Many times when teaching I can adjust a student’s thinking and as a result affect stroke production. This quick tip on volleying can improve your volleys without making any major changes in your stroke.
Would you like to improve your volley without consciously changing any technical skill? The next time you volley do not think in terms of hitting a winner. Instead, think in terms of consistency and control. Simple, isn’t it? It may be, but do not assume you think correctly when hitting volleys. I have been teaching a long time and just about everyone tries to go for too much on every volley they hit. I call it playing in the ‘hit-winners mindset.’ Subconsciously they think they should win the point NOW every time they touch the volley.
Most players at the net are so filled with anxiety they overplay everything. The next time you are volleying use a ‘consistent mindset’ and watch the difference. Think in terms of just getting the ball back, moving it around, and not hitting a winner. Of course, when you have a high short ball you can go for a winner, but relax, slow it down, and you will be surprised how much more consistently you will play, even when hitting winners!!!
Winners do not win matches – consistency and control does!
What effect does this type of thinking have on the technical strokes? Simple, when you try to play with a ‘consistent mindset’ you stop swinging the racket and automatically begin improving your block volleys. Most players over-swing up at the net. This is an excellent mental technique to help you learn a block volley and surprise your friends with the quick improvement. Try it!
Your Tennis Pro,
Tom Veneziano
