PROpickleball methodology

Personal pickleball training from scratch: 52 sessions of 60 minutes

Полная рабочая методичка тренера: как поставить ученика, куда направить ноги и ракетку, где встретить мяч, что сказать, как упростить упражнение при слабой координации и каким KPI проверить результат. Разминка в 60 минут не входит.

52 × 60 minutesfull individual cycle from scratch

23 standardsstance, movement, shots and positions

9 stagesfrom first contact to competitions

KPI for each blockmeasure the action, not ‘beautiful technique’

How to use the program

Это карта обучения, а не календарь. Если ученику понадобились три занятия на dink — проведите три. Если человек с теннисным опытом за десять минут освоил базовый groundstroke, переходите к следующей проблеме. Номер занятия не важнее результата.

Перед каждым упражнением тренер должен ответить на девять вопросов: где стоит ученик, как стоят ноги, где вес тела, где ракетка, как двигаться к мячу, где встретить мяч, как провести ракетку, куда должен полететь мяч и как измерить успех.

In one block, correct one main error. Do not simultaneously say “lower your legs, raise the paddle, turn the shoulders, relax the wrist, hit earlier.” Choose one parameter, give 5–10 attempts and measure again.

Contents

Full program on one page

Technical standard

23 cards from grip and ready position to transition, reset, doubles and singles.

Go to standards ↓

Adaptation

What to do if a student has poor coordination, is afraid of the ball, or does not absorb long explanations.

Go to adaptation ↓

52 sessions

Each hour is structured by time, objective, execution and KPI.

Go to training ↓

If the student has weak coordination or struggles to process instructions

Не ставьте диагноз и не повторяйте одну и ту же команду громче. Упростите среду. Ученик должен успешно выполнять примерно 60–80% текущей задачи. Если получается 1 из 10 — упражнение слишком сложное. Если 10 из 10 без усилия — усложняйте.

Simplification ladder

Level 1 — without a paddle: the student moves and catches the ball by hand.
Level 2 — the paddle is used, but the coach predictably tosses the ball by hand.
Level 3 — the same paddle feed to one point and one side.
Level 4 — two possible sides: forehand or backhand.
Level 5 — random direction.
Level 6 — random depth and direction.
Level 7 — the student chooses the decision independently: drive/drop, attack/control, play/out.
Level 8 — free rally play under scoring conditions.

How to give instruction

Use this framework: demonstrated → gave one short phrase → student tried → made a brief correction. Instead of asking ‘Understood?’, ask ‘Show me.’ This immediately reveals whether the person actually understood.

If the student does not understand ‘turn your shoulders and keep contact in front,’ remove the terminology: ‘Turn to the ball and meet it here’ — and indicate the contact point with your hand.

How to correct a mistake

Recognize a recurring error.
Check whether it actually interferes with the result.
Choose the likely cause.
Give one correction.
Give 5–10 attempts.
Measure again.
If the result has not changed, change the correction rather than repeating it louder.

Technical standard

Exactly how to position the body, feet, paddle and contact point

Эти карты используются во всех 52 занятиях. Если в уроке указано «стандарт dink» или «стандарт return», тренер сверяется с соответствующей картой ниже.

1. Basic grip

Task Teach a neutral grip that lets a beginner serve, hit forehands and backhands, volley and play softly at the kitchen without constantly changing wrist position.

Starting position

Hold the paddle like a hammer: the paddle edge continues the line of the forearm.
The palm fully wraps around the handle; the index finger may be separated slightly from the others.
Do not extend the thumb along the handle. The wrist continues the line of the forearm.
Basic grip pressure is about 3–4 out of 10: the paddle is secure, but the forearm is not tense.

Movement

For dink and drop, loosen the grip to 2–4 out of 10.
For punch volley and counter, 4–6 out of 10 is acceptable, but without a tense squeeze.

Contact point and direction

At contact, the paddle should not rotate in the hand.
If the paddle face is unstable, slightly increase grip pressure; if the ball consistently pops up, first relax the hand.

What the coach says

Hold firmly, but do not strangle the paddle.
Wrist relaxed, paddle does not wobble.

Typical errors

White knuckles and a tense forearm mean the grip is too tight.
The paddle turns on an easy ball — the grip is too loose.
A beginner keeps changing grip between shots; start by keeping one neutral option.

KPI. The student holds the paddle steadily through 20 simple contacts without tensing the forearm.

2. Ready position

Task Position the body so the first step right, left, forward or backward does not require a preliminary foot adjustment.

Starting position

Feet slightly wider than the hips or approximately shoulder-width apart.
Toes point forward or slightly outward.
Knees softly bent: this is not a deep squat.
The torso leans slightly forward from the hips while the back remains neutral.
Weight is not sitting on the heels. The heels may touch the court but stay light.

Movement

Paddle in front of the torso, roughly between the abdomen and chest.
Paddle head slightly above the wrist.
The free hand helps maintain balance and keep the paddle in front of the body.

Contact point and direction

From this stance, the student should be able to make the first step in any direction without an extra squat or turn.

What the coach says

Soft knees. Weight forward. Paddle in front.
Do not sit low — be ready to move.

Typical errors

Locked knees.
Weight on the heels.
Paddle hangs by the hip.
An overly wide stance that makes it hard to start moving.

If it is not working

Put the paddle aside and first work only on foot position.
Show four directions with your hands instead of words.

KPI. On the coach's cue, the student makes the first step in a random direction ten times in a row without losing balance.

3. Split-step

Task Teach the player to be stopped by the moment the opponent strikes so they do not run past the next ball.

Starting position

The player moves while the ball travels toward the opponent.
Before the opponent makes contact, lightly unload the legs and place both feet on the court.
Keep the knees soft and the body ready for the next first step.

Movement

A split-step is not a high jump. It is a small unloading action and a return to a stable position.
The first step begins immediately after reading the ball’s direction.

Contact point and direction

By the opponent's contact, the player should no longer be running forward quickly.

What the coach says

The opponent hits — you are already balanced.
Opponent strikes the ball — stop the feet.

Typical errors

High upward jump.
Stopping too early, after which the player starts running again before contact.
Continuing to sprint at the moment the opponent hits.

If it is not working

Without a ball, the coach claps instead of hitting; on the clap, the student performs a split-step.

KPI. The student meets 8 out of the next 10 balls after a stable split-step rather than at full speed.

4. Movement to the ball

Task Teach players to create comfortable distance to the ball with their feet instead of reaching with one arm.

Starting position

Use small shuffle steps for short lateral movement.
For a wide ball, allow a crossover as the first crossing step.
Shorten the final steps before contact to stabilize the body.

Movement

First read the trajectory, then move to the contact point.
When possible, stop running fast before the shot.
Immediately recover position after the shot and return the paddle in front of the body.

Contact point and direction

Leave space between the body and ball for the paddle to move.
Do not let the ball get into the body or behind the player.

What the coach says

Step to the ball; do not reach with your arm.
Find the spacing first, then hit.

Typical errors

The player reaches without moving their feet.
An excessively large final step and loss of balance.
After the shot, stands and watches the ball.

If it is not working

First catch balls with the hands after moving.
Feed all balls to one side, then add the other side.

KPI. In a series of 10 random feeds from the coach, at least 8 contacts occur at a comfortable distance from the body.

5. Forehand groundstroke

Task Consistently play the ball on the forehand after the bounce, controlling direction without an excessive swing.

Starting position

Start from a ready position.
After reading the ball, the shoulders turn slightly and the paddle moves back compactly, not behind the body.
The feet adjust the distance to the ball.

Movement

The paddle travels forward through the ball; for topspin, from low to forward and upward.
Weight shifts forward naturally, but the player does not fall into the ball.
After the finish, the paddle returns to center.

Contact point and direction

Contact in front of the body; for a right-hander, forward and slightly to the right.
A comfortable basic height is between the knee and the hip.
At contact, the paddle face is aimed roughly toward the target.

What the coach says

Prepared. Found the distance. Met the ball in front. Followed through.
Do not hit with the wrist — drive the paddle through the ball.

Typical errors

Contact near the hip or behind the body.
Huge backswing.
Sharp wrist snap.
Loss of balance after the shot.

KPI. 7 out of 10 balls land in the assigned large zone while the player remains balanced.

6. Backhand groundstroke

Task Develop a reliable backhand. A one-handed or two-handed option is chosen based on the individual student's consistency.

Starting position

From the ready stance, the shoulders turn toward the ball.
Keep the paddle compactly in front of the body line rather than letting it travel far behind the back.
The feet create distance to the ball.

Movement

The motion travels forward through the ball; for topspin, add a low-to-high direction.
Generate power through body position, the shoulder and paddle movement, not the wrist alone.

Contact point and direction

Contact is in front of the body; on a one-handed backhand it is usually slightly farther forward than on a forehand.

What the coach says

Turn, find the distance, push the ball forward.
Do not push using only the wrist.

Typical errors

Ball too close to the body.
Contact behind the body.
The player tries to equalize backhand and forehand power at the expense of control.

KPI. 7 out of 10 backhands land in court; at least 5 go in the assigned direction.

7. Volley serve

Task Start the rally legally and consistently with a diagonal serve.

Starting position

Both feet are behind the baseline; the line may not be stepped on before contact.
For a right-hander, the left foot may be slightly forward, with the body half-turned.
Keep the ball in front of the body.

Movement

Release the ball calmly without spinning it by hand.
The paddle follows a clear rising arc from low to forward and upward.
After contact, the motion continues toward the target and the player remains ready for the return.

Contact point and direction

Contact below the waist and in front of the body.
At contact, the highest point of the paddle head must be below the highest point of the wrist.
Target the diagonal service court; initially aim for its central 60–70%.

What the coach says

Low — forward — up.
Contact in front, not beside the back leg.

Typical errors

Foot on the baseline.
Sideways or downward swing.
Contact too high.
Trying to serve at maximum speed immediately.

KPI. First 7 out of 10 legal serves, then 8 out of 10; the working target is 5–6 deep serves out of 10.

8. Drop serve

Task Give a legal and often simpler serving option to a student who finds it difficult to synchronize the release and volley serve.

Starting position

Stand behind the baseline.
Hold the ball at a natural height in front of the body.

Movement

Simply release the ball: do not toss it upward or push it downward.
After the bounce, play a normal groundstroke-like shot.

Contact point and direction

Contact after the bounce in front of the body at a comfortable height.

What the coach says

Release — wait for the bounce — hit.
Do not help the ball with your hand.

Typical errors

Tossing the ball upward.
Drop downward.
Hitting on the run without stability.

KPI. 7–8 out of 10 legal serves land in the correct service court.

9. Return

Task Return the serve reliably and deep, then take position at the NVZ.

Starting position

Start near the baseline or slightly behind it; against a deep serve, you can move back another step.
Relaxed legs, paddle in front.

Movement

Do not guess the side in advance — read the serve first.
Move into position with the feet, play after the bounce, then immediately start moving forward.
Perform a split-step before the opponent’s next shot.

Contact point and direction

Contact in front of the body.
Give the beginner a safe margin over the net and a target in the back part of the court.

What the coach says

Deep with margin.
Returned — moved forward — stopped by the opponent’s shot.

Typical errors

Attempt to win the point with the return.
The player admires the shot and stays on the baseline.
Runs forward through the opponent’s contact without a split-step.

KPI. 8 out of 10 returns land in court, 5–6 are deep, with 8 correct forward transitions.

10. Punch volley

Task Control the ball before the bounce at the NVZ without a large tennis-style swing.

Starting position

For training, stand about 10–20 cm behind the NVZ line.
Feet wider than the hips, knees soft, weight forward.
Paddle in front of the chest.

Movement

Minimal preparation.
A short push forward; on a high ball, the motion can be directed slightly downward.
After contact, the paddle immediately returns to ready position.

Contact point and direction

Contact in front of the body.
The faster the incoming ball, the smaller your own swing.

What the coach says

Short forward — and the paddle comes straight back.
Do not take the paddle behind your body.

Typical errors

Large backswing.
The paddle drops to the hip after the shot.
The player backs away from every ball unnecessarily.

KPI. 8 out of 10 controlled volleys in court.

11. Block volley

Task Absorb the pace of a hard drive and return a low, unattackable ball.

Starting position

Low, stable stance.
Paddle in front, grip softer than for a punch volley.

Movement

Minimize your own movement.
On a very fast ball, the paddle can give slightly backward on impact.

Contact point and direction

Contact in front of the body.
Target — low into the opponent's NVZ.

What the coach says

Do not add pace — take pace off.
Soft hands, paddle in front.

Typical errors

A forceful counter-swing.
Overly tense wrist.
The paddle face is too open and the ball flies upward.

KPI. 6 out of 10 hard drives are returned with a low ball that is difficult to attack.

12. Dink

Task Control the soft exchange at the NVZ and force the opponent to play a low ball.

Starting position

Feet about 10–20 cm behind the NVZ line when expecting a volley.
Feet wider than the hips, knees soft, torso slightly forward.
Paddle in front of the body and below the expected contact point.

Movement

Minimal preparation.
Movement from the shoulder forward and slightly upward; wrist relaxed.
After the shot, return to the ready position.

Contact point and direction

Contact in front of the body.
After the bounce, try to play the ball before it drops almost to the floor.
Give a beginner a safe margin over the net.

What the coach says

Don't hit — carry the ball.
Soft hands, short motion.

Typical errors

Big backswing.
Abrupt wrist action.
Contact close to the floor because of late preparation.
The player stands in the NVZ and volleys.

KPI. First 10, then 20 consecutive controlled dinks.

13. Third-shot drop

Task Neutralize the receiving team's advantage at the NVZ and give the serving team time to move forward.

Starting position

Start teaching closer to the net and gradually move back toward the baseline.
Stable stance, compact preparation, soft grip.

Movement

Smooth movement forward and upward.
Do not accelerate the paddle abruptly or try to hit a winner.

Contact point and direction

Contact in front of the body, with the paddle moving under the ball.
The trajectory should clear the net and lose height before reaching the opponent at the NVZ.

What the coach says

Lift and carry it.
A good drop gives you time to move forward.

Typical errors

Trying to teach the drop immediately only from the baseline.
Strong shot instead of a soft trajectory.
Assessment based only on landing in the kitchen, without linking it to the transition.

KPI. 6 out of 10 drops are functional: after them, the player can improve position.

14. Drive

Task Speed up the right ball with control, most often toward the middle, body, feet or the opponent's weaker side.

Starting position

The stance resembles a groundstroke; preparation is more active than for a drop, but without a huge backswing.

Movement

The paddle travels forward through the ball; for topspin, from low to high.
After the shot, quickly return to playing position.

Contact point and direction

Contact in front of the body.
Do not aim for the line every time: larger targets provide more consistency.

What the coach says

Speed with control.
Target first, power second.

Typical errors

Maximum power with poor balance.
Contact behind the body.
A risky target near the line without a tactical reason.

KPI. 7 out of 10 drives land in court; 5 produce a neutral or weak response.

15. Transition through the transition zone

Task Teach the player to advance toward the NVZ only as far as the quality of their own ball allows.

Starting position

Start behind the baseline after the third shot.

Movement

Cycle: shot → move forward while there is time → split-step before the opponent's contact → read the ball → next shot → advance again.
If the drop is poor, stay balanced and defend. If it is good, continue forward.

Contact point and direction

Play the next shot from a balanced position, not while sprinting.

What the coach says

Do not move by schedule — move according to ball quality.
Hit — move — stop — read.

Typical errors

Sprint to the kitchen after any third shot.
No split-step.
Trying to attack an awkward ball from transition.

KPI. 8 out of 10 decisions to move or stop match the quality of the previous ball.

16. Reset

Task Release pressure in the transition zone and return the rally to a neutral soft phase.

Starting position

Use a lower-than-usual stance, stable legs, paddle in front of the body and a soft grip.

