How to Approach the Net

December 1999

Many preventable accidents occur because of the careless net rusher. The sorriest victim is the guy who momentarily loses his head, lobs, and rushes the net. Such tactical errors can be dangerous to one's physical well being. A prudent suggestion is to read the following ten safety precautions regarding approach shots.

1. Before deciding to follow your serve into net, make sure it is strong enough so you'll feel secure as you run in behind it.
2. Avoid serving to the forehand and coming in, especially on the deuce court where the right hander has a good angle to pass you; if you must, try it on the ad court, but sparingly.
3. Be selective when approaching the net. Make sure you are well inside the baseline when contacting the ball. At the beginning levels of play only come in when forced to (when it is impossible for you to retreat to the baseline). As you improve the main consideration is that you get close enough to the net following the approach shot so you can make an effective first volley.
4. Regard the approach shot as a means of transportation ­ it paves your way into the net. The objective is to place your opponent on the defensive so you'll have a good opportunity to subsequently put the ball away. It is a means to an end. Don't over-hit the ball trying for a winner.
5. Hit the ball at the top of its bounce. Bevel the racquet face back and use underspin; it will give you more time to reach the net ­ plus it produces a low bounce, which forces your opponent to hit the ball up. Take a short backswing, turn sideways, and stroke through the ball.
6. Follow the flight of the ball to the net. This will help position yourself so you can cover the opponent's widest two possible returns.
7. Stop your forward momentum before your opponent contacts the ball. Take into consideration the depth of your approach shot. If your approach shot is deep, stop short near the service line, anticipating a lob. If you hit a shallow, move forward and look for the passing shot. Stop with both feet at the same time ­ like a hopscotch step.
8. Hit your approach shot deep, preferably to your opponent's weakest side. Sacrifice pace for placement.
9. Generally, hit your approach shot down the line. This makes it easier to get in position for the volley. Only approach crosscourt for an occasional surprise.
10. A short ball is an invitation to the net; you do not have to accept. If your opponent possesses an uncanny lob, or a penetrating passing shot, use your discretion ­ refuse his invitation ­ stay back and wait him out.

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