Activity 39: Side to side challenge

Activity summary

Players hit the ball against alternating side walls, aiming to land it in front of them mid-court with a bounce. Improves racket control, accuracy, and precision positioning off wall rebounds.

Activity setup

  • Done individually, with racket and ball suited to ability.
  • Player stands centrally between the two side walls.

What to do:

  • Drop the ball and hit it to one side wall, aiming to have it bounce back in front of you.
  • Hit the return to the opposite side wall, alternating walls (forehand then backhand) to keep the rally going.

Activity video

Watch this video to see the session in action.

Coaching Tips

  • Track the ball so impact aligns roughly with front foot.
  • Transfer weight through each shot, alternating right/left foot and forehand/backhand.
  • Follow through straight and recoil racket ready for next shot.
  • Control height and pace for consistency.

Make it easier

  • Practice hitting off a single wall, aiming to have it bounce in front of you.

Make it harder

  • Challenge to complete 20 repetitions.
  • Add a flat marker target on court or targets on walls to hit a set number of times.
  • Progress to volleying without letting the ball bounce.

Safety

Use the STEP framework—Space, Time, Equipment, and People—to adapt any activity to your players.

Always ensure enough space to participate safely and that under-18s wear protective goggles.

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