Target practice game

Setup

1. Place a hoop or floor spot deep in each service court on the far side; cones mark the service courts.
2. Split into two teams behind the baseline, one team on each side, waiting well back from the player serving.
3. Use foam or low-bounce balls for the youngest players.

How it runs

1. Teams take turns, one serve each, alternating sides. Either a volley serve or a drop serve is fine.
2. A serve landing in the correct diagonal service court, beyond the kitchen, scores 1 point. Landing in the hoop scores 3.
3. After serving, go to the back of your team's line. Halfway through the round the teams swap sides, so everyone serves from both.
4. First team to 15 wins the round; then move the hoops.
5. Collect balls together only when the coach calls it, never while serves are going.

Coaching points

• Look at the target, then the ball, then swing.
• Swing smooth and slow, low to high, and finish pointing at the target.
• Set the feet and stand still before starting the swing.
• Cheer good serves from both teams.

Common mistakes

• Rushing the serve to get the next turn sooner.
• Serving straight ahead instead of diagonally.
• Waiting too close to the player who is serving.