The transition from defence to the net is the moment when rallies tip. Run too early and you get caught with a ball at your feet. Go too late and you waste the advantage of a good Lob.
The right moment
1If your Lob goes over the net players and they have to go back, both of you run forward at the same time.
2Do a split step on the way when your opponent hits the ball.
3Stop when a ball comes, play it calmly and then keep moving up.
4If you cannot get all the way to the net, take the ball from mid-court rather than volleying in a rush.
A Lob over the opponents, A and B move up to the net together.Your pairOpponentsBallMovementBounce
Together, not alone
Always run forward as a pair. If only one of you goes, the diagonal opens up and your opponent exploits it right away.
Common mistakes
Running through without a split step: a ball at your feet catches you mid-movement.
Running forward after a short Lob that is easy to smash.
Going forward alone.
Drill: Lob, stop, forward
The back pair plays a Lob and moves up.
The coach immediately plays a low ball to the feet.
The pair does the split step, plays the ball back calmly and keeps moving up.
Frequently asked questions
When should I stay at the back?
When your Lob was too short. Then it is better to wait at the back for the next ball.
How far forward do I go?
Up to the net position, about 2 to 3 metres from the net.
