The Lob Game

DESCRIPTION

This tennis group drill is meant for intermediate to advanced players. It is a fast-paced game that can be played by a large group of players. The players line up by the net post to the right of the feeder. One player is designated the attacker. He or she sets up on the centre line between the net and the service line. Another player is the chaser. He or she is the one at the front of the line of players at the net post.

This player runs over to the middle of the net on the other side of the court to tag the centre strap with his or her racket. After tagging, the coach, from behind the baseline, feeds a lob down the middle.

The chaser runs down the lob, after which, he or she plays the point against the attacker. If the attacker wins the point, he or she remains as the attacker. You can set a maximum number of points in a row which the attacker can win, after which he or she gets replaced. However, if the chaser wins the point, he or she must immediately run around the net opposite the line of players and assume the attacker’s role. The next player in line will now be the chaser and will do exactly the same thing that was done in the previous point. This is a fast paced game.

COACHING POINTS

Players must move the instant after points are won or lost. A lot of the action occurs while the ball is hanging in the air. Players are encouraged to do whatever they can to try to win the point against the attacker. They can practice their lobs, passing shots and dipping shots. The attacker gets to hone his or her net skills.