Jorge Capestany - TennisDrills TV

Half Volleys

The half volley is a shot that many players fear. Multitudes of player debate if they should serve-and-volley in doubles simply because they fear this shot and want to avoid it all costs. The result is they often end up playing a strategically flawed match simply because they have not learned to execute this shot.

The key to success on the half volley is understanding the difference between this shot and most others. The half volley should be hit with a rising shoulder socket, whereas most groundstrokes are hit with a rotating shoulder socket.

This video shows the difference between these two techniques and the importance of not lumping the half volley in with all other groundstrokes. By using this lifting or rising motion, the strings stay aimed at the target for a longer period of time and thus increases the likelihood of making solid contact.

A very effective way to learn to hit better half volleys is by actually feeding a bunch of half volleys. When a player is allowed to feed the ball from their hand and try to hit half volley, it removes the fear associated with the shot and allows their body to get the feel for the shot.

One sure way to struggle with this shot is by trying to hit it too hard vs. trying to “bump” or “push” the ball back. For the most part, these shots do not require a lot of power.

I have also found it helpful for my players to try to reduce the size of their backswing on this shot as well. Taking the racket back too far will impart too much power on the shot and also makes the timing more difficult.

Practice this skill by feeding a ball up against a wall several times and learn to add this important shot to your arsenal.

Jorge Capestany - TennisDrills TV

Jorge is the Founder of www.tennisdrills.tv - a video based website that shows more than 700 videos of tennis drills and tips. Jorge is one of only nine people world-wide that is a Master Professional with both the USPTA and PTR. Jorge is a 6-time Michigan Pro of the Year a 2-time Midwest Pro of the Year. Jorge has coached hundreds of ranked juniors including 3 national champions.