A phrase I use often with the folks that I coach is “Feel the Game”. That is an easy phrase that flows off the tongue but it is hard to learn. What serve will get a weak return? Where is the weakest area of the court for my opponent? Where can I put them with my shots that will result in the least damage from them? How do I keep them off balance?
One way to learn this skill of “feeling the game” is to practice it. Script out ten serves and put them on a wrist band like quarterbacks do in football. No matter what happens execute the serves in order. Try this script:
Drive serve to opponent’s backhand (DSBH)
Drive serve to opponent’s forehand (DSFH)
Drive z-serve opponent’s backhand (DZSBH)
DSBH
DSBH
DZSBH
DSFH (from same z serve position)
DSFH(from same z serve position)
DSBH
DSFH
One thing I did not add was where the serves should come from. (In other words, move around in the box!) Make it up and have some fun! Oh and report back on how it went please!