Figure 8 (crosscourt, down-the-line)

Type: Singles Category: Groundstrokes/strategy and tactics

Levels: Intermediate/adv. Time/players: 15 minutes/1-6

Description and goals:

This drill emphasizes shot selection, court coverage and footwork. The goal is to have players recognize the results of their shot selection and how to cover the court.

Organization:

Place a cone on each side of the court in line with the alley and near the baseline. One is in the forehand corner and the other in the backhand corner. Player A feeds ball down the line (and then recovers to center of court) to player B, who hits a backhand crosscourt (and then recovers to center of court). Player A then hits backhand down the line, moves around the cone and goes to the back of the line. Player B then hits a forehand crosscourt and moves around the cone and goes to the back of the line. Players C and D rotate in and repeat the steps. Switch so other side is hitting crosscourt. Variations: Have players rotate from only one side while leaving the player on the other side by him/herself.

Key points:

Players must have cooperative mindset in order to keep the rally going. Focus on proper footwork for recovery and court coverage.