5 Steps to Build Your Backhand Volley – Raw Tennis Lesson

5 Steps to Build Your Backhand Volley – Raw Tennis Lesson

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Backhand Volley Tennis Lesson: 5 Steps to Build Control, Footwork, and Placement

A solid backhand volley shouldn’t start with trying to hit hard. It should begin with control.
The backhand volley is usually harder than the forehand volley because pushing forward with the back of the hand feels less natural for most players. But once you learn the right progression, the shot becomes simple, compact, and reliable.

This five-step progression uses a racquet, tennis balls, and ideally a ball machine. The purpose is to build the feeling first, then add the proper grip, racquet position, footwork, power, and placement.

Take your time with every stage. Do not move on just because you completed a few balls. Move on when you can control the contact comfortably.

Start With the Continental Grip and the Right Feeling

The grip for this backhand volley tennis lesson is the continental grip, also called the hammer grip.
A simple way to find it is to place the palm of your dominant hand against the edge of the racquet and slide it down to the bottom of the handle. You should feel as if you could hammer a nail with the racquet.

Before hitting fed balls, practice controlling a ball with the back of your hand.
Hold the racquet with your palm facing down and your knuckles facing up. Bounce a ball upward on the strings.
This strengthens the wrist and forearm while teaching you how to control the racquet face.

For younger players or anyone who finds this difficult, choke up on the grip or even hold the racquet at the throat.
Sponge balls are also a great option because they make the exercise easier to control.

  • Start near the racquet throat if needed.
  • Keep the palm down and knuckles up.
  • Complete about 50 controlled bounces before sliding the hand lower.
  • Use a relaxed grip, not a tight squeeze.

This early drill may look basic, but it gives you the exact feeling needed later: controlling the ball with the back of the hand rather than swinging at it.

Set Up the Ball Machine for Learning, Not Survival

A ball machine is excellent for a backhand volley tennis lesson because it gives you repeatable feeds and enough time to focus on one technical detail at a time. You can also ask a partner to feed balls, but the key is consistency and a slow pace.

Place the machine about halfway between the service line and baseline.
Since you will be standing closer to the net, this position produces a manageable ball speed.
Do not make the feeds too fast when you are learning. Fast balls force rushed movements and hide technical problems.

Use at least 100 balls if possible, ideally around 120.
Set feeds every five to seven seconds. After ten balls, take a short 15 to 20 second break. This gives you time to reset, assess your technique, and avoid practicing while tired and careless.

 

Step 1: Catch the Ball on the Strings

The first fed-ball drill is not about hitting over the net.
Hold the racquet at the throat and simply catch the ball on the strings. Think of catching it with the back of your hand.

Keep the racquet face slightly open so the ball rebounds gently upward.
Your knuckles should point in the same direction as the racquet face. Do not worry about footwork, power, or placement yet. Just learn to receive the ball with a relaxed hand and a quiet racquet.

This drill removes the urge to swing.
If the ball does not go over the net, that is fine. The goal is feel and control at contact.

backhand tennis volley

Step 2: Push Gently From High to Low

For the second stage of this backhand volley tennis lesson, slide your dominant hand to the top of the grip while staying in the continental grip. Let the non-dominant hand lightly support the racquet near the strings.

Now move from catching to a gentle push.
As the ball arrives, separate the hands and push slightly from high to low. Stop the racquet immediately after contact. It is a very short motion, not a swing.

The high-to-low action begins to create a little underspin. That slice helps the ball stay low after it crosses the net, making the next shot more difficult for your opponent.

Step 3: Use the Full Racquet With a Locked Wrist

Slide your hand all the way down to the bottom of the handle.
Maintain a roughly 90-degree angle between your forearm and racquet. The grip can stay loose, but the wrist should remain firm.
A loose grip does not mean a floppy wrist.

Coach holding a tennis racquet upright with forearm and racquet forming a right angle Keep the wrist firm so the racquet face stays stable through contact.

 

When the racquet head drops, the face can open too much and produce excessive slice. Instead, keep the tip of the racquet up and the back elbow elevated, pointing generally toward the back fence.
This does two important things:

  • It keeps the racquet face only slightly open.
  • It prevents the racquet from moving too far back.

Start with the non-dominant hand supporting the racquet throat.
As the ball comes, step in and punch gently from high to low. Then stop.
A proper backhand volley has a short backswing and almost no follow-through. For more help with that compact action, try this no-backswing volley drill.

Step 4: Add the Footwork

Once the upper body is under control, add the feet.
At the net, begin in a lower ready position with the racquet head higher than it would be at the baseline. Keep your hands and elbows out in front of the body, high enough that your eyes can look just over the racquet tip.

This matters because volleys arrive quickly. If your elbows are tucked against your body, the racquet tends to travel too far back during preparation, and you will be late.

Coach in a low ready position with feet apart and racquet held in front A low stance with the racquet held out in front prepares you for faster balls at the net.

 

The sequence is simple:

  1. Split step to become balanced and ready.
  2. Step out toward the backhand side and load the outside foot.
  3. Turn only slightly, about 45 degrees, rather than turning fully sideways.
  4. Step in with the inside or dominant foot as you make contact.
  5. Punch and stop immediately after contact.

Do not turn fully sideways. That takes the racquet too far back and creates a bigger swing than the volley needs.
The shoulders should turn slightly, with the body roughly facing the net post. The racquet should begin above the eventual contact point so it can move down through the ball.

This backhand volley tennis lesson is built around the same compact principles used in a broader step-by-step volley teaching progression: racquet in front, no big backswing, and a controlled step into the ball.

Step 5: Add Power and Placement

Only after the contact and footwork are working should you add more power. Take the racquet slightly farther back, punch a little more firmly, and allow a slightly longer finish if necessary.
It is still a volley, so the motion stays compact.

