This is a simple but effective drill for practicing the overhead in a realistic situation. No gimmicks: it builds solid fundamentals so players stop missing the high balls that can turn a match.

The objective of this drill is to master backward movement and contact timing on a lob, allowing players to hit overheads with consistency and power.

How to Run the Drill:

• One player takes position at the net. The coach stands on the opposite side with a ball basket, ready to feed a series of lobs. The other players wait behind the baseline for their turn.
• The net player starts ready, with knees bent and the racket in front. The coach sends a lob high enough to allow time to react while still forcing the player backward. As soon as the coach hits the ball, the player quickly begins the retreat, moves into position under the ball, and hits the overhead while moving slightly forward through contact to remain aggressive.
• Emphasize recovery positioning: move back quickly, stop, then hit the overhead. Do not hit an uncontrolled overhead while still moving backward.
• After each overhead, the player immediately returns to the net to prepare for the next ball.

Each player completes a series of 6 to 8 overheads, then gives up the spot to the next player.

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