Relish

Serve Returns (2nd Shot)

Give yourself space to see the bounce, then send an easy forehand back over the net. For your first practice, ask your partner to serve gently toward your forehand.

Let the serve bounce. Make a controlled return. Then move forward as you can.

Builds your control

  1. 1

    Start with room behind the baseline

    Begin near or a little behind the baseline in the diagonal receiving court. Adjust to the server so a deep ball does not crowd you. Face the server with your paddle ready.

  2. 2

    Wait for the bounce

    The serve must bounce before you return it. For this practice, use a short forehand motion and aim well inside the opposite court.

  3. 3

    Move forward after returning

    The returner can move toward the kitchen line after hitting the return. Move under control and get balanced before the next shot. Your partner can start near the kitchen line.

Keep the first target simple

Your return can land anywhere in the opponents’ court. Start with a broad target near the middle. As you become consistent, a deeper return can give you more time to move up.

Receiving and serving are different jobs

The serving team must let your return bounce. That gives you an opportunity to come forward. It does not mean you should rush so much that you lose your balance.

A few things you might wonder

Do I always have to hit a forehand?

No. We are using gentle forehand feeds to build a foundation. In a game, a backhand may be the more practical shot.

Do I have to reach the kitchen in one go?

No. Move as far as you can under control, then be ready when the opponent hits. Footwork develops with practice.