball to the player and catch it. As the drill progresses, incorporate this into a rally.

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OFTEN USED WITH...

Short Move:

The player starts by standing close to the net. The coach feeds balls to the backhand side, with the player hitting backhand volleys in return, emphasis on using short movement of the racquet. The net prevents the player from taking any follow through, so they learn to use a short movement.

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Touch The Spot:

Set up with a cone or something similar just in front of the player. The coach feeds the ball to the backhand side, and the player hits a backhand volley to the coach, and steps on the visual target.

Backhand Drills

Volleys Forehand/Backhand:

Closing volley at the net using forehand and backhand.

Coach feeds the ball underarm from the centre service line close to the net, for the player to play alternate forehand and backhand volleys.

Players volleys are to be returned short and sharp over the net.

Feed 6 balls then rotate.

Volley Drills

Stable Wrist:

The player inserts a ball between the grip of the racquet and their wrist. While the ball is in place, a player or coach hits balls to the player who hits backhand volleys back, with the wrist in the correct position, assisted by the ball.

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