Here are 6 common return of serve issues I run into with my athletes at all levels!
First, I see some new coaches posting some tips out there that are almost correct. I have to say almost correct because every athlete is different. To make them all the same can backfire. All footwork is different depending upon the athlete you are working with and the circumstances on the court. With that said, below are some examples of general rules.
1. Wrong stance-Bent at the waist too long–you will have to make a move to make a move
2. Too wide of a stance-remnant of 1980’s coaching-wide stance may work for tall athletes but not short ones-also with a wide stance one has to pivot on the leg to the side the ball goes. With a shorter stance the athlete can move either way effectively. (Think of it this way-does a cat need a wide stance to pounce?)
3. Being able to hit a return when you get to the ball-big one-if you drop your racquet to get to the ball how can you hit an effective return cross court? Your opponent will camp left and feast on the return!
4. Watching the server’s motion, not the ball! Do not look at the advertising, look for the product (the ball) as it crosses the short line!
5. React and read! Get moving in a relaxed manner and read where the ball is going! (see cat comment #2)
6. Lining up too far back or too far up. (I probably should have put this one first!)
These six are by no means all of the errors but common ones I see with the tons of matches I watch.