Implementing Serve and Volley

[vin]

I'm trying to work serve and volley into my game and I'm trying to figure out the best times to use it. I'm not interested in being a full time serve and volley player, but an all court player that uses it from time to time. Here's what I have:

It's a good tactic against someone who doesn't pass well (can't handle pressure) or return well.

It's a good tactic to regain lost momentum (discouraging the opponent).

I know there's also certain scores where it's best to apply pressure, which S&V is perfect for, but I have to look more into that. (It's in the 'Coaching Tennis' book)

What else?

It's also a good way to surprise your opponent and instill worry in them on their proceding returns, but when do you throw in the 'surprise'? A certain score? Randomly?

 

[loubapache]

Sorry, posted in the wrong thread.

---------------

 

[Bungalo Bill]

I'm trying to work serve and volley into my game and I'm trying to figure out the best times to use it. I'm not interested in being a full time serve and volley player, but an all court player that uses it from time to time. Here's what I have:

It's a good tactic against someone who doesn't pass well (can't handle pressure) or return well.

It's a good tactic to regain lost momentum (discouraging the opponent).

I know there's also certain scores where it's best to apply pressure, which S&V is perfect for, but I have to look more into that. (It's in the 'Coaching Tennis' book)

What else?

It's also a good way to surprise your opponent and instill worry in them on their proceding returns, but when do you throw in the 'surprise'? A certain score? Randomly?

One way you can use the serve and volley is when you think you want to serve down the middle - go. This puts you in a very good position and reduces the angles your opponent has to reply with.

Make sure you practice your sprints.

 

[jun]

I think serve into the body can be a good set up for the serve-volley. Most people serve wide, down the middle, or even into the contact zone, so people are not used to getting out of the way and making the contact.

As far as at which point you should implement depends on returner. If returner seems to get on your serve pretty easily, it wouldn't be a good idea to come in regularly. But if s/he likes to float the return, then you should come in behind to put even more pressure.

At least in my theory, timing of serve-volley depends on how comfortable you can execute it. If I am going toe to toe with another guy, i would only come in if I am comfortably up in the game. Or if I am down luv- 30, 15-30.
I would never ever serve-volley on my breakpoint, unless I am getting hammered by the other guy, and I see no sign of victory. I always prefer sticking to my best shot on a crucial point, which is my forehand.

If my serve-volley was my best game, then i would come in all the time, although frequence of execution would be controlled.

If my serve-volley was pretty bad, I would only come in behind if I am up 4-luv in the set.

 

[sinoslav]

OK, here's a different idea: I use S & V to control my own level of adrenaline. You know that idea that we perform best at a midway level of adrenaline? Too little and we're sluggish, too much and we're inconsistent. I find that suddenly playing S&V for a point or two when I've been sticking to the baseline, it gives me a shot of adrenaline, so I'll use it when I'm playing sluggish.

 

[ucd_ace]

To give advice I'd need more information about your game. What's your typical style and your best shots? What's the strength of your serve and your volleyes? If you're going to develop a strategy to use S&V tactics these things are really important to how and when you'll want to implement it. The most important question is probably how athletic you are. So, I think if you go into that more I and others can give you better advice.

 

[vin]

The most important question is probably how athletic you are.

Well, I'm not sure how to measure my athleticism, but I'd say it's good. I'm fit, strong, and fast. I also have good balance.

What's your typical style?

In the past, I've played most of my tennis from the baseline, but have come to realize that I let points go on for way too long. This becomes very obvious against counter punchers and retrievers. But I am starting to take charge of the point as soon as I can. Basically, I am now trying to get to the net as fast as I can under favorable conditions. I like to use forcing groundstrokes to get myself to the net and set myself up for easier volleys.

and your best shots?

Serve and forehand.

What's the strength of your serve and your volleyes?

My serve is the best part of my game. I have first serve that is usually reliable and powerful. I hit it with either moderate topspin or slice depending on placement. I also have an ok kick serve, but it's not as reliable as it needs to be for a second serve. Sometimes I use it for my first as well.

My volleys are pretty solid, but lack the experience of my groundstrokes. I can hit solid volleys and have a good feel for them. I seem to have a natural ability for hitting touch volleys as well. And I can usually pull off an ok half volley. I would not say my net game is a strength on it's own, but it's good enough to finish off a point after setting my self up well with a good forcing shot.

 

[drakulie]

Agree with Bungalo Bill. Serving down the T is a good way to start to learn the serve and volley game if you are learning during matches. Also, when you are ahead in the set or far ahead in a game, and you feel you could receive a easy floater.

