Hi everyone!

Here’s a group drill to learn how to defend effectively with a low, skidding slice when you’re late in the rally. This shot is a real weapon to break the rhythm and regain control of a tough point.

The goal is to practice using the defensive slice in a situation where you’re backing up or being pushed wide, aiming for a low, skidding, well-placed ball so you can stay in the rally despite the pressure.

How to run the drill:

• Players A, B, C and D line up at the back of the court on the deuce side.
• The ball machine is placed cross-court on the other side of the net and sends a fast cross-court ball, simulating an aggressive opponent’s shot that forces you to defend on the move.
• The first player in line (A) steps in and receives a slightly wide or driven ball that they must defend with a low, skidding cross-court slice, aiming for the defined target zone at the back of the court. The intention is to keep the ball low and avoid giving an easy attacking ball.
• After their shot, player A goes back to the end of the line. Player B steps in, ready to receive the next ball.
• The machine sends a ball roughly every 5 seconds for a smooth, rhythmic sequence.

This drill develops your ability to stay solid under pressure, defend smartly, and get back into the rally after a tough shot from your opponent.

(Image created with the ETDM software – Download it here)

Fun bonus: On the third round, each player can choose between a cross-court slice, a defensive lob or a drop shot, depending on the ball received, to learn how to vary defensive responses.

Download this drill sheet as a PDF