What is a Volley?
The simplest way to describe a volley is to strike the ball before it touches the ground. By its definition, the volley is simple, in terms of execution – it can be very challenging. Let’s dig a little deeper into the Volley and see what the Pro’s have to say.
Pro Tip #1 – Forehand Topspin Volley
Our 1st ProTip is from Coach Simone. She emphasizes the essentials of a Forehand Topspin Volley. To execute this shot, maintain an athletic stance at the NVZ line, meaning your knees are bent, hips are forward, your paddle stays out in front of the body, your chest is leaning forward, your head is up and you have a semi-western grip.
Step 2 is to drop the paddle head down below the net and under the ball- keeping the paddle in front of the body.
Step 3 is to follow through to the finish over your shoulder
Try to aim deep instead of hitting quick
Pro Tip #2 – Controlling the Volley
Coach Jordan Briones from Primetime Pickleball discusses various ways to keep the Volley in control at all times. Most unforced errors happen due to excessive power at the net. Coach Jordan reveals a few good strategies to keep the ball in control.
Meet the ball with your paddle out-in front and have a paddle face that doesn’t change – meaning keeping your paddle angle consistent.
Keep the stroke compact with very little backswing. Do not Swing using the entire arm.
Don’t swing at a volley! Your Volley shot should either be a push or a block shot.
Tip #3 – Maintain Periphery View
Coach Tyson McGuffin emphasizes keeping your paddle always in your periphery view.
An easy way to remember this is to imagine you are giving someone a high-five.
There is no need to overswing or use your wrist, focus on the shoulder doing all the work.
Shot placement is more important than power.
Maintain an even and controlled tempo and keep your composure – less is more when it comes to this shot.
Tip #4 – Grip Pressure
Coach Sarah Ansboury stresses the importance of being aware of your grip and how tight your hold your paddle. She emphasizes that touch consists of using your fingers rather than the palm of your hand. To generate speed and “pop”, Sarah grips the paddle firmly so it is stable when she makes contact, on the other hand, when she wants to deaden a drive or absorb the pace of the ball she will relax her grip. Find your rhythm and be patient to create an opening
Tip #5 – Balance
When you do too much, errors happen – especially at the net. If you swing your paddle too much while executing a volley, chances are you have generated too much speed or pace causing the ball to fly out-of-bounds. Coach Scott Moore comments on how to execute a good consistent volley while keeping your balance. Point the tip of the paddle at the ball to track the ball. For a good forehand volley, turn your body to the right – if you are right-handed, point your left shoulder toward a target. Allow the ball to come to the paddle, and then punch it towards the target. Freeze your paddle in place for just a moment just after the moment of contact and try to avoid swinging your paddle across your body because this will pull you off-balance and not be ready for the return ball.
Practice Reminders
As you practice your volley keep these few things in mind:
- Maintain an athletic position by monitoring your head, shoulders, chest, and feet.
- Take note of your paddle position. Are you keeping the paddle in front of your body? Are your shoulders relaxed and are you keeping your arms away from your sides?
- Most unforced errors are committed due to excessive power – stay calm monitor your grip strength and concentrate on pushing or blocking.
- Maintain your balance, tempo, composure and rhythm. Allow the ball to come to you and direct you shot toward a target using your shoulders.
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One response to “5 Key Volley PRO TIPS”
[…] Volley attacks from Non-Volley Zone. Seize control of a game with this vital component, the punch volley. By mastering this technique, you’ll improve your ability to react quickly and apply pressure […]
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