Somebody also mentioned utilizing the serve into the body. I am comfortable enough with my S & V game to hit this serve when I am down 0-30, 15-40, etc.

Just remember, the more you get to the net the better you will become. You will not become worse.

Good Luck

 

[Bungalo Bill]

Just remember, the more you get to the net the better you will become. You will not become worse.

Good Luck

Very true and if the opponent does get one by you, come in again and again.

 

[Serve-And-Volley]

What helps me is having a good strong fast serve with placement. I will come to the net off 4 serves usually : a slice that pulls my opponet off the court, a kick that thoughs off my opponet's shot, a down the line so I have time to get to the net for a winner, and a body serve to get a weak shot that I can put away. Being fairly experienced I can say this: be ready to hit on the rise in no-mans land when and opponet has a great return of serve. Another tip on second serves don't go to the net right off, or use an approach right off, hit a few groundstrokes with authority and then go to the net. Keep your opponet guessing. For me I like to throw in lots of serve and volley at any score, but I'm comfortable with my baseline game too. And one more caution have a good smash overhead you will need it... alot

 

[Bungalo Bill]

What helps me is having a good strong fast serve with placement. I will come to the net off 4 serves usually : a slice that pulls my opponet off the court, a kick that thoughs off my opponet's shot, a down the line so I have time to get to the net for a winner, and a body serve to get a weak shot that I can put away. Being fairly experienced I can say this: be ready to hit on the rise in no-mans land when and opponet has a great return of serve. Another tip on second serves don't go to the net right off, or use an approach right off, hit a few groundstrokes with authority and then go to the net. Keep your opponet guessing. For me I like to throw in lots of serve and volley at any score, but I'm comfortable with my baseline game too. And one more caution have a good smash overhead you will need it... alot

Sounds great! Spoken from a true S&V! Good all around game plan and approach to your style.

 

[Marius_Hancu]

I'd say work on some aggressive approach shots, flat or even slice (chip) on FH, slice on BH, and you will be able to come more frequently at the net to shorten the points. Nowadays, people defend quite well against topspin on hardcouts, esp with lobs, thus work on your smashes too.

Also, approach on the center for a change, many people react better when they are a little bit on the run and you give them an angle.

 

[vin]

I'd say work on some aggressive approach shots, flat or even slice (chip) on FH, slice on BH, and you will be able to come more frequently at the net to shorten the points. Nowadays, people defend quite well against topspin on hardcouts, esp with lobs, thus work on your smashes too.

Also, approach on the center for a change, many people react better when they are a little bit on the run and you give them an angle.

That's exactly what I've been doing recently - coming to the net sooner.

I don't like the risk of trying to hit outright winners from the baseline.

I'm not good at grinding out long points when I have to deal with varying pace and ball height. And I absolutely HATE losing points due to being tentative and just trying to keep the ball in play. Staying on the baseline often pulls me into that against defensive players.

I'm not a natural talent at the net and don't have the all or nothing mentality to be a full time net rusher. I like groundstrokes too much anyway.

What's left? Follow my aggressive groundstrokes to the net AS SOON as I have the right opportunity. The key here is that my groundstroke or approach shot is what really wins me the point by giving me an easier volley. I think that's just right for me. I don't have to blast a groundstroke as hard as I can with perfect placement to get it by the opponent. I just have to hit it hard enough and place it well enough to get a manageable volley. As my net game improves, maybe I'll be able to expand the strategy a bit and take bigger chances getting to the net if I feel that I need to.

As for the approach shot, I know slice is the standard, but I have better results with topspin and power as long as the ball is at a reasonable height. If it's around my knees or lower, I'll hit a slice. As I develop a better slice approach, maybe I'll mix it up and do both depending on the opponent.

Coming back to the reasoning of this post, I think mixing in serve and volley works well with my strategy described above. My serve is good and there's a good chance I'll get an easy first volley. In addition, it may help add pressure to the returner and result in more free points off of my serve and more weak returns to take advantage of.

Does this sound like an effective style of play? Are there any parts of it that are not a good idea? It's been working well so far, but I haven't been doing it for long and haven't yet had a wide variety of players to try it on. I'm sure I'll have to make some minor adjustments based on different types of opponents, but for the most part, I think this is the smartest and most effective way for me to play.

 

[papa]

BB, have you ever tried Luxilon Big Banger? I break strings constantly and find that Big Banger strings will last me a couple of months - actually, the ones in my racquets now have been there for almost three months and still play well --- thats a long time for me especially where I play mostly on clay because the har-tru seems to wear on most other strings quickly. I have never tried Aramid Gear but have written it down and will get some.

 

[Bungalo Bill]

BB, have you ever tried Luxilon Big Banger? I break strings constantly and find that Big Banger strings will last me a couple of months - actually, the ones in my racquets now have been there for almost three months and still play well --- thats a long time for me especially where I play mostly on clay because the har-tru seems to wear on most other strings quickly. I have never tried Aramid Gear but have written it down and will get some.

No I have not tried Big Banger but maybe I should. I just get so set in my ways. But I will give it a try. My strings can last more then a month but I cut them out every four weeks. In my opinion, that is too long as well, but hey, I am not a rich man. Although the strings still play well, the synthetic strings lose their life quickly. So that is why I cut them out and restring. Thank you for the tip!

 

[Marius_Hancu]

Check Sampras's chip and charging here;
http://www.tenniscruz.com/login.asp
you'll have to register (free)
once in, go to:
Approach & Volley
Pete Sampras (Punish 2nd Serves)

 

[FiveO]

Vin,
If I understand your original post your intent was to work s&v into your game as a change of pace or surprise tactic. I'm all-courter but s&v most of the time. My serve is my big weapon.
I know you said you have a strong serve and a good volley. Great. But, make sure that you've devoted some practice time to your first volley and half-volley. In my experience they are least practiced shots in tennis running neck and neck with return of serve. Spend some time around the service line and practice half-volleys and low volleys directing them deep into the corners. IMHO you'll need to be familiar with those shots to confidently follow your serve to net. And the term 1st volley means you should expect to have to hit a second. Doesn't mean you will have to hit a 2nd or an overhead, but you may. Very important but neglected shots. Remember from that depth in the court you have to volley up. In your practice hit a first volley at the service line deep into one corner or the other, move in to normal volley depth midway between a possible cross-court pass that might land on the service line and a down the line pass, and think of taking away the down the line pass first. Hit the second volley and then an overhead. Do this drill alot.

Then practice your serve to split-step to 1st/half volley deep to a corner. IMHO, to start, I would emphasize two s&v patterns. If you're right handed: 1) slice wide to the deuce court and 2) kick wide to the add court, Both intended to pull your opponent out of court and each followed by a first volley to the opposite corner. The reason I would choose these patterns first is that you'll take pressure off that 1st volley. Your target on the volley will be deep to the opposite corner if your point of contact on that 1st volley is low (at or below net height) or a short crosscourt if above the net. Coming near either of these targets puts your opponent in an emergency and you may you may never have to hit that 2nd volley or follow-up overhead. While not necessarily your intent, that 1st volley MAY end up a winner. After that 1st volley you WILL have to hustle to cover your opponent's passing angles from the opposite corner, but you'll be closer to net and at your more familiar volley depth by then. AND if your opponent hits a particularly forcing return of serve you have the entire court to dump some kind of ad-lib into. I agree w/ the commonly held rule that MOSTLY you should go up the line with a low volley for court positioning purposes and keeping the ball in front of you. BUT I feel strongly that you will benefit from being able to hit that 1st volley into a completely open court w/ the opponent nowhere in sight, having swung him off it w/ your serve. Simply stated that 1st volley doesn't have to be great to be very effective, just get anything crosscourt and you'll have the returner on the dead run, IF HE CHOOSES TO RUN.

You should work on all the patterns suggested by "Serve and Volley" above. In fact, my general starting strategy in S&V is to throw the kitchen sink at the opponent's weaker return side 70-90 percent of the time. So for me, I'll end up using the T almost exclusively in one box or the other. I GENERALLY use these two patterns and the body as my change of pace conditioned on how my strengths/weaknesses dovetail into my opponent's. IMHO I think you should emphasize these two patterns, AT FIRST. When attempting to throw in some s&v, change-ups for the first time, serving up the T just puts too much pressure on that 1st volley. While you DO limit the returner's angles, you limit yours as well. Unless you get a sitter to put away, the best you can do w/ that 1st volley is move your opponent half of the width of the court. You should get comfortable with the new footwork involved and executing serve and 1st or half volleys BEFORE adding the T patterns in. JMHO. Its also why I wouldn't advise using the flat serve when first working s&v into your game as a surprise tactic because you're more likely to find yourself trying to do something with a shoe top screamer from the MIDDLE of no man's land. The slice and kick give you time to get another step closer to the net before having to hit that 1st volley. You can always add the T's and bodies later.

When first incorporating those two patterns in a meaningful match, I'd suggest you should only pull them out of your bag of tricks when up in the service game 30-0, 40-0, 40-15. That is, until you're fully confident in executing the patterns. Use your "A-game" when you're even or if you're trailing in point score. Don't risk surprising YOURSELF and losing a BIG POINT with a NEW change of pace tactic. I'd hate to see you lose an important point or go down a break, while trying to add a new play and as a result sit down on the change-over and swear, "I'll never do that again".