At this stage, alternate targets. Hit one backhand volley down the line, then hit the next crosscourt. Continue checking the same technical elements every time:

  • Continental grip.
  • Firm wrist and stable racquet face.
  • Racquet head up and back elbow elevated.
  • Split step, step out, then step in.
  • High-to-low punch with no long follow-through.

A good backhand volley tennis lesson is not about rushing through five drills in one session. Spend as long as necessary at each stage. Once you have clean contact, add movement. Once movement is clean, add direction. Then you can make the shot stronger without losing the compact shape that makes it dependable.

For a focused solo session after learning the fundamentals, use this backhand volley punch and drop ball-machine drill. It is a great next step for developing feel, placement, and a lower ball after the bounce.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

 

What grip should I use for a backhand volley?

Use a continental or hammer grip. It helps keep the racquet face stable and makes it easier to hit both forehand and backhand volleys.

Should I use a follow-through on my backhand volley?

Keep the follow-through very short. Punch through contact from high to low, then stop the racquet instead of swinging across the body.

Why does my backhand volley have too much slice?

The racquet face may be too open, or the racquet head may be dropping. Keep the wrist firm, racquet tip up, and back elbow elevated.

Can I practice a backhand volley without a ball machine?

Yes. A partner can feed slow, consistent balls. Begin with the catch drill and progress to the push, punch, footwork, and placement stages.

 

Cosmin Miholca

Cosmin Miholca

Certified Tennis Coach

Ready to improve your tennis further?
Let’s get started!

Forehand Tennis Lesson: Learn the Stroke Solo with a Ball Machine

Forehand Tennis Lesson: Learn the Stroke Solo with a Ball Machine

by | Tennis Coaching, Tennis Training | 0 comments

 

This forehand tennis lesson is built for learning on your own, one simple piece at a time. If you are new to tennis, the forehand is the shot you hit on your dominant side, and it quickly becomes one of the main ways to control a rally.
After the serve and return, it is one of the most important shots in the game.

You do not need a partner to start building a reliable forehand. A ball machine, a racket, and ideally around 100 balls are enough. The key is not trying to hit hard from the baseline on day one. Start close to the net, slow everything down, and develop the stroke in layers: grip, contact, preparation, loop, then movement.

Give yourself 5 to 7 seconds between feeds, and take a short break after every 10 balls. Good technique needs focused repetitions, not rushed swings.

The Grip

For this forehand tennis lesson, begin with a semi-western grip. It is a practical grip for learning topspin and keeping the racket face in a useful position through contact.

Here is the easiest way to find it:

  1. Hold the racket by the throat with your non-dominant hand.
  2. Place your dominant palm flat against the strings.
  3. Slide that hand down to the handle while keeping your palm facing the same way as the strings.
  4. Gently close your hand around the grip.

The simple feeling to remember is that the racket is an extension of your hand. Your palm and strings should face the same direction. This makes it much easier to understand how the racket face sends the ball.

Racket held upright with the dominant hand on the grip

Where to Stand

Start on the service line, not the baseline. This is one of the biggest shortcuts in a beginner forehand tennis lesson. Closer to the net, you are less tempted to swing too hard, the incoming ball is slower, and you have enough time to focus on the shape of the stroke.

Place the ball machine around the opposite service line and feed slow balls that bounce just inside the service box. Stand on your service line with your feet parallel to the net. This is an open stance.

Keep the setup simple. You are not trying to cover the whole court yet. You are training your body to recognize a comfortable contact point and repeat it. If contact feels crowded or too far away, use this guide on finding the right distance to the ball before adding speed.

Contact & Follow-Through

Contact and follow-through are the heart of this forehand tennis lesson. Begin in your open stance with the semi-western grip, palm and strings facing the machine. When the ball bounces in front of you, meet it with the strings facing forward and push the ball back over the net.

Do not try to blast it. Your first job is simply to clear the net consistently.

After contact, continue the swing up and over your non-dominant shoulder. Finish with the knuckles close to your ear, the racket behind your back, and your palm facing away. This is your follow-through.

Close view of racket finishing over the non-dominant shoulderPractice this motion without a ball until it feels loose and natural. Then turn the machine on. Stay here until most balls are clearing the net comfortably.
If your forehand keeps falling into the net, these essential forehand fixes can help you correct grip, contact, balance, and net clearance.

The Pre-Stretch

Once contact and the finish feel comfortable, add the pre-stretch. Stay at the service line in the same open stance. Before swinging, take the racket back so the handle points toward the net and the tip points toward the back fence. The strings should face down.

This is the pre-stretch position. From there, pull the racket forward through contact and into the same finish. Keep the hitting arm relaxed. A tight arm makes the stroke feel forced and makes it much harder to create a smooth path to the ball.

Again, rehearse the movement without balls first. Then use slow feeds and make sure the pre-stretch does not interrupt the clean contact point you developed earlier.

Player holding racket back low with strings facing down

The Loop

Now your forehand starts to look like a complete stroke.
Begin in a ready position: semi-western grip, non-dominant hand supporting the racket throat, knees slightly bent, and weight on the balls of your feet.

Step out and load your weight onto your dominant foot while turning your shoulders sideways. The racket face points toward the side fence. From there, allow the racket to drop naturally with the strings facing down. That natural drop is the loop.

From the loop, flow into the pre-stretch, contact, and follow-through. Rotate your hips and shoulders through the shot, finishing with most of your weight on your non-dominant foot.

The important word here is flow. Do not make the loop a separate, stiff action. It should lead smoothly into the rest of the swing.

Quick Note: What You Need

A remote-controlled ball machine makes solo work much easier because you can start and stop feeds without constantly walking across the court. Loading at least 100 balls also gives you longer practice blocks with fewer interruptions.

