The Third-Shot Drop Shot In my last tip, I explained why you want to rush to the non-volley-zone (NVZ) line: you are able to cover the court with far less movement. Other reasons are the additional power afforded to hard shots by the shorter distance, being able to target spots close to the net with more accuracy and ease, and the quick response time needed by your opponents to return your net volleys. (Of course, you need good reflexes to hit theirs, too.)
If you are serving, your team is at a disadvantage from the start. One of your opponents is already at the NVZ line, and the opponent receiving your serve will likely hit a long, relatively slow return shot that will provide enough time for them to rush to the net. You can't do anything about that, because you and your partner must remain in the back court to let the ball bounce (because of the "double-bounce" rule).
Assuming your opponent returns the ball deep to center court, your best shot would be one that will give your team time to rush the net safely. Most players and coaches recommend you make a drop shot (some call this a dink) just over the net into the NVZ. This is a tough shot, as those who deliver the ball too far back in the court or into the net will tell you. This is considered the best shot, however, because 1) your opponents are already at the net, or they're on the way; 2) it is slower and softer, and because it drops in the NVZ, your opponents must let the ball bounce, allowing you time to get to your NVZ; and 3) it has a higher percentage of success than a hard shot against opponents who are ready to volley the ball back.
Discuss this tactic ahead of time, so your partner will know when to move with you. If your shot goes too deep, and you can't get to the NVZ in time, you and your partner must STOP and assume the ready position the moment your opponent hits the ball. Make sure your feet are shoulder-width apart and your paddle points toward the ball. You won't be in a good position, but you'll be ready to make the best of whatever comes your way.
If you are serving, your team is at a disadvantage from the start. One of your opponents is already at the NVZ line, and the opponent receiving your serve will likely hit a long, relatively slow return shot that will provide enough time for them to rush to the net. You can't do anything about that, because you and your partner must remain in the back court to let the ball bounce (because of the "double-bounce" rule).
Assuming your opponent returns the ball deep to center court, your best shot would be one that will give your team time to rush the net safely. Most players and coaches recommend you make a drop shot (some call this a dink) just over the net into the NVZ. This is a tough shot, as those who deliver the ball too far back in the court or into the net will tell you. This is considered the best shot, however, because 1) your opponents are already at the net, or they're on the way; 2) it is slower and softer, and because it drops in the NVZ, your opponents must let the ball bounce, allowing you time to get to your NVZ; and 3) it has a higher percentage of success than a hard shot against opponents who are ready to volley the ball back.
Discuss this tactic ahead of time, so your partner will know when to move with you. If your shot goes too deep, and you can't get to the NVZ in time, you and your partner must STOP and assume the ready position the moment your opponent hits the ball. Make sure your feet are shoulder-width apart and your paddle points toward the ball. You won't be in a good position, but you'll be ready to make the best of whatever comes your way.
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