*Obviously if during the course of an important match, you see that your opponent is consistently just floating back returns off your flatties or any other serve, s&v is a viable option as a surprise tactic on those as well. But again, I would suggest first trying it when up in point score.

Good luck.

 

[skittles]

Serve N Volley is Awesome! not for me... its not for every1... sum peopl just arnt good at volleys... even if u work on it long enough...its all bad habits.. like Roddick... on one of his matches during juniors pat mac told him to serve and volley so he did and he totally missed his volley... he said it was the stupidest thing hes ever heard in the world... for me i agree with him.. i love singles but not for me... i have better success in dubz... when i get the volley in alot of the time it is a winner on a S&V... but dts 2/10 times when i S&V...ive played alot of basketball my whole life... its just like shooting a three pointer... im a good three point shooter because i dont do it on purpose... if ur not a natural born S&V'er... use it when U feel its right... thats what i do and usually it works... i pull the trigger on my three ball when it feels right and i do the same for S&V and i get the same sensation... so IMO... use ur gut feeling.

 

[Bungalo Bill]

...But, make sure that you've devoted some practice time to your first volley and half-volley. In my experience they are least practiced shots in tennis running neck and neck with return of serve. Spend some time around the service line and practice half-volleys and low volleys directing them deep into the corners. IMHO you'll need to be familiar with those shots to confidently follow your serve to net. And the term 1st volley means you should expect to have to hit a second. Doesn't mean you will have to hit a 2nd or an overhead, but you may. Very important but neglected shots...

Now that is just excellent advice.

Practice that 1st volley also while moving. Get a Sampras video and watch his footwork, or maybe Marius can guide us to some examples.

 

[Marius_Hancu]

Get a Sampras video and watch his footwork, or maybe Marius can guide us to some examples.

Well, one should perhaps check McEnroe
here:
http://www.jericho.ca/tennis/The Slice Backhand.htm
which shows the whole S-V combination leading to smash.

Also, one could register at:
http://www.tenniscruz.com/login.asp
(free)
where many of the clips are functional (but not all).
There's a clip there working with Sampras chip and charging.
Let's hope that Mr. Cruz will have the whole collection (which is outstanding) up again soon.

 

[TommyGun]

Serve and volley, best used when play gets into a pattern or the other guy is consistently hitting a pattern of shots or certain winning shots.

For example, if they are having a good time killing you with short crosscourts during a rally, and are doing it more then less, serve and volley. If they are getting settled at the baseline, serve and volley. If they are consistently beating you to the net, serve and volley AND chip and charge.

I'm getting too old for long rallies. Good thing I learned to play in the early 70's...

 

[JackD]

alot of good posts here. I've noticed many of my students that are wroking the serve and volley or coming to the net in general often get really discouraged the first time they get passed. Most people as they start to come in measure success of volley winners vs passes and forget about the unforced errors that coming in can create. This is especially true if you serve and volley to mix it up or change pace. Getting the returner to have to think about multiple returns can create lots of mistakes (unforced errors) so make sure you credit yourself when that happens. In my area there are far fewer net rushers than baseliners and just coming in can get you tons of free points even if you have a weak volley. Its kind of like the problems people have when they play a lefty. The change of looks gets people uncomfortable which gives you a huge advantage. Good luck adding a new wrinkle to the attack.

 

[fastdunn]

I have been implementing fuller time S&V game in doubles matches.
It's been 6 months and I'm not fully comfortable yet.
I wonder how long this would take.

You serve and do split step. Then you spot the ball returning toward you.
Where is then the optimal position to catch the incoming ball, considering
my position at the tome of split step?
I generally catch the ball by moving forward and inside the service box.
But for ceratin balls, I just can't make a decision on whether I should catch them
in the air or half volley. Is it just a matter of getting used to different types of
returns or there's any guideline ? So whenever I can't figure out where to catch,
I tend to stay pretty much around where I did split steps, kinda in this "wait-and-see"
attitude, if you know what I mean....

 

[Exile]

I would go for the low volley, it will take a little time away from your opponent, and you could either let it go deep or turn it into a dropper, forcing a passing shot or a lob.

If you go with the half volley, the ball tends to kinda float a little, so your opponent gets a chance to recover and plan his next move. The half volley is a stroke that needs very good timing and has a very small margin for error, so placing it in a good spot is difficult.

Seeing as how every player is different, experiment in your s&v trials, go half volley one game, low volley next.
Whatever you feel comfortable with is what you should do, if you hesitate, you lose position.
Of course, you do kinda need to master both of them to improve though.

