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Tennis: Early Return

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DESCRIPTION

Player 1 only has one serve. Player 2 is returning the ball whilst 1 metre inside the baseline or closer if the serve is short. Player 2 should be aiming for either target A or B.

COACHING POINTS

  • Returner must assume low position to return the serve.
  • Keep the head still on contact.
  • Split step at the right time.
  • Very little or no back swing (depending on the pace of the serve).

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    OFTEN USED WITH...
    Doubles returning | Serve and Return

    Doubles returning:


    -Players are positioned in a doubles formation as seen in the picture.
    -The server will serve first and second serves as in a game situation.
    -The receiver will hit any of the returns as shown in the picture.
    -The players can play out the points after the return.
    -After approximately 6-10 serves the players swop round so that each player gets to serve and return and from both sides.

    Serve and Return
    Chip and Charge | Serve and Return

    Chip and Charge:

    Player 1 only has one serve. Player 2 returns and follows it into the net to volley or smash. The server should not be allowed to lob the first shot. Player 2 should aim for either a deep return or cross court.

    Play out the points and first to seven points is the winner.

    Serve and Return
    Deep 2nd Serve | Serve and Return

    Deep 2nd Serve:

  • Place some throw down lines (TDL)2 feet inside the service line.

    • The server has to serve the ball aiming to get it between the TDL and the service line. If the serve is in the designated area and the server wins the point they score 2 points, if its short they score one point

    Serve and Return
    One serve - Under Pressure | Serve and Return

    One serve - Under Pressure:

    Player 1 has only one serve and the score is 30 - 30.

    The first player to win 3 games is the winner.

    If player 1 successfully makes the serve and wins the point they win the game.

    If not they only have 1 serve for the next point. If they win that point the game goes to sudden death.

    Serve and Return
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