Return plus one

Setup

1. Server on one baseline, returner on the other.
2. Four cones mark a deep middle zone past the server's service line.

How it runs

1. Server serves to either box; two serves as normal.
2. Returner aims deep through the middle zone.
3. On the next ball, the returner attacks a corner and the point is played out.
4. A return into the zone scores 1; winning the point scores 1 more.
5. 10 serves, then swap roles.

Coaching points

• Split-step as the server hits, then a short, compact swing.
• Deep and central takes away the server's angles.
• Recover to the middle after the return, then step in for the plus-one.
• Pick the corner by where the server is, not where they were.

Common mistakes

• Going for a winner off the return and missing.
• Admiring the return and getting stuck behind the baseline.
• Plus-one hit back to the server.