Movement

Keep the motion minimal and use the opponent's pace instead of generating your own acceleration.

Contact point and direction

Contact in front of the body, target — the opponent's NVZ.

What the coach says

Do not hit harder — absorb the pace.
Soft hands, low target.

Typical errors

Big backswing.
Tight grip.
Attempt to win the point from a bad position.

KPI. 6 of 10 hard balls are neutralized with a reset.

17. Speed-up

Task Speed up a genuinely attackable ball from a stable position and be ready for the counter.

Starting position

The starting stance resembles a dink so the intention is not revealed early.

Movement

Compact preparation, short acceleration through the ball.
After the shot, the paddle immediately returns in front of the body.

Contact point and direction

Contact in front of the body at a sufficiently high point.
Primary targets: body, playing shoulder, open space and weak side.

What the coach says

Attack the right ball, not every ball.
After speeding up, be ready for the counter immediately.

Typical errors

Speed-up from a low ball.
Large backswing that is readable in advance.
The paddle stays to the side after the attack.

KPI. 7 out of 10 balls selected for attack are genuinely suitable for a speed-up; 7 out of 10 shots stay in court.

18. Counter

Task Actively counter the opponent's speed-up without unnecessary preparation.

Starting position

Low ready stance, paddle in front of the chest.

Movement

Almost no backswing, a short motion through the ball, then an immediate return of the paddle to center.

Contact point and direction

Contact in front of the body.

What the coach says

Use the opponent's pace.
Short and back to the middle.

Typical errors

Backswing behind the body.
Loss of ready position after the first counter.
Attempting a counter instead of a block on an overly difficult ball.

KPI. 7 out of 10 counter/block decisions are sensible for the specific ball.

19. Lob

Task Lob over the opponent or buy time under pressure.

Starting position

An offensive lob usually starts from a position similar to a dink; a defensive lob starts from a defensive situation.

Movement

The paddle travels more upward under the ball; the trajectory is higher than a normal dink.

Contact point and direction

Contact in front of the body; the main target is depth behind the opponent.

What the coach says

Height for depth, not for looks.
Do not show the lob too early.

Typical errors

Short lob straight into the overhead.
An overly open paddle face sends the ball too far.

KPI. 6 out of 10 lobs are deep enough to force the opponent to retreat.

20. Overhead

Task Handle a high overhead ball safely while maintaining position control.

Starting position

The first reaction is not to run backward facing the net, but to turn sideways.

Movement

Turn → crossover steps → move into position → stop → hit.
The paddle is prepared above shoulder level.

Contact point and direction

Contact high and in front of the body.
Safe targets: middle, feet or the open part of the court.

What the coach says

Turn first, then move.
Move under the ball and contact it in front.

Typical errors

Running backward.
Contact behind the head.
Chasing only maximum power.

KPI. 8 of 10 overheads land in the court without loss of balance.

21. PLAY / OUT decision

Task Stop returning balls that the opponent has already sent out.

Starting position

We look at more than one factor: contact height, opponent position, paddle-face direction, speed, spin and distance from the baseline.

Movement

At first the student does not hit at all and only says PLAY or OUT. Then add a shot only on PLAY.

Contact point and direction

Make the decision before your own contact if possible, and as early in the ball's trajectory as you can.

What the coach says

Decide first, then hit.
Do not save the opponent from their out ball.

Typical errors

A magic rule such as ‘anything above the shoulder is out.’
Make the decision only after the bounce.
Automatic shot at every ball.

KPI. 8 out of 10 PLAY/OUT decisions are correct in the training series.

22. Positioning in doubles

Task Understand where the receiving and serving teams should be and how the pair shifts with the ball.

Starting position

The receiver starts near the baseline; their partner is usually already near the NVZ.
After the return, the receiver moves forward.
After the serve, the serving team stays deeper because the return must bounce.

Movement

After the third shot, the serving team begins the transition.
At the NVZ, the pair shifts right and left with the direction of the ball.
Do not define partner spacing with a single number; the key is not to leave a huge gap in the middle or interfere with each other.

