Basic Net Rush

by Kathy K
(USA)

Basic Net Rush Drill

Players line up behind the center mark. A coach or ball machine feeds a short forehand. The player whose turn it is, returns the short forehand down the line to the backhand corner. This approach shot should be hit on the run. It may be hit with underspin or topspin, but topspin is easier for beginners on most surfaces.

The player follows his approach shot up the same side of the court, about halfway between the center line and singles sideline.

As the coach returns the approach shot, the player stutter steps into a split step, which enables him to push off to intercept the return. The coach returns down the line.

The player hits his first volley back down the line to the same corner to open up the court for his next shot. Now the player continues forward, positioning a little to the down-the-line side of the center line.

The coach returns down the line again.

This time the player angles his volley crosscourt into the open area for a winner.

Note: Occasionally, the player may be close enough to the net to go for a winner on the first volley, but he shouldn't do so unless he is in the front third of the forecourt already.