Figure-8 Volley Rally

Develop fast hands, directional control and quick recovery in volley exchanges.

• Players2
• Time12 min
• EquipmentA few balls

Setup: Both players stand at the net, about 6-8 feet back, in diagonally opposite service boxes. Player A volleys only crosscourt; player B volleys only down the line, creating a figure-8 ball path.

1. Player A starts the rally with a soft feed crosscourt.
2. Player B volleys down the line; Player A volleys crosscourt.
3. Both players shuffle to cover the alternating forehand and backhand volleys.
4. Switch roles every 2-3 minutes; count rally length.

Coaching cues

• Racquet out in front between every ball
• Small split step each time
• Control direction with the face, not the arm

Common mistakes

• Taking a backswing as pace increases
• Standing flat-footed instead of shuffling

Progression: Move closer to the net and increase pace, or require each volley to land beyond the service line.

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