An advanced partner drill designed to simulate attacking a high, weak feed (akin to a poor return or a pop-up), with the net player simultaneously working on neutralizing the aggressive attack and defending their position.
Equipment
- Pickleball paddles
- Pickleballs
- Pickleball court
How to run it
Player 1 (the Net Player) positions themselves at the Non-Volley Zone (NVZ). Player 2 (the Baseline Player) starts at or near the baseline. The Net Player initiates the drill by feeding a high, easily attackable ball to the Baseline Player, simulating a weak return or popped-up shot. The Baseline Player steps in to aggressively drive this ball (similar to an offensive third shot drive), aiming to keep the shot low and challenging. The Net Player then focuses on neutralizing this attack, attempting to volley the ball down towards the Baseline Player's feet to keep them back and regain control of the point. After the initial feed and drive, the ball is live, and the point is played out, typically confined to one half of the court (either straight on or crosscourt). Players usually play games to 11 points and then switch roles.
Coach Dave’s cues
Baseline Player: Maintain an aggressive mindset, looking to win the point with the initial drive or subsequent shots. Net Player: Prioritize neutralizing the first aggressive shot effectively, then work to construct the point. Vary the placement of shots during the live ball play (straight on, crosscourt to the even side, crosscourt to the odd side) to enhance realism.
Watch for
Baseline Player: Overhitting the aggressive drive, resulting in an unforced error out of bounds. Net Player: Popping up the block or neutralizing volley, giving the opponent another attackable ball. Both Players: Failing to play out the point with sound tactical awareness after the initial scripted exchange, or not maintaining intensity.