Lobs and Overheads - Smash it

Aim: To improve the overhead smash and footwork.

How: The overhead smash should be a point winning shot if hit effectively with a combination of placement and power.

A player starts in line with the net on one side of the court. They then side step to the middle of the net, touch it with their racket, at which point an opposing player hits a lob to about half court. The player at the net has to shuffle back and attempt an overhead smash. After hitting this shot the player must move back into the net touch it again with their racket, as another ball is hit up by the opposing player. Another overhead smash is attempted.

Swap roles and repeat the drill.

Progressions:

The opposing player can hit the ball further back into the court or into the corners to make it harder for the player to hit the overhead smash.
The opposing player can try and return the overhead smash and begin a rally. This will make the player think about placement and power of the overhead smash so it cannot be returned.

Coaching Points: