SliceIntermediate
Develop the touch and disguise needed for an effective drop shot.
- Players2
- Time10 min
- EquipmentBasket of balls, 4 cones
Setup: Use cones to mark a target zone from the net to about 6 feet back. Feeder stands at the opposite baseline.
- Feeder hits a medium-paced ball landing near the player's service line.
- Player prepares exactly like a slice, then hits a soft drop shot into the zone.
- Player follows the ball forward to cover the reply.
- Rotate after 10 balls; score the ones landing in the zone.
Coaching cues
- Same preparation as your slice
- Soft hands and an open face
- Follow it in
Common mistakes
- Hitting from behind the baseline
- Too much pace, so the ball lands deep
Progression: Play points where the drop shot is allowed only off a short ball.
Coach's note: Drop shots work from inside the court. From behind the baseline the ball has too far to travel.