Deep return and move to the kitchen

Setup

1. A server behind one baseline, a returner a step behind the other baseline in the diagonal service court.
2. Place a cone on the returner's kitchen line as the finishing spot.
3. With four players, the extra two wait by the net post and swap in after each set.

How it runs

1. The server hits a steady serve. The returner lets it bounce, then lifts the return high, slow and deep towards the server's baseline.
2. Straight after contact, the returner walks forward and stops in a ready position just behind the kitchen line by the cone.
3. The server lets the return bounce, then plays a soft ball to the returner, who blocks it back. Stop and reset.
4. Eight returns, then swap roles.

Coaching points

• Start a step behind the baseline; moving forward into the ball is easier than backing up.
• Use a long, smooth swing and give the return height; a slow, deep ball buys time to get forward.
• Keep walking after contact, then make a small split-step, landing on both feet, as the server swings.
• Arrive with the paddle up and the toes behind the kitchen line, never on it.

Common mistakes

• Watching the return from the baseline instead of moving.
• Hitting the return hard and short, which leaves no time to get in.
• Running through the line into the kitchen.
• Volleying the serve before it bounces.