DRILL TYPE: Learning to Rally
A fun game for children to develop their hitting skills.
1. Have players find a partner.
2. Player 1 starts the activity on a poly spot approximately 1 feet inside the baseline and throws the ball underhand to player 2.
3. The partner is positioned on the baseline or service line and is attempting to hit a groundstrokes.
4. Player 1 attempts to catch the groundstroke on the first bounce.
5. Players score a point for each successful throw, hit and catch combination.
6. Players change roles after 10 attempts.
Progression:
1. Players alternate between forehand and backhand.
2. Add a different scoring system to the game:
Tips:
1. Players are having trouble catching the balls, use cones.
Safety:
1. Ensure players are well spread out.
Wimbledon arrives at the end of June and the grass court swing transforms how the game is played. Low bounces, slippery footing, and rewards for forward play demand a different tactical mindset. Here is how to coach it.
With Roland Garros centre stage in May, clay court tennis demands a different toolkit: controlled sliding, longer rallies, and patient point construction. Here is how to coach the surface that humbles power players and rewards craft.
The slice backhand is experiencing a renaissance in modern tennis, valued for its ability to change pace, create approach opportunities, and neutralise powerful opponents. This guide breaks down the technique, tactical applications, and training progressions coaches need to develop this essential shot at every level.