The Pongbot Pace S Pro is the ball machine I use for this kind of controlled solo setup, with remote operation helping keep the focus on the stroke rather than resetting the machine.

 

Adding Footwork

When the stroke feels smooth from one spot, bring in the footwork.
Start in a ready position just behind the service line. Make a small hop, or split step, and land balanced on both feet.

Next, step out with your dominant foot and load onto it as you turn your hips and shoulders and take the racket back. Move a couple of steps along the service line, stop, load onto the outside foot, then make the loop and swing through the ball.

After the shot, push off the outside foot, cross over the inside foot, and shuffle back to your starting position. The sequence is:

  • Split step.
  • Move sideways.
  • Stop and load on the outside foot.
  • Loop, contact, and finish.
  • Push off, cross over, and recover.

Player moving sideways along the service line to hit a forehandWalk through this pattern without balls hitting.
Then direct the machine to feed a few steps to the side and practice getting to the ball and recovering after every shot.
Do not rush. Leave plenty of time between balls until the movement and swing start working together.

Once that feels natural, set the machine for deeper feeds.
Progress from halfway between the service line and baseline, then eventually practice from the full baseline. For more ways to structure those sessions, use these ball machine tennis drills.

Wrapping Up

A solid forehand is not built by skipping straight to power. It is built by stacking simple, repeatable pieces in the right order:

  • Grip: use the semi-western.
  • Contact and finish: meet the ball in front and finish over the non-dominant shoulder.
  • Pre-stretch: take the racket back with strings facing down.
  • Loop: let the racket drop naturally and swing through with rotation.
  • Footwork: split step, move, load, hit, and recover.

That is the foundation of this forehand tennis lesson. Build it patiently at the service line first, then earn your way back toward the baseline.
The advanced forehand comes later. Right now, clean contact, a relaxed swing, and balanced movement are more than enough.

FAQ

Can I learn a forehand with only a ball machine?

Yes. A ball machine gives you repeatable feeds, which makes it ideal for learning the grip, contact point, follow-through, and footwork without needing a partner.

Where should I begin this forehand tennis lesson?

Begin at the service line with slow feeds that bounce just inside the service box. This reduces the urge to swing too hard and gives you more time to focus on technique.

How many tennis balls should I use for solo forehand practice?

About 100 balls is a useful target. It gives you enough repetitions to develop rhythm without constantly stopping to collect balls.

When should I move back to the baseline?

Move back only after your contact, follow-through, loop, and recovery footwork feel comfortable at the service line. Progress first to halfway between the service line and baseline, then to the full baseline.

 

Cosmin Miholca

Cosmin Miholca

Certified Tennis Coach

Ready to improve your tennis further?
Let’s get started!

Group Tennis Lessons First: A Smarter Start for Beginners

Group Tennis Lessons First: A Smarter Start for Beginners

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Why Beginner Players Should Avoid Private Tennis Lessons at First

If your child is just getting started in tennis, my advice is simple: do not begin with private tennis lessons as the main training format.

I know that sounds strange, especially when parents are motivated and ready to invest in their child’s development. Sometimes parents even want daily private tennis lessons right away. But for true beginners, that is usually not the best path.

In the early stage, children benefit much more from being in a group environment where they can see other kids their age playing, learning, competing, and enjoying the sport. That social energy matters. In many cases, it matters more than one-on-one instruction.

Why group lessons are better than private tennis lessons for beginners

When children start tennis, they are not just learning strokes. They are learning what the sport feels like.

That is why a group setting is so powerful. Kids see others trying, missing, laughing, improving, and competing. They begin to understand tennis as a game, not as a technical project. That is a huge difference.

With private tennis lessons, a child can become too focused on correction from the very beginning. Every ball is evaluated. Every movement is watched. For some children, especially beginners, that can make tennis feel heavy too early.

In group lessons, the sport feels alive. Children naturally compare, copy, adjust, and get inspired by each other. They start to want the ball. They want to rally. They want to play points. That kind of motivation is hard to manufacture in a one-on-one setting.

If you are a parent trying to decide how to start, a strong formula is this:

  • At least two group lessons per week
  • One occasional private lesson to clean up technique or fix specific errors

That balance gives children the social side of learning while still getting individual attention when needed.

This same idea is explored further in this article on teaching tennis to your child, especially the importance of letting kids learn around other kids first.

What children actually need in the beginning

Beginner players do not need endless correction. They need exposure, repetition, and enjoyment.

They need to hit balls with other children. They need to struggle a little. They need to discover what is hard for them. Only then does coaching become highly meaningful.

For example, once a child has played with others, they can start to recognize real problems:

  • “I have trouble with topspin on my forehand.”
  • “I can’t keep the ball in the court.”
  • “I don’t know how to make my serve curve with slice.”
  • “My consistency breaks down during rallies.”

That is the moment when a coach can really help. Now the instruction connects to something the child has actually experienced. Instead of abstract technical advice, the lesson solves a real tennis problem.

Used that way, private tennis lessons become much more valuable. They stop being the foundation and become the support.

Why private tennis lessons can be too much, too soon

There is nothing wrong with private tennis lessons in general. They are useful. They can be excellent. But timing matters.

When a player is brand new, too much one-on-one instruction can create a few common issues:

  • Too much focus on technique before the child understands the game
  • Less social motivation because there are no peers learning alongside them
  • Less natural competition, which is a major driver of growth in kids
  • Higher pressure from constant attention and correction

Children often learn best when they can blend instruction with experimentation. They need some structure, but they also need room to feel the sport.

That is why I would rather see a beginner spend more time in group sessions and use private tennis lessons once or twice a week at most, mainly to improve specific aspects of their game.

Kids should learn tennis through play, not only through instruction

One of the biggest mistakes in junior coaching is delaying games and rallies for too long.

