Tennis Game: Moving Up & Down

How the game works

Tactical Purpose

Teach players to move up to the net, then work together when a lob is happening.

Setup

The players are lined up as follows: A and C are at the baseline, deuce and opposite sides; B and D are the net players (opposite sides), ad side – see graphic above.
The coach (F) is on the same side and close to player C, having a basket of balls ready to feed from.

Game

On the “Go!”, the coach will feed a ball to player A (cross-court); at the same time, player C will move up to the net (inside the service court).

Player A’s first return should be cross-court toward the approaching player (C). C will execute a half or low volley back to A.
Player A’s second shot will be a lob over the opposing net players (C and D).

From there on, the point is played out.

After every 3 points, the players rotate one spot clockwise.

Notes

• For the first two shots, players B and D do not intervene.
• The coach should point out players’ positioning, communication, and shot selection.

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