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This volley/overhead drill is perfect for every level of player because that is the area that most (if not all) players need to work on. And if you can master proper footwork on your strokes, you can master your strokes.
In our video, one of Riviera Tennis Center’s High-Performance Coaches demonstrates the proper footwork for volleys and overheads with a simple shadow drill that all levels can perform. A great thing about this drill is that you don’t even need a court. You can also do it at home in your driveway or wherever you have the room.
Do the “shadow” version first, where you move and react to a pretend ball. Once you have the movements down, have a hitting partner feed you balls in the same pattern. Train your body to move for these shots and you’ll be ready for them in a live match.
Breakdown of the Volley/Overhead Shadow Drill:
- Split Step
- Angle Step Forward : Forehand Volley
- Split Step
- Angle Step Forward : Backhand Volley
- Side Shuffle Back : Scissor Kick Overhead
We suggest using disc cones and hurdles for this drill, as they provide excellent visuals for proper movement.