I believe in introducing the game concept as early as possible, even from the first lesson. Yes, technique matters. But technique is not everything. If tennis stops being fun, children lose interest fast.

So even in the first or second lesson, I like to include at least one fun game the child can go play later with friends or family. That matters because it extends the lesson beyond the court. It gives the child something simple and enjoyable that they can repeat on their own.

That games-based approach helps tennis feel like tennis from the beginning.

If this idea resonates with you, this piece on technique versus a games-based approach expands on the same philosophy.

Technique matters, but it should not dominate the early experience

Of course, children need proper fundamentals. I am not saying technique should be ignored.

I am saying it should be taught in a way that keeps the sport enjoyable.

There is a major difference between:

  • teaching technique as part of learning the game, and
  • making technique the entire experience

Beginners need enough instruction to build solid habits, but not so much that they become robotic or discouraged. A child can have decent mechanics and still need to play more. In fact, that is often exactly what they need.

Many players, myself included, developed a lot through feel. That does not mean technique is unimportant. It means players also need time to sense the ball, adapt naturally, and build coordination through actual hitting.

The goal is not perfect-looking strokes on day one. The goal is long-term development and love for the sport.

A simple 5-step methodology for developing a tennis player

When I teach, I like to follow a clear order. This progression keeps training practical and prevents players from chasing advanced skills before they are ready.

  1. Technique
  2. Consistency
  3. Placement
  4. Spin
  5. Power

1. Technique

Technique comes first because players need a workable foundation. They need basic grips, swing shapes, spacing, and movement patterns that allow them to strike the ball properly.

But this stage should not take over everything. Give the child enough structure, then let them hit and play.

2. Consistency

Once the basic mechanics are in place, the next job is learning to keep the ball in play. A player who cannot rally has no real base for development.

Consistency teaches control, focus, rhythm, and confidence. It also makes the game enjoyable, because now points and exchanges can actually happen.

3. Placement

After consistency comes the ability to direct the ball.
That means learning to hit:

  • crosscourt and down the line
  • side to side
  • deep and short

This is where tennis starts becoming more tactical. The player is no longer just surviving the rally. They are beginning to shape it.

4. Spin

Only after technique, consistency, and placement are developing well should spin become a bigger focus.

Topspin and slice are important tools, but beginners often try to add them too early without first controlling the ball. Spin works best when it is layered onto a stable foundation.

5. Power

Power comes last.

This is where many players and parents go wrong. They chase big shots too soon. But if you add power before the earlier steps are taken, the player usually loses control.

Real power should grow naturally out of clean technique, stable balance, good timing, and confidence.

Even organizations such as the USTA emphasize building fundamentals before trying to hit bigger and harder. That sequence is not flashy, but it works.

What I would tell parents who want the fastest improvement

If you are serious about your child’s progress, the answer is not more private tennis lessons right away.

The better answer is usually a better environment.

Put your child in a place where they can:

  • learn with other kids
  • see real examples at their age and level
  • compete in a low-pressure way
  • have fun while improving
  • get occasional individual correction when needed

That combination tends to create better motivation and better long-term development than a schedule built mostly around private tennis lessons.

And if enjoyment is missing, development usually does not last anyway. That is one reason so many kids lose interest early. This article on why children quit tennis goes deeper into that issue.

The best role for private tennis lessons

I am not against private tennis lessons. I just believe they should be used wisely.

For a beginner, the ideal role of a private lesson is to:

  • correct technical mistakes
  • improve a specific stroke
  • address consistency problems
  • give personalized feedback that supports what the child is already experiencing in group play

That is very different from using private coaching as the child’s entire tennis world.

When kids first fall in love with tennis through play, rallies, and social learning, then individual coaching becomes much more effective.

Final thought

If your child is new to the game, resist the temptation to over-coach too early.

Start with a group. Let them hit. Let them play. Let them see other kids enjoying tennis. Then use private tennis lessons as a tool to fine-tune technique and solve specific problems.

That path is usually healthier, more enjoyable, and more effective in the long run.

And if you want more structured coaching ideas, drills, and lesson plans, you can explore additional resources at WebTennis24.

kids tennis / serve lesson

F.A.Q.

Are private tennis lessons bad for beginners?

No. Private tennis lessons are not bad. They are just often overused too early. For beginners, group lessons usually provide a better starting point because children learn through social interaction, play, and seeing other kids their age on court.

How many group lessons should a beginner take compared with private lessons?

A practical balance is at least two group lessons for every one private lesson. Group sessions should be the main foundation, while private coaching is used to correct technique and improve specific areas.

When should a child start private tennis lessons?

A child can start private tennis lessons once they are already playing in a group environment and beginning to recognize real challenges in their game, such as forehand topspin, consistency, or serve issues. At that point, individual coaching becomes much more effective.

Should beginners focus on technique first?

Technique should come first, but not in a rigid or joyless way. The best approach is to teach basic technique while also introducing games and rallies early so the player connects the mechanics to real tennis.

What is the correct order for developing tennis skills?

A strong development sequence is: technique, consistency, placement, spin, and then power. This progression helps players build control before trying to add more advanced shot-making or pace.

 

Cosmin Miholca

Cosmin Miholca

Certified Tennis Coach

Ready to improve your tennis further?
Let’s get started!

Pickleball or Tennis: A Coach’s Perspective

Pickleball or Tennis: A Coach’s Perspective

by | Tennis Coaching, Tennis Training | 2 comments

I recently returned to Southern California after 14 years in Europe, and what I witnessed took me completely by surprise: the massive rise of pickleball as a social phenomenon.

Having coached tennis for over 20 years, my first instinct was to reconnect with old friends for a hit.

When I arrived at my favorite local courts, I saw a crowd gathered on the grass with lawn chairs, clearly waiting for something.