S&V is the way to go if you can't beat anyone on the baseline, hence, the net is my second home.

 

[FiveO]

fastdunn,

Position on the first volley is almost secondary to height you catch the volley at but one should take care of the other. The priority is to do your best to catch the volley above the net or as close to net height as you possibly can. This will almost always mean you need to close on the net. I don't know if I read your post correctly but if you said that you hit the first volley and then lingered near the service line, you definitely don't want to do that. Even if you are forced to hit your 1st volley near the service line after you execute that shot make sure you close in to normal volley depth about midway in the service box or even a little closer.

Dubs to me is a different animal. For the vast majority of good doubles duos the net man on the receiving team poaches almost automatically when he recognizes the server has been forced to volley up. If its happening alot the server's partner is going to need multiple ice packs after being a live target all day. For that reason in dubs almost more so than in singles you want to minimize the number of times the server gets caught in those situations.

-To a large extent s&v is familiarity and recognition. Be more aware of the ball coming off the receiver's strings. The sooner you see it the quicker you can pop out of your split-step and take a quick step or two closer to the net to make your volley. Never let a floater fall below net height. Remember the goal is to keep the opponents hitting up from below net height so you and your partner can hit down from above net height.

-Get a very, very, very high percentage of 1st serves in. Even if it means taking off pace. Add spin and give youself more time to get closer. Get more firsts in.

-Serve the T and the body. Unless you find the receiver to have a cannon return on one side and a powder puff to the other, the general rule is to attack the middle in dubs the majority of the time, choose to jam the receiver next but limit the number of times you go wide. Lower part of the net = higher percentages (easier to Get more first serves in). It frees up your partner at net to move because his worries of covering his sideline are reduced. And it limits the angles the receiver can play.

-Help your partner help you. Communicate with your partner before each serve (1st and 2nd, but not alot of 2nd's, right?) discuss whether or not he's going to poach, where and what you're going to serve, then go back to the baseline and get your first serve in. *Encourage your partner to poach more often.

-Lastly consider alternate formations, Australian and the "I" whatever, but remember to get your first serve in.

-If after all that you still are getting stuck consistently volleying up or half volleying up from near or behind the service line, remember that means the returner is ALWAYS hitting a short ball. There's no rule that says you can't get your first serve in stop and then approach up the middle off the short ball. Do it a couple times and it just may shake up the returner. Then mix the S&V back in.

-If your only getting caught hitting up once in a while and the opponent's net man has been killing your partner off your low volley or 1/2 volley, send one up the opponent's alley behind the net man to keep him honest. Or if your quick enough stop, even back up and bang it up the middle off the bounce.

-Did I forget to mention? Get your first serve in.

Good luck.

 

[fastdunn]

FiveO, everything on what to do on S&V is very clear to me now.
Thansks.... this forum is great!

 

[FiveO]

fastdunn,

No, actually there's more. This is core stuff to build from. I'm also pretty sure some other posters will add to it. One more thing, as quickly as you need to get into the net and as important as it is to catch the ball as high as you can, its very important to do it under control and in balance.

Good luck.

 

[vin]

Thanks for the advice FiveO.I've been playing more doubles over the past few months and have been following both serves into the net religously. I'm a lot more comfortable with the half volley and just being up at the net in general. I make a few too many unforced errors up there, but I'm confident that practice and experience will take care of that as it has with the rest of my game.

Although I don't often S&V in singles, I'm making my way to the net much more often. Enough to cause a few of my oponents to point out that I 'like to come in'. I still prefer setting up a short forehand with my serve, but definitely like having S&V as a different option. I mainly use it when my forehand is off, or if I'm getting a lot of off pace and akward returns, or if I'm trying to disrupt my opponents rythm.

I'm anxiously waiting for the warm weather to come. Net skills are definitely going to be a lot of what I practice this summer. A few things in particular I know I need to work on are adding depth to my volleys and getting closer to the net. I think my stride is too small when I rush the net. If I take bigger strides, I think I can get at least a few steps closer and not get caught near or behind the service line as often. I'll also keep the drill you suggested in mind.

I'm finally starting to discover myself in terms of a tennis game and it certainly makes it a lot more fun.

