🥅Tennis Volley & Net Play Lessons

Good volleys are about simplicity. The racquet barely swings: you set it early, keep the head above your wrist and move your feet through the ball. Most club players overswing at the net, so the first goal is doing less.

If you are just starting, learn the continental grip and short blocking volleys from close range. The beginner lessons below include simple drills you can do with a partner. As you improve, focus on footwork into the volley, handling hard-hit balls, and using your body rather than your arm to create depth.

Getting to the net in a good position matters as much as the volley itself, so this page also includes approach-shot lessons: when to come in, where to hit the approach and how to close the net behind it. Doubles players will find specific volley and poaching tips here as well, and the overhead smash has its own page for finishing points once you are at the net.