Topspin and slice dinks

Setup

1. Pairs at the kitchen line, diagonally opposite for crosscourt work.
2. A second pair can use the other diagonal on the same court.

How it runs

1. Round 1, three minutes: topspin dinks only. Brush up the back of the ball from below it so it rises gently over the net, dips and bounces forward.
2. Round 2, three minutes: slice dinks only. Open the paddle face slightly and move it high to low under the ball so it floats over and skids on landing.
3. Round 3: mix them. Before each dink, the hitter says 'top' or 'slice' quietly; the partner watches the paddle and calls what they see as early as they can.
4. Round 4: a crosscourt rally where either player may change to down the line with either spin. Play it out as a dink-only point to 7.

Coaching points

• Topspin dinks want a little more net clearance; the spin brings the ball down into the kitchen.
• Slice dinks want a lower, flatter flight. Keep the face only slightly open or the ball floats up.
• Use the legs and shoulders, not a flick of the wrist. The paddle path stays short and smooth.
• Take topspin dinks out in front; slice dinks can be taken a touch later and to the side.
• When receiving topspin, keep the paddle face a little closed so the kick doesn't pop the ball up. When receiving slice, get low and lift it gently.
• A dink that lands near the kitchen line with topspin pushes the opponent back on their heels; a short slice draws them forward.

Common mistakes

• Rolling over the top of the ball with the wrist and dumping it into the net.
• Chopping down hard on the slice so the ball lands outside the kitchen.
• Changing the grip between spins. One continental-style grip handles both.
• Watching the ball only, not the opponent's paddle, so every spin is a surprise.