 

[Geezer Guy]

Vin, There's a lot of great stuff above. You started by asking WHEN to S&V, so I'll address that (only). I too consider myself an "all court" player. I like to get to the net and end the point, but I don't mind banging from the baseline if I don't get any short balls. I only S&V when I'm ahead by at least 2 (30-0 or 40-15). On the Serve for a S&V I usually serve into their body to get a week reply, and I rarely serve out wide because I often get passed. I will occasionally S&V down the T, and a nice bonus is that I get more aces on a S&V down the T than I normally do, due to the added speed of my serve by getting more of my body behind it. I almost always S&V on the first serve, but will occasionally S&V on second serve if I'm up 40-0. Hmmm, now that I think about it, at 40-0 I'll often try to mix them up and S&V on my second serve and send it out wide, and I get passed down the line. Me thinks I'll quit doing that. I only S&V once or twice a game - at most, and lots of games I don't S&V at all. Hope some of this helps. Good luck.

 

[Brettolius]

yeah, that was my problem in the past. i was going helter-skelter trying to get to the net asap, but i was all outta control. now i make my serve,come in relaxed and low and the volley is mine for the making. balance and control was the big key for me. now i love serve and volley, using it more and more. and lemme tell ya', once you get on a roll, it really starts to break down your oppenent big time. the unforced errors really start to mount, it really seems to get in their head.

 

[papa]

Well, if you playing doubles, I would think you would like to serve and volley on just about every point. I like to even S & V on a lot of singles points also and think its a mistake to only use it on certain points like when you're ahead.

 

[kevhen]

I tend to serve and volley when up 30-love or 40-love or sometimes as a surprise at love-love where I can still battle back if I lose the point. It's works better on a fast surface where your first volley can be a winner or force an error. Slow surfaces give opponents too much time to setup to hit a dipping shot at your shoestrings so until my volley improves I don't S&V much on slow surfaces. Good luck at getting to net. It is fun playing S&V if your opponent isn't ripping returns and passes by you.

 

[ferreira]

One way you can use the serve and volley is when you think you want to serve down the middle - go. This puts you in a very good position and reduces the angles your opponent has to reply with.

Make sure you practice your sprints.

Bill,
is there any specific book/website you could suggest for S&V? I've been working on S&V for a bit over 1 1/2 year now and would like to start getting a bit more into tactics. I've taken a look at the "All Forcing Game" (Tom Stowe??) section at TennisOne. What's your take on that?
Since we're at it, how do you evaluate the level of a S&Ver in NTRP terms? Does it take longer to become highly competitive at 4.0 playing S&V than backcourt?
Also, is S&V more attention-demanding, thus mentally exhaustive?
Is it common to see the S and the V go completely berzerk in the middle of the game?
Last, and likely not least, until when is it wise that I focus on learning and not on winning?
Best regards.

 

[TommyGun]

All of the good books that would help with serve and volley are out of print, but your local library might still be able to get them for you.

1. Ken Rosewall on Tennis-my mom threw it out last year, before I realized it was still in her attic storage. Ahhhhhh!

2. Tennis Magazine book, forget the title, but was compilation of articles, including great piece on Newk's twist serve and volley game.

3. Lew Hoad's book on tennis. Actually a great primer. Again, don't remember the title but if you do a google search on Hoad and tennis book it will pop up.

4. Percentage Tennis by Jack Kramer-THE DEFINITIVE BOOK ONTHE SERVE AND VOLLEY STYLE BUT NEARLY IMPOSSIBLE TO FIND!

5. How to Play Better Tennis by Tilden-different then Match Play and the Spin of the Ball, shows an evolving tennis genius.

 

[Bungalo Bill]

Bill,
is there any specific book/website you could suggest for S&V? I've been working on S&V for a bit over 1 1/2 year now and would like to start getting a bit more into tactics. I've taken a look at the "All Forcing Game" (Tom Stowe??) section at TennisOne. What's your take on that?
Since we're at it, how do you evaluate the level of a S&Ver in NTRP terms? Does it take longer to become highly competitive at 4.0 playing S&V than backcourt?
Also, is S&V more attention-demanding, thus mentally exhaustive?
Is it common to see the S and the V go completely berzerk in the middle of the game?
Last, and likely not least, until when is it wise that I focus on learning and not on winning?
Best regards.

Q. is there any specific book/website you could suggest for S&V? I've been working on S&V for a bit over 1 1/2 year now and would like to start getting a bit more into tactics. I've taken a look at the "All Forcing Game" (Tom Stowe??) section at TennisOne. What's your take on that?

A. I think Tommy Gun answered your question very well.

Q. Since we're at it, how do you evaluate the level of a S&Ver in NTRP terms?

A. Anyone can subjectively rate themselves on what level they are according to the criteria for a given rating. However, when it comes to tournament play, it really boils down to strategic matchups and whether a S&V can impose their style and strengths in the match. If you feel your S&V style is at the 4.0 level then you should enter a 4.0 tournament. It will then become a match of who can get the other player OUT of their game plan and their strengths.

