This Sportplan Session looks at developing your players ability to hit the half-volley and gain a tactical understanding of when and how to play the stroke.
Half-volley technique
The half-volley is often played low to the floor, so agility and good foot movement is fundamentals of correct technique. It is also important to be able to hit the shot gently because players are usually close to the net, moving toward it, or the ball is close to their ankles.
Control and accuracy, whether at the net or mid-court, are a top priority when playing the shot. This plan will develop your players' net skills and ability to hit non-point winning shots.Gaining a better tactical knowledge
The game awareness of when to play the shot is equally important as developing your players' technique when he/she hits the stroke.
Players should also understand the role of the half-volley and tactical possibilities of this stroke, which is often used by professional players to prepare the point and not as a point winning shot. It is important the coach, as well as developing accuracy and technique, explains to their players they must have the proper mindset when preparing to hit half-volleys to avoid unforced mistakes and to become more successful at the net.
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