As I got closer, I realized the tennis courts were actually empty. The action was happening on “miniature” courts nearby. On each one, four players were engaged in fast-paced doubles. They used solid paddles and a ball that made a distinct popping sound, traveling slower through the air but requiring fast reactions.

The Appeal of the “Smaller” Game

I’ve heard of pickleball, but seeing its popularity in person was eye-opening. Players told me they loved it because it was accessible. For some, tennis had become too physically demanding due to injuries; for others, the steep learning curve of tennis was a barrier.

To me, it looked like “standing table tennis.” The movement is minimal, often just 2 or 3 steps, but the focus on hand-eye coordination is intense. It offers immediate gratification without the years of technical training tennis requires.

Can Tennis Compete?

As a coach, I see the writing on the wall. Tennis will continue to lose players to these “easier” racquet sports because modern society craves fast results and has a shorter attention span.

However, I believe tennis can thrive if it embraces evolution. To stay competitive, we must consider:

  • Implementing “no-ad” scoring.
  • One serve per point and “no-let” rules to keep the momentum.
  • Reduced match length.

While tennis is rooted in deep tradition, it must adapt to a world that is moving faster. We don’t have to lose the soul of the game to make it more accessible.

What do you think? Should tennis modernize its rules to keep up with the changing times, or should it remain a “purist” sport?

Let me know in the comments.

Cosmin Miholca

Cosmin Miholca

Certified Tennis Coach

Ready to improve your tennis further?
Let’s get started!

How to Start Tennis Coaching: Real Lessons After 23 Years

How to Start Tennis Coaching: Real Lessons After 23 Years

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What 23 Years of Tennis Coaching Actually Taught Me

If you are thinking about tennis coaching, you probably have one of two feelings. Either you are excited, but overwhelmed, or you have the skills and the passion, yet you are worried you do not “know enough” to coach.

I get that question constantly. People email me asking where to start, what it takes to become a tennis coach, and what coaches actually learn after 20 plus years on court, off court, and now online.

Here is my story and the lessons that stuck. Not the theory you find in certification manuals. The real lessons you only get by teaching, failing, adjusting, and helping different kinds of players day after day.

How It Started: “You are going to be a tennis coach”

When I was 12, my father put a racket in my hand and told me: you are going to be a tennis coach.

I did not ask what that meant. I just did what kids do when someone believes in them. Tennis became our daily routine, and my father’s teaching method was simple, even rough. No big technical explanations. Warm up a little, then play matches, again and again. Most days, we played two or three sets. Often, I was beating my brother, even though we were not being taught technique the way you would expect today.

At the time, I did not understand what my father was building. He was training competitiveness, rhythm, and confidence. He was also giving us something that looked like freedom compared to office life. He had a vision that one day we would work outside in fresh air, stay active, and teach people who wanted to learn.
In his mind, that was one of the best jobs you could have.

What I Learned About Coaching Kids: Start in groups, not privates

One of the clearest tennis coaching lessons I learned over the years is about how kids should start. Parents often think: if my child is serious, they need private lessons.

My advice is the opposite.

Do not start tennis lessons with privates.

Start in a group environment where kids see their peers competing, rallying, and enjoying tennis. Group lessons matter because kids learn faster when they feel part of something. They also become more motivated when they are not the only beginner on the court.

Here is my general guideline:

  • For every private lesson, the player should have at least two group lessons.
  • Bring them to the coach once or twice when you need specific technical corrections.

That is how you combine the best of both worlds: social learning and real feedback.

My Coaching Philosophy: Teach fun immediately, then build the fundamentals

When I teach beginners, I do not delay fun.

I like to introduce game-based learning and rallies as soon as possible. Even in the first lesson, I include at least one fun game. The goal is not to “avoid technique.” The goal is to prevent the technique from becoming boring and fragile.

Kids do not need lectures. They need experiences that make them want to repeat the movement correctly.

The 5-Step Learning Order: Technique, Consistency, Placement, Spin, Power

As a tennis coach, I developed a simple framework that helps me structure learning. It goes like this:

  1. Technique
  2. Consistency
  3. Placement
  4. Spin
  5. Power

Technique comes first because a player needs a foundation. But technique is not everything. After that, consistency is what keeps improvement alive. Then placement gives the player control. Spin adds variety and a modern tennis identity. Finally, power is built on top of the skills that already work.

Even when I was learning as a teenager, I learned a lot “by feel.” Hitting with friends taught me what it feels like to struggle. That matters. Coaching is easier when you remember what it felt like to be a beginner.

Starting a Coaching Career: I had passion, but I did not know how to coach

By the time I was 14, I was already helping friends learn. But the real “coach moment” came when I was 19.

After high school, I tried to enter a sports college and failed two times. One part of the test was a 100-meter sprint, and I was terrible at sprinting. It hurt to fail, but it forced me into a new path. I studied kinesiology, and while I waited for another attempt, I started coaching tennis.

We approached schools, got permission to announce a tennis program, and recruited kids ages 7 to 12. I had no idea how many kids would show up. I had one indoor court, and it was cold, so we played indoors. About 20 to 25 kids showed up.

My father asked me, “Do you know what you are doing?” I did not. I did something practical instead. I went to the library and borrowed two books. I studied for only a few days, focusing heavily on the first lesson.

And this is a key coaching insight:

The first lesson is the first impression. If you want tennis coaching to “stick,” make the first session fun. Do not talk too much. Do not overload beginners. Prepare two or three beginner-friendly games and let them feel successful quickly.

That experience also taught me something important. Kids will forgive a lot, as long as you respect their energy and make tennis feel safe and enjoyable.

Moving to the USA Changed Everything: Skill opens doors

After studying kinesiology, I moved to the United States. I had coaching experience, but I still did not imagine I would become a full-time tennis coach. I thought I was mainly there to train and enjoy tennis.