The NTRP does not rate a style of play but allows you to rate yourself from an "all-court" perspective.

Q. Does it take longer to become highly competitive at 4.0 playing S&V than backcourt?

A. In my opinion, a S&V style requires a strong emphasis in physical conditioning. It is hard to say whether it takes longer given a persons bent towards things. The serve and the first volley are critical to an S&V. Also, the physical demands are higher as well.

Q. Also, is S&V more attention-demanding, thus mentally exhaustive?

A. I dont think the S&V is more mentally demanding then another style. Each style has its own focal areas. The S&V style puts a lot of pressure on the opponent especially if the S&V is quick, anticipates well, and can strongly influence a point with their serve and first volley.

Q. Is it common to see the S and the V go completely berzerk in the middle of the game?

A. I dont know what your trying to say here. If you're talking about pressure or key points in a game, you might see the S&V press harder in a given situation trying to force an error by his style rather then his shots.

Q. Last, and likely not least, until when is it wise that I focus on learning and not on winning?

A. You should always focus on how to win. But you shouldnt let winning distract you from your overall objective and that is to achieve your performance goals. I.E. first serve percentage, taking the right line after a certain shot, choosing the right shots, etc..

If you lose, it only means that there were a couple of areas your opponent had an answer for and that you can take to practice to improve on. Use your matches to improve your practice and use your practices to improve your match results. They are not independent if you want to compete at a higher level.

 

[Marius_Hancu]

I've just found this. Several good ideas for your training

Let's Play Half-Court, Serve-and-Volley Tennis!
By Ed Krass, Director, College Tennis Academy
Florida Tennis Magazine
http://www.halfcourtserveandvolley.com/serveandvolley.html

Half-court, serve-and-volley. All points are played crosscourt with the alleys included. Players must serve-and-volley on both first and second serves. Points are alternated on both the deuce & ad courts.

 

[Marius_Hancu]

this reference might be useful to some of those reading this thread:

Biomechanics of the Volley
by
E Paul Roetert - American Sport Education Program, USA
Jack Groppel - LGE Performance Systems, USA

 

[Marius_Hancu]

Biomechanics of the Volley
by
E Paul Roetert - American Sport Education Program, USA
Jack Groppel - LGE Performance Systems, USA

Interesting quote there on the timing of the split-step:

Most players at the club level should try to split step as the opponent initiates the forward swing, even though the very top volleyers have learned to time the split step so that they actual perform this movement the instant JUST AFTER the opponent's impact.

I think this is similar to what I told Jun several months ago, but that was on returns

 

[FiveO]

Since the original question, as I understood it, has morphed from how to incorporate S&V into one's game for a few 'change of pace' points in a match to a more full-time use I just wanted to point out that I believe the approach to S&V needs adjust as well. And I just wanted to expand on the following Q&A.

Q. Also, is S&V more attention-demanding, thus mentally exhaustive?

A. I dont think the S&V is more mentally demanding then another style. Each style has its own focal areas. The S&V style puts a lot of pressure on the opponent especially if the S&V is quick, anticipates well, and can strongly influence a point with their serve and first volley.

I totally agree with BB's description that each style has its own focal areas. S&V points, by their nature generally consists 3 or 4 shots at most, if not less, but very seldom more. If you are not dictating the point from the get go, you are at a tremendous disadvantage. The point is over before you can fight or scramble your way back into it. For that reason, when S&V is employed more toward a full time basis, I believe attention-demands are much higher but not necessarily to the point of mental exhaustion. I feel that employing S&V f/t or on a majority of points, unless you out-class your opponent, is very "tendency" sensitve, in fact the most tendency sensitive of all the game styles. Awareness of your serving and 1st volley tendencies (direction, spin and pace) is paramount. Tendencies are not bad. Not being aware of them IS. In fact, especially in S&V, those very tendencies you create can be used to your advantage both tactically and psychologically, as long as you constantly stay aware of them.

 

[Noelle]

One thing I learned about implementing serve-and-volley this past week: remove all balls from the net area before the point starts! We didn't do so during our hitting session, and when I moved to put the ball away with a volley I stepped on a ball and twisted my ankle in two directions.

 

[court_zone]

I would serve and volley when I move in behind power or get my opponent out of position.

 

[Roforot]

I've just found this. Several good ideas for your training

Let's Play Half-Court, Serve-and-Volley Tennis!
By Ed Krass, Director, College Tennis Academy
Florida Tennis Magazine
http://www.halfcourtserveandvolley.com/serveandvolley.html

Half-court, serve-and-volley. All points are played crosscourt with the alleys included. Players must serve-and-volley on both first and second serves. Points are alternated on both the deuce & ad courts.

