Catch-and-throw rally

Setup

1. Pairs face each other across the net, each inside a service box.
2. No rackets yet: one red ball per pair.

How it runs

1. Throw the ball underarm over the net so it bounces in your partner's box.
2. The partner lets it bounce once, then catches it at waist height and throws it back.
3. Count catches in a row. The ball may only bounce once.
4. Next round, catch on the side of the body after turning, like a forehand.
5. Then catch on the other side, like a backhand. Swap partners and beat your record.

Coaching points

• Start in ready position: feet apart, knees bent, hands in front.
• Move the feet to get beside the ball, don't reach for it.
• Wait for the ball to bounce and start coming down, then catch.
• Throw from low to high, like the swing of a forehand.

Common mistakes

• Catching before the bounce or after two bounces.
• Standing still and reaching with the arms.
• Throwing hard and flat into the net.