Then I played at local clubs, networked, and kept improving. I learned one major lesson that applies to any career:

Every person needs at least one skill they are good at.

Do not settle for “okay.” Being above average or great creates opportunities. In my case, being a strong tennis player helped me connect with wealthy and educated doubles partners. They invited me to lunches and conversations where I could listen and learn about business and life.

That is not only a tennis lesson. It is a coaching lesson too. When coaches are credible, doors open. When coaches genuinely improve players, relationships become long-term.

Certification and the “American way” of coaching

After my early opportunities, I realized I needed to coach professionally in the American way. In Romania, my background was different. Coaching often had a tough, even harsh mentality. Yelling was common. Coaches did not always behave respectfully or gently.

In the US, that approach does not work the same way. So I pursued certification. At around 27, I became certified.

Certification helped, but the biggest change still came from mentors and daily teaching experience. For me, one of the most valuable steps was this: learn by volunteering.

How to learn tennis coaching faster: volunteer and shadow great coaches

When I wanted to learn the best coaching style around me, I did not sit and wait. I went to a large tennis club and spoke to an established coach.

I asked to watch him teach and offer assistance with junior groups. I volunteered at first, and later he offered to pay me because he saw I was dependable and serious.

If you are starting in tennis coaching, volunteering is the shortcut.

  • Find the best coach in your area.
  • Ask if they need help or if you can observe.
  • Show up early, be respectful, and learn their communication style.
  • Pay attention to how they explain, demonstrate, feed balls, and manage energy.

Money is useful later. Early on, time and attention are worth more.

What truly makes a great tennis coach: people, knowledge, and adaptability

After 23 years coaching on court, off court, and online, my list of what matters most is consistent:

1) Be a people person

You can be the best technician in the world and still fail if you cannot connect with students.

  • Smile when students arrive.
  • Make them feel welcome immediately.
  • Dress well and smell nice.
  • Respect people’s time and families.
  • Avoid gossip.
  • Learn the right balance of talking. Too much is bad, too little is also bad.

People trust coaches who feel safe, respected, and organized.

2) Know your stuff, then keep studying

Read, research, and practice. Early on, you focus on explaining and demonstrating technique. Later, you teach footwork, tactics, strategy, and the mental side of tennis.

But also test what you teach. If you cannot execute a shot yourself, you will struggle to diagnose your students.

3) You do not have to be a superstar, but you should be a tennis player

Being a good player helps a lot, but it does not have to mean you are top-tier professionally. Knowing how shots feel, where they break down, and what “struggle” looks like makes you a better coach.

4) Structure your lessons and adapt to the individual

One of the biggest coaching mistakes beginners make is teaching everyone the same way and at the same pace.

Players are unique. Some kids are naturally athletic. Some have strong hand-eye coordination from other sports. Some have never played sports much at all, and they struggle simply with contact and timing.

A great tennis coaching approach adapts the method, pace, and drills. You can still follow a structured path, but you must adjust the delivery.

Why coaching became online for me (and why groups still matter)

Eventually, I moved back to Romania and built a platform to share drills and coaching structure online. Coaching one-on-one or in small groups is great, but online allows you to reach more players and coaches at scale.

I still believe in group structure, though. Even with groups, I do not like too many players. I prefer small groups, because coaching details get lost when the group is too large.

Essential tips to start with tennis coaching today

  • Start in groups, for kids, whenever possible.
  • Introduce games early so beginners feel success from day one.
  • Use a clear progression: technique, consistency, placement, spin, power.
  • Volunteer to learn by shadowing a stronger coach.
  • Do not wait until you feel prepared. You will never feel fully ready. Improvement happens on the court, with students.
  • Adapt your pace to each learner’s coordination and athletic base.

FAQ

Do I need certification to start tennis coaching?

Certification is helpful, especially if you want to coach in clubs that require it. But you can still start learning by volunteering, assisting, shadowing, and teaching informal group sessions while you pursue credentials. The key is gaining real teaching experience, not only studying.

What should I do for my first lesson with beginner kids?

Keep it fun and simple. Prepare two or three beginner games, introduce a basic rally concept quickly, and avoid overwhelming technical talk. Focus on confidence first, then build technique and consistency gradually.

Is it better to coach kids privately or in groups?

In most cases, groups work better for beginners because kids learn by seeing peers and staying motivated. A good approach is group lessons first, and then private sessions occasionally to correct specific technique issues.

How do I structure progress as a tennis coach?

Use a foundation order: technique, consistency, placement, spin, and power. Within that structure, adapt drills and pacing to the student’s coordination and athletic background.

Do I need to be an excellent tennis player to teach well?

You should be able to execute the skills you teach, and you should understand the struggle of learning. You do not need to be a top professional, but you need enough playing experience to demonstrate and troubleshoot effectively.

Closing thoughts: start anyway

If you are serious about tennis coaching, here is the truth I learned the hard way: you will never feel fully prepared. There is always more to learn.

So start with what you have. Volunteer. Teach small groups. Use games. Study and adapt. Let your students’ needs guide your coaching process.

That is how you become good. Not by waiting for confidence. By earning it, one lesson at a time.

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Cosmin Miholca

Cosmin Miholca

Certified Tennis Coach

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How to Correct the Western Tennis Grip

How to Correct the Western Tennis Grip

by | Tennis Coaching | 2 comments

How I Fixed My 9-Year-Old’s Western Tennis Grip: A Simple Coaching Guide

I noticed my daughter slipping into a western tennis grip and decided to correct it before it became a habit. Smaller kids often make contact with the ball higher, which pushes their hand under the racket and creates an overly extreme grip. The western tennis grip produces heavy topspin but can cost power, control, and a smooth transition between forehand and backhand.
I want to share the practical steps I used to reprogram her hands and a reliable practice progression you can follow.

