Hi!
Here’s a group drill designed to reproduce a realistic match situation: having to hit a passing shot at full stretch after a series of lateral movements. Here, reactivity, balance and clarity of decision-making are key.
The goal is to develop the ability to hit a precise cross-court or down-the-line passing shot after intense lateral movement, while maintaining technical control and tactical awareness.
How to run the drill:
Players A, B, C and D line up behind the baseline, and in front of them the coach (on the other side of the net) has a basket of balls.
Four cones are used as targets: 2 in the diagonal (cross-court) and 2 in the alley (down the line).
Player A steps onto the court and starts the drill.
- The coach feeds a first ball slightly wide to the forehand side.
- Player A hits this ball in rhythm (without rushing) to start their movement.
- Immediately after, a second, faster ball is sent cross-court to the backhand side (simulating an opponent’s attacking shot).
- A must then move laterally at full stretch and hit a winning passing shot, either cross-court or down the line, depending on their reading of the situation.
After the passing shot, A goes to the back of the line, B steps in right away, and so on for the other players.
This skill helps you steal points in wide defensive positions, especially against aggressive players who come to the net after a cross-court attack. It’s a key weapon to counter their strategy.
(Image created with the ETDM software – Download it here)
Pro tip: At full stretch, shorten your swing and use your body weight to generate power rather than relying only on your arm.
Download this drill sheet in PDF format
