Coaching Tips
Take the Ball at the Top of its Bounce
Modern tennis is all about power and attack! One of the keys to maintaining an attacking attitude in tennis is court position. By hitting most of your shots on or inside the baseline you increase the aggression of your shots exponentially, to maintain this court position you need to hit the ball at or near the top of its bounce.
Firstly consider the junior and adult intermediate matches you observe, many of these players will stand well behind the baseline - hoping it will give them more time to react. The result is many dull baseline rallies with the players basically waiting for their opponent to make an error.
By standing up on the baseline and taking the ball at the top of its bounce you will automatically force your opponent to make more errors. Lets consider the benefits of taking the ball early:-
- The opponents recovery time is shortened, they have less time to move back to the middle of the court and prepare for their shot.
- By taking the ball closer to the net and in a higher position you can hit with greater angle into the opponents court.
- You are in a better position from which to attack the net if an easier shot comes your way.
All these factors combine to increase the pressure on your opponent and instead of hoping to win the point due to your opponents unforced error (which will never come against a good player) you are taking a more proactive approach.
Andre Agassi was a superb example of taking the ball at the top of its bounce. Recently Roger Federer has also demonstrated how important court position is - dominating rivals like Lleyton Hewiit and Andy Roddick who retreat to well behind the baseline.
Taking the ball at the top of its bounce is a difficult skill to master - remember by moving forwards you are rushing yourself as well. Big backswings are unnecessary when moving forwards and "timing" should be the key to meeting the ball. Quick and precise footwork is also critical - as you need to be balanced and set up to execute your stroke.
During your practice sessions and drills try taking the ball at the top of its bounce, and ask your coach for extra advice on how to master the skill. Your results will surprise you if you can consistently move forwards to play your shots.
This months coaching tip is bought to you by Global Sports Coaching.
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