Why the Western tennis grip becomes a problem for kids

When kids are short compared to the bounce, they naturally make contact above shoulder level. To reach that high contact point, they rotate their wrist and slide the palm underneath the handle. That change becomes a Western tennis grip.
It creates excessive topspin but often loses pace and makes grip changes awkward, especially for two-handed backhand.
The earlier you correct this, the quicker the player learns a more versatile grip.
I prefer a semi-western-ish hold on the forehand and a continental for the backhand hand placement when teaching two-handed backhands.

Understanding the handle: bevels and grips

A tennis handle has eight bevels. I use the bevels to teach exact hand placement because saying “more to the right” is vague.
Think of bevel number one as the top bevel. From there, the numbers go around the handle.

Key placements I teach:

  • Bevel 1: continental or hammer grip. Great for serves, volleys, overheads, and as the bottom hand for a two-handed backhand.
  • Bevel 2 or 3: comfortable placement for the dominant hand on the forehand. I ask kids to be on bevel 2 or 3, never 4 or 5.
  • Bevel 7 or 8: position for the non-dominant (top) hand on a two-handed backhand.

By using bevel numbers, you can be precise: a semi-western is roughly bevel 3; a full western tennis grip is more like bevel 4 or 5. That specificity speeds up correction.

Step-by-step correction drill I used

I teach this sequence in stages. The core idea is to keep the top hand fixed and only switch the bottom hand between forehand and backhand positions.

  1. Grip identification: Have the player hold the racket so bevel 1 is on top. Place the dominant hand on bevel 2 or 3 for forehand groundstroke. Show where bevels 4 and 5 are so they understand what to avoid. Name the numbers out loud.
  2. Ready position checks: Get into ready stance with the dominant hand on bevel 2 or 3 and the non-dominant on bevel 7 or 8. Open the palms slightly so the hands face each other. Repeat until it feels natural.
  3. Grip changes without hitting: From ready, perform a forehand turn by keeping the top hand still and moving only the bottom hand into the forehand prep. Then return to ready. Do the same for backhand: move only the bottom hand to bevel 1 while top hand stays on bevel 7 or 8.
  4. Shadow swings: Execute slow forehand and backhand swings while focusing on the hands. Check elbow height and weight transfer. The dominant elbow should be slightly elevated during preparation, and strings should point down a bit at ready.
  5. Tossed ball reps: Once the grip change feels consistent, have someone toss slow balls. The player should step in, keep the top hand static, and swing through with the bottom hand switching only as needed.
  6. Repetition with feedback: Watch closely and correct the bottom hand when it drifts under the handle toward a western tennis grip. Encourage dozens of short repetitions rather than long hitting sessions.

Technical points to reinforce power and control

Correcting the grip is necessary but not sufficient. Reinforce these technical elements while practicing grips:

  • Weight transfer: Start weight on the outside foot during preparation, then step through the ball.
  • Elbow position: Slightly elevated dominant elbow helps get the racket into a good swing path.
  • Strings orientation: At prep, the strings should point slightly downward so the swing travels low-to-high without forcing the wrist into a western tennis grip.
  • Cradle the racket: Use the non-dominant hand to cradle the throat when preparing – this stabilizes the top hand and prevents it from moving under the handle.

Common problems and quick fixes

Problem 1: The top hand moves under the handle and creates a western tennis grip.
Fix: Freeze the top hand during drills and only allow the bottom hand to move. Use the cue “top stays.” Add exaggerated slow-motion reps.

Problem 2: Too much topspin and lack of pace.
Fix: Move the dominant hand to bevel 2 or 3 and emphasize a full body turn and step-through. Power comes from weight and rotation as much as wrist action.

Problem 3: Grip changes are slow during rallies.
Fix: Practice rapid grip-change drills from the ready position without hitting. Make it a game: how fast can you switch and still be ready?

Final thoughts

A western tennis grip is tempting for young players because it produces visible topspin, but it can limit development if it becomes the default. By using bevels, precise cues, and a focused drill progression that keeps the top hand fixed, I corrected the habit quickly and set my daughter up for more consistent, powerful strokes.
Keep drills simple, watch the hands, and celebrate small wins. Grip habits change with repetition and patience.

tennis coaching lesson - forehand preparation

FAQ

How can I tell if my child has a western tennis grip?

Look at the dominant hand: if the palm is underneath the handle and your player contacts the ball very high with extreme wrist closure, that is a sign of a western tennis grip. Check the bevel: a full western is around bevel 4 or 5.

Is the Western tennis grip always bad?

Not always. Advanced players who generate massive topspin can use a western grip effectively. For developing players, however, it limits versatility and makes grip changes harder. I recommend semi-western (bevel 3) for most juniors.

How long does it take to change a grip habit?

It depends on frequency and focus. With daily or thrice-weekly short drills, many kids show improvement in a few weeks. Expect occasional relapses; consistent feedback and repetition are the cure.

 

Cosmin Miholca

Cosmin Miholca

Certified Tennis Coach

Ready to improve your tennis further?
Let’s get started!

Practical Tennis Coaching Tips: Grips, Footwork, Depth and Power

Practical Tennis Coaching Tips: Grips, Footwork, Depth and Power

by | Tennis Coaching | 0 comments

Tennis Coaching Q&A: Practical Answers Every Coach and Player Can Use

These clear, coach-friendly solutions focus on how to teach beginners, fix common technical issues, and build progressions that create reliable players.
Each section includes simple cues, drill ideas, and the reasoning behind common teaching choices.

Rallying with a Continental (Hammer) Grip

When working with beginners, use the continental or hammer grip while rallying. This grip produces flatter, lower-spin balls that are easier for new players to control. It reduces excessive topspin bounce that can make rallies unpredictable for students still learning timing.
Keep the swing compact. Aim to minimize spin on the ball. The goal is predictable, controllable rebounds so the student can feel consistent contact and start building rally rhythm.