Contact point and direction

Position is chosen relative to the ball and likely reply angles, not according to a painted point on the court.

What the coach says

Return — move forward. Serve — stay back until the third.
The pair moves together with the ball.

Typical errors

The receiver stays on the baseline.
The server runs to the NVZ immediately after the serve.
One partner moves, the other stays and opens the middle.

KPI. In 8 out of 10 basic scenarios, the student shows the correct position of both players.

23. Positioning in singles

Task Cover the whole court alone and recover position relative to the opponent's possible responses.

Starting position

After each shot, the player assesses the position of the ball and the opponent.

Movement

Do not mechanically return to the geometric center. Recover to the center of the opponent's likely reply angles.

Contact point and direction

Play the shot from a stable position and begin recovery immediately afterward.

What the coach says

After the shot, recover to the center of possible replies.
Watch not only the ball but also the opponent’s position.

Typical errors

Stand where you just hit from.
Always running to the geometric center regardless of the direction of your own shot.

KPI. 80% of playing episodes end with sensible recovery rather than stopping after the shot.

Route

9 course stages

Sessions 1–8

From zero to an independent rally

Stance, movement, forehand, backhand, serve, return, volley, dink and basic positioning.

Sessions 9–16

Ball control

Depth, direction, drive, block volley, consistent dink and baseline control.

Sessions 17–24

Third shot and transition

Drop, drive, third-shot selection, fifth shot, reset and the full path baseline → NVZ.

Sessions 25–31

Soft game and pace changes

Crosscourt dink, aggressive dink, attackable ball, speed-up, counter and hands.

Sessions 32–36

Protection

Banger, out-ball recognition, lob, overhead and the transition defence → neutral → offence.

Sessions 37–43

Doubles tactics

Geometry, pair movement, target selection, creating an attackable ball and game plan.

Sessions 44–47

Additional tools

Spin, two-handed backhand, ATP, Erne and disguise.

Sessions 48–50

Singles

Recovery, passing, attack patterns and independent strategy.

Sessions 51–52

Competition and exam

Pressure score, timeout, technical test, decision test and final profile.

52 sessions

Minute-by-minute private-session curriculum

Разминка проводится до начала часа. Внутри каждого блока указаны цель, порядок выполнения и KPI. Если техника элемента уже описана в стандартах выше, она не изобретается заново: используется соответствующая карта.

Session 1. First introduction: ball, stance, forehand, backhand and serve

Result of the hour. Через 60 минут ученик понимает базовую механику розыгрыша, умеет попасть по мячу после отскока, выполнить простую подачу и провести несколько коротких розыгрышей.

0–5 minutes. Coordination check without a paddle

Goal. Understand how the student reads trajectory and moves to the ball.

How to perform it.

The student stands 2,5–3 m from the coach in a ready stance.
The coach gently tosses the ball 1–1,5 m to the right or left.
Ученик видит направление, делает первый шаг, подходит, останавливается и ловит мяч двумя руками после одного отскока на 30–50 см перед корпусом.

Technique.

Use the standards ‘ready stance’ and ‘movement to the ball’.

What the coach says.

Do not say ‘your coordination is poor.’ If it is difficult, change the task.

If it is not working.

Reduce the distance to 1.5 m.
Feed every ball to the same spot.
Slow down the drop.

Block KPI. 8 out of 10 balls are caught in front without losing balance.

5–15 minutes. First forehand

Goal. Teach clean contact on the forehand after the bounce.

How to perform it.

The player stands 2–3 m from the NVZ.
The coach feeds identical soft balls to the right side.
The student moves into position, stops, contacts the ball in front and swings the paddle through the ball toward the central half of the court.

Technique.

Forehand standard: compact preparation, contact in front of the right hip for a right-hander, and a balanced finish.

What the coach says.

Step in. Stop. Meet the ball in front.

If it is not working.

Position closer to the net.
Start by tossing the ball by hand.
Keep only one cue: ‘meet it in front.’

Block KPI. 7 of 10 balls clear the net and land in the court.

