Approach Two-Ball
Why this drill
The approach shot and the first volley are one motion interrupted by a split step. Programmed as a two-ball sequence, the machine rehearses the interruption — which is where club net raids actually die.
Setup
Machine feeding a two-ball sequence if programmable — a short mid-court ball, then a firm ball at the incoming player — or a fixed brisk interval that creates the same effect. Cone deep down the line, cone deep crosscourt.
The drill
Attack the short ball down the line past the cone, close in, split-step, and punch the second ball crosscourt at the other cone. Ten sequences per wing. Score two points per rep when both balls find their zones, one point for either. Out of twenty per wing; fourteen is strong.
One thought to take on court
Land the split step as the machine releases the second ball — early feet make easy hands.