Depth Control: How to Cue Short vs Deep

To teach short and deep shots, use two simple visual cues:

  • Brush up on the ball to create more topspin and shorten the landing point.
  • Swing through the ball to reach depth.

For drills, place a small portable net or a line of cones halfway between the baseline and the net. Ask players to land the ball in front of the cones for short shots and beyond them for deep shots. Repeat with emphasis on the upward or forward swing path.

Ready Position: Why the First Step Is a Step-Out

The initial action from the ready position should be a step-out toward the incoming ball while loading the outside foot. This is not just footwork – it is a unit turn that coils the shoulders and takes the racket back by body rotation rather than by arm pull.
Cue players to split, step out, and load the outside foot. Teach that the racket should go back through the torso turn. This creates a more efficient kinetic chain and cleaner timing for contact.

Loop Swing Drill: Which Way Should the Coach Hold the Racket?

When assisting a loop swing drill, orient the coach’s racket so the handle points toward the player – see the above video. For children especially, this limits an exaggerated backswing and forces a compact loop – over, under, then low-to-high.

Fixing Shanks and Improving Ball Tracking

Shanks usually happen for a few reasons: timing errors, taking eyes off the ball, poor bounce anticipation, inappropriate grip, or a small racket head that reduces forgiveness.
Corrective steps:

  • Practice drills that start the racket just behind the contact point so the player learns the correct hand and racket position first.
  • Check grip: a semi-western orientation typically presents the strings more forward and reduces frame hits compared with an extreme western grip.
  • Encourage steady eye contact up to and through contact. If necessary, use short toss drills where the student watches the ball and punches through from the contact position.
  • Try a slightly larger racket head for less advanced players to increase the margin for error.

Generating Effortless Power

Power is a product of timing, a loose arm, body rotation, leg drive, and equipment choices. Emphasize these points:

  • Relaxed arm and wrist – imagine the arm like a whip or cooked spaghetti.
  • Legs and rotation – drop, coil, then accelerate up and through.
  • String tension – lower tension adds liveliness; higher tension favors control.
  • Coachable mindset: allow “good misses” that go long rather than short. Deep misses usually mean the player stayed relaxed and aggressive.

Serve Contact Point and the Role of the Small Jump

Teach the serve contact point so it is as high as the player can comfortably reach while fully extended. As the player adds leg drive and learns knee bend, a small jump often appears naturally.
The jump should not be deliberate. It is a byproduct of pushing up from the legs to reach the highest contact point. Cue players to bend, push, and reach, and the slight lift will follow.

Open Stance Forehand and Closed Stance Backhand for Beginners

Starting the forehand in an open stance encourages hip and shoulder rotation, making the stroke more natural and powerful for beginners. For the backhand, a closed or square stance simplifies body positioning when both hands are on the racket and gives better initial control.
Teach the backhand with a step in and allow the back foot to come around during the swing to gain freedom. As players progress, both strokes can be adapted to more advanced stances.

Teaching Progression: Technique to Power

A practical development sequence is: Technique → Consistency → Placement → Spin → Power. Technique first, then build the ability to repeat it. Once a player can consistently rally, work on placing the ball purposefully. Spin comes next, and finally introduce power once control is reliable.

Contact-First Teaching Philosophy

Start many beginner drills from the contact point plus follow-through. Have the student push the ball from the contact position to feel grip, racket face, and finish. This accelerates understanding of where the ball meets the strings and teaches a relaxed, long finish that shows fluid technique.

Volley Set Position: Preventing the Drop

Young players often drop the racket head because they cannot hold the wrist angle. Teach a locked wrist with roughly a 90-degree angle between the forearm and racket. A useful progression:

  • Choke up on the racket neck so the movement arm is shorter and wrist control is easier.
  • Practice short reps to hold the 90-degree angle and punch through the ball.
  • Gradually slide the hand down the grip as strength and stability improve.

Backhand Half-Volley: How to Introduce It

The half-volley is timing-intensive. Teach it later, after basic volleys and footwork are solid. For the backhand half-volley, start with a two-handed half-volley to give stability. Once timing and racket control are present, remove the non-dominant hand and work toward the one-handed version.

tennis questions and answers

FAQs

When rallying with beginners using a continental grip, can you still produce topspin or are you limited to blocks and slices?
Using a continental grip as a coach produces flatter, lower-spin balls that are easier for beginners to manage. It is possible to create a little topspin with a compact swing, but the main benefit is control and predictability while building basic feel.

What is the most effective cue for controlling shot depth in short-to-deep drills?
Tell players to brush up for shorter, higher-bouncing shots and to swing through for deeper, penetrating shots. Use a visual target like a small net or line of cones halfway to the net to help players internalize the difference.

Why teach a step-out from the ready position rather than just rotating the shoulders?
The step-out loads the outside foot and creates a unit turn. The racket is taken back by body rotation, not arm movement. This produces cleaner timing, better power generation, and safer mechanics.

How do I stop players from shanking the ball with the frame?
Start with drills from the contact point, check grip orientation (avoid extreme western if causing frame hits), increase racket head size if needed, and emphasize steady eye contact to improve timing and sweet spot consistency.

Should players visualize serve placement or focus on racket face and technique?
Both matter, but placement is largely built through repetition and feel. Encourage players to look at the target, serve, then adjust based on where the ball lands. Technical tweaks come later once feel is established.

How should I introduce volleys to young players who keep dropping the racket head?
Have them choke up on the racket neck to shorten the lever and practice holding a 90-degree forearm-to-racket angle. Gradually slide the hand down the grip as wrist strength and control improve.

 

Cosmin Miholca

Cosmin Miholca

Certified Tennis Coach

Ready to improve your tennis further?
Let’s get started!