Activity summary
This drill focuses on accuracy: players drop the ball, gently tap it up under control, and aim to land it on their own flat target, using both forehand and backhand.
Activity setup
- Individual activity; each player has a racket, a ball, and a flat marker (tape or throw-down circle).
- Players space themselves evenly on the court.
What to do:
- Drop the ball and gently hit underneath so it lifts, letting it bounce once between each tap.
- Aim to land the ball on your flat marker as many times as possible.
- Practice on both forehand and backhand sides.
Activity video
Watch this video to see the session in action.
Coaching Tips
- Relax your grip and use an open racket face to lift under the ball.
- Follow through high to keep the ball straight and allow recovery time.
- Step into the lunge with knee aligned over foot; bend knees and hips to get under the ball.
- Engage your core for stability and maintain a comfortable distance from the ball.
- Track the ball and adjust racket face for a clean tap-up on the strings’ center.
Make it easier
- Use a sponge ball and focus on control over the target.
- Make the marker larger with tape or catch the ball after the bounce before retapping.
- Allow hitting against a wall for feedback on height and direction.
Make it harder
- Alternate between forehand and backhand taps on each shot.
- Set timed challenges or races to a number of successful hits.
Safety
Use the STEP framework—Space, Time, Equipment, and People—to adapt difficulty.
Ensure players have enough space, and under-18s wear protective goggles.