Volleys

I was practicing a couple of weeks ago with my doubles partner (Sean) and was up at the net hitting volleys. My forehand volley was a shot I tended to think about a little too much when playing because unforced errors and lack luster put-aways were cropping up too much during match play: when I received an up ball on a poach I would pop it up too much or hit the net (that's the worst). The solution was easy--I was putting too much slice on the shot (too much "work" on the ball); better to hit through the ball clean and finish through the ball. Remember this tip: when the ball is above the net-- stick it and step "as" you hit the ball; if the ball is below the net step "first" then put a little slice for control. Both of these volleys start with the same wrist position the only difference is the "follow-through:" slice is down slightly with a firm wrist postion and flat is foward with an extension of the forearm straight ahead--also with a firm wrist.

First weekend in February will be our Mixed Doubles Tournament. You will get your tournament play, a mixed tennis social, with a player reception all just for $35.00. Hell I spend that just on Bagels and coffee each week. There's a lot of energy at the club right now riding on the coat tails of the singles tournament. Don't miss this one.

Doubles Positioning

How close am I supposed to get to the net? I feel like I'm out of position. I'm not sure where to go. My partner says get to the net yet we get lobbed like crazy so we can't get in; plus when we go to the service line I feel like I'm out of position. Get used to the service line. Read that line three more times. Practice half volleys, low volleys, mid-volleys, high volleys, and overheads right there. There are no members of the club that have the speed to cover a good lob when positioned six feet from the net. That is a tour play! Let the game come to you; hold that service line and you control the center of the court. Close the net and finish when the ball is up. Hold the line when challenged. Practice your mid court transition game. I then get other questions like: What do I do when my partner closes but doesn't put the ball away? I answer, "That is really aggravating. Get a better partner!" Seriously though, be ready to cover their back by holding the service line. That way you have covered their failed put-away. What if the other team closes the net and puts away our shots. I would then say, "Try to get in closer to the net to beat them to the punch." The team that controls the net usually wins the match. Hey, my partner only comes to the net to shake hands at the end of the match. You will need to work on your poaching and have your partner hit great low passing shots and incredible lobs when forced.

Good luck!,

Kevin Pease