Do Some Damage with Your Volleys
by: Dave Winship @ On The Line

Okay, let's start with the technique - it won't take long - then we'll move on to the really important stuff.

First, try and use a grip that's right between the standard eastern "shake-hands" forehand grip and an eastern (palm-on-top) backhand grip. People refer to it as the continental grip - just pick up the racket like you're going to chop wood with it, then spread your fingers a bit. You can use this grip for forehand and backhand volleys.

Turn your shoulders at right angles to the net. Your elbow should be slightly bent and then kept at that angle throughout the shot. Good players volley from the shoulder, not the elbow - and certainly not the wrist! Setting the racket slightly above the ball and aiming for contact out in front of your body, drive down and through the ball with a short, firm block/swing, maintaining a slightly open racket face right through the contact in order to impart some slice. Rolling the racket face produces unpredictable results, so it's important that you try to keep your wrist perfectly steady. Using slice also keeps the ball low, making it difficult for your opponent to pass you.

On your backhand volley, your non-racket arm should drive back as a counterbalance. This helps to keep your shoulders sideways, preventing the natural tendency of the body to rotate around during contact.

When you're at the net, there are more spaces to aim for. Hit the biggest space, or look for wrong-footing opportunities (playing the ball back behind your opponent) - if he's on his butt, he isn't going to hurt you!

When it comes down to it, successful volleying has a lot to do with your attitude. You've got to be positive about it. Shrug off the odd dud and resolve to put the next one away. To paraphrase Mohammed Ali, the player that beats you when you play your net game is fast, he's smart, he's got incredible passing shots and lobs . . . and he hasn't been born yet!

Regards.

Dave Winship