15–25 minutes. First backhand

Goal. Establish a workable backhand contact point.

How to perform it.

For the first five minutes, the coach feeds only backhands to one spot.
For the next five minutes, alternate forehand and backhand.
The student recognizes the side, turns the shoulders and meets the ball in front of the body.

Technique.

Standard backhand.

What the coach says.

Turn. Find the distance. Push forward.

If it is not working.

Return to a backhand-only series.
Allow a two-handed option if it is noticeably more stable.

Block KPI. 6 out of 10 backhands land in court; when alternating sides, 7 out of 10 total shots land in.

25–35 minutes. First serve

Goal. Teach how to legally start a rally.

How to perform it.

If coordination is sufficient, use a volley serve; if the release causes difficulty, use a drop serve.
Aim for the central part of the diagonal service court.
After serving, stay behind the baseline and return to ready position.

Technique.

Standard volley serve or drop serve.

What the coach says.

Low — forward — up.

If it is not working.

Switch to a drop serve.
Allow serving from a shorter distance first as a training exercise, then return behind the baseline for a legal serve.

Block KPI. 7 of 10 legal serves into the correct service court.

35–45 minutes. First return

Goal. Return the serve after the mandatory bounce and begin moving forward.

How to perform it.

The coach feeds slowly and consistently.
The student waits for the bounce, moves into position, plays the ball in front, then takes 2–3 steps forward and split-steps for the coach's next ball.

Technique.

Standard return and split-step.

What the coach says.

Returned — moved forward — stopped by the time of my shot.

If it is not working.

The coach does not play the next shot, but claps at the moment when a split-step is required.

Block KPI. 7 out of 10 returns land in court; at least 6 correct first movements forward.

45–55 minutes. The two-rebound rule

Goal. Connect technique with the main rule at the start of a rally.

How to perform it.

Play only the first three shots: serve → bounce → return → bounce → third.
If someone volleys the second ball, stop immediately and repeat the sequence.

What the coach says.

Serve — bounce. Return — bounce. Then free play.

If it is not working.

Say ‘bounce — bounce’ aloud before starting the sequence.

Block KPI. 8 out of 10 rally starts are completed without violating the two-bounce rule.

55–60 minutes. Mini-game

Goal. Check whether the student can connect the elements without constant prompting.

How to perform it.

Play skinny singles on half the court.
The coach does not correct every shot, only monitors safety and the two-bounce rule.

What the coach says.

Now just play. I am watching what already remains without prompting.

Block KPI. At least three rallies of four or more shots.

Session 2. Directional control

Result of the hour. The student stops simply sending the ball back and starts choosing a large target zone before the shot.

0–5 minutes. Diagnostic game

Goal. See the natural direction of errors.

How to perform it.

Skinny singles without prompts.
The coach notes whether the ball most often goes into the net, long, left or right, and whether the feet arrive in time.

Block KPI. A clear primary error has been identified for correction.

5–15 minutes. Forehand to two zones

Goal. Connect the paddle-face direction with the target.

How to perform it.

Divide the opposite half of the court into large left and right zones.
Before the feed, the coach names the target. The student briefly looks at it, returns their eyes to the ball and plays a forehand.

Technique.

Standard forehand.

What the coach says.

Choose the target first, then play the ball.

If it is not working.

Make the whole court the target, then return to two halves.

Block KPI. 6 out of 10 into the called half.

15–25 minutes. Backhand to two zones

Goal. Achieve the same control on the backhand side.

How to perform it.

Repeat the right/left pattern using only the backhand.

Technique.

Standard backhand.

What the coach says.

Do not add power just for direction.

If it is not working.

Feed the ball to one fixed spot.

Block KPI. 6 out of 10 into the selected half.

25–35 minutes. Random side

Goal. Teach players to read first, then move, and only then hit.

How to perform it.

The coach randomly feeds a forehand or backhand.
The student does not guess in advance: first identifies the side, moves, stops and then executes the shot.

Block KPI. 7 out of 10 in court; at least 8 contacts at a comfortable distance.

35–45 minutes