Coaching Tip - September 2021

    The Backhand Volley
    Single hand

    The younger coaching pupils usually start with two hands on the Backhand volley as it gives them more stability and better racquet control in the beginning.
    Many progress to a one handed backhand volley as their tennis journey continues and it gives them more reach.

    The Backhand Volley in brief
    • Be prepared by being in the ready position with the Continental (Hammer) grip and the racquet out in front
    • expect every ball to come to you
    • Split Step as your opponent is about to hit the ball
    • Your knees should be bent to give you flexibility not a bend of the back or from the head
    • Rotate your shoulders slightly to the Backhand side using your free (top) hand on the Racquet to guide the racquet into position ready for the approaching ball
    • Move into the ball if you have time by stepping forward with your right foot for right handers or left foot for left handers
    • Your free hand should move back behind you as a counter balance
    Keep your wrist on your Racquet hand firm but flexible with the Racquet face slightly open
    • The racquet take back is short and the push or follow through is compact from low to high to impart some backspin and keep the ball low and into the court
    • The small follow through ends up with the bottom edge of the racquet pointing in the direction that you would like the ball to go
    • When the shot has been played recover back to the ready position

    The key to a good Backhand Volley is to
    • Maintain your balance
    • Keep your head still
    • Concentrate on getting more control and placement rather than power

    Get your Coach to help you with this important stroke.

    You will also need to practice the tips above during your hitting and organised practice sessions so that the Backhand Volley can become a natural part of your game plan and help you to take your game to the next level.

    Keep it Simple. Relax and let it happen

    Let me know if you can think of any other options to help you achieve a more consistent and effective physical and mental game.

    Tennis the game of a lifetime

    Contact me by Email if you have any comments or helpful Tennis hints.
    Let me know the things that work for you.

    Coach Steve
    Email steve.james@stevejamestennis.com
    Website www.stevejamestennis.com