Be Aggressive at Net!

Strategy and tactics change dramatically once you reach the net. Back at the baseline your goal was to make as few unforced errors as possible; however, at the net your personality must change. From a timid, restraining baseline player, you must transform into an aggressive opportunist.

Developing the killer instinct for many players is difficult; some just hate to end things. They’ll play a long point from the baseline, work their way into the net, set up an easy volley winner -- and obligingly hit it right back to the waiting opponent. Walking back to baseline they wonder to themselves, "Why in the ______ didn’t I put it away? It’s frustrating. One moment you need the patience of a surgeon -- the next you could use the rashness of an alley fighter. It’s a special combination of skills that make a tennis champion.

Time is crucial at the net. In less than a split second you must react to put the ball away. Top level players develop instinctive reflexes that cover every situation. So can you.

One of the essentials of good net play is aggressive footwork. Moving forward to intercept the ball, rather than allowing it to come to you, may be the missing ingredient in your game.

First of all, position yourself so you can move quickly to either side. Spread your feet wide so you head is almost at he level of the net tape. Keep your back straight and hold your racquet directly in front of your body.

Again, the objective is to move forward. To exaggerate the idea, step in a line toward the net posts. (On the forehand volley the right-handed player steps toward the right net post with his left foot.) This is called the CROSS-OVER STEP. It will turn your shoulders perpendicular to the net and help you meet the ball in front. (on the backhand volley your right foot crosses in front of your left to make the play; step toward the left net post.)

The cross-over step should take place before the ball is contacted. During your next practice session make the step as quickly as possible. To judge your quickness, slap your foot on the court prior to the hit. Slap and hit. . . slap and hit. Hear the cadence.

Show some razzle-dazzle out there. Get prepared -- move forward with the cross-over step -- meet the ball in front - and finish the point!