Now this looks like fun. I can't wait to try it. Thanks for the link!

 

[Marius_Hancu]

One thing I learned about implementing serve-and-volley this past week: remove all balls from the net area before the point starts! We didn't do so during our hitting session, and when I moved to put the ball away with a volley I stepped on a ball and twisted my ankle in two directions.

I am religious about this in matches, as I think a ball left there perturbs my visual concentration. But yes, accidents can happen too.

 

[thejackal]

One thing I learned about implementing serve-and-volley this past week: remove all balls from the net area before the point starts! We didn't do so during our hitting session, and when I moved to put the ball away with a volley I stepped on a ball and twisted my ankle in two directions.

Don't want to scare you, but I stepped on a ball while practicing and 2 years later I'm still having ankle problems. I hope you'll be luckier.

 

[papa]

I stepped on a ball a few years ago and went down like a ton of bricks - thought I got hit by lightning. I'm even worse than Marius about loose balls and either want them in my/my partners pockets or back against the fence. Just seems that too many things can, and will, happen when playing points to have to be concerned about where the damn balls are. When I hit, which I do almost daily, its a different picture and I can somehow have 100's of balls all over the place and I'm not concerned - think its a concentration thing.

 

[MegacedU]

If you hit a good serve into either corner of the service box or to the opponents backhand there's not reason why you shouldn't follow it to the net.

That's what my coach told me when I first started serve and volleying at good old Tri-City. Yay for City X's Serve and volleyers.

 

[Marius_Hancu]

If you hit a good serve into either corner of the service box or to the opponents backhand there's not reason why you shouldn't follow it to the net.

Absolutely. The reason many don't follow is that their jump into the ball for contact is too vertical (caused by too vertical a toss), instead of being more into the court. Thus they are not bodily biased to get to the net, and the center of gravity is not pulling them towards the net.

 

[FiveO]

If you hit a good serve into either corner of the service box or to the opponents backhand there's not reason why you shouldn't follow it to the net.

I must be misinterpreting the meaning. If so, disregard. But if the premise is that you hit the serve, evaluate its direction and then go, thats the wrong approach to S&V by design. It can work if you are looking to lean in anticipating a duck return so you are better able to close in to knock it off before the bounce. But that's predicated on a serve and stay plan not S&V. In S&V you must be confident in directing your serve w/ purpose and have the plan before you ever start your motion; then you have to commit to it. You have to commit to S&V before you serve. If I misunderstood, I apologize.

I also have a question on the idea of a good serve to either corner implying an automatic for S&V. IMHO, serve selection, more so in S&V than any other game style, is just too dependant on your opponent's return strenghts/weaknesses to say that. I am an all-courter w/ heavy bias toward S&V on offense and my serve is my biggest weapon. I have a big first serve, quality topspins, slices and a high jumping kick all with good pace and direction. In all modesty all GOOD serves. I can't blindly throw any one of them in against any opponent all the time and expect good results. One of my opponents knows he's getting a steady diet of kicks high to his one handed bh, even off first serves. He has difficulty neutralizing it. Another collegiate player w/ a 2 hander, I practice against regularly, asks why I hardly ever show him the twist out wide in the ad court, ANY MORE. I just laugh as its kind of a rhetorical question. While I agree that in S&V, GENERALLY and especially against an unfamiliar opponent, its a good STARTING POINT to target the bh corner w/ good serves, I realize that my serve choices might have to change quickly depending on where his return strengths are. If my opponent is real good, I have to be more concerned with the serve tendencies I've allowed to be established, but that's probably another topic. JMHO

If I've misinterpreted that one too, I apologize. My reading comprehension is NOT a weapon.

 

[armand]

I play with a guy who is a serve+volley master. He's older and overweight but he's got amazing hands. Because he's got great hands, his first volley is often very good.

Now, my first volley is my weakness and so I try to make up for it by getting to net faster. I try to run at full speed but it seems I lose some ability to change direction when going that fast.

So my question is: How fast should one run when serving+volleying? 100%? 75%? 40?

 

[MegacedU]

I play with a guy who is a serve+volley master. He's older and overweight but he's got amazing hands. Because he's got great hands, his first volley is often very good.

Now, my first volley is my weakness and so I try to make up for it by getting to net faster. I try to run at full speed but it seems I lose some ability to change direction when going that fast.

So my question is: How fast should one run when serving+volleying? 100%? 75%? 40?

That's all subjective. How far up can you get if you run 100%? The object is putting yourself in a good position for a solid volley or half volley. So run as fast as you need to to do so.