Tennis Hacks: Change Up Your “Live Ball” Practice Routine

One of the most widely played live ball practice games is commonly called "Sweeper." It's essentially a singles rally game started with a neutral feed from the baseline. Sweeper is a staple game of junior practice sessions everywhere, and a fun way to build a solid foundation for point construction.

It's a bit unrealistic, however, for the more advanced levels where few points start from neutral. Actual play starts with a serve and return. One player usually has an advantage in this exchange, and is therefore attacking or defending.

Try a modified game of Sweeper with one player at a disadvantage standing on the sideline, or with the receiver of the feed permitted to go for a winner on the first ball with an inside-out forehand. This is a realistic way of adapting to handling the fast pace of today's power game.

 

Centercourt
USTA NTC

January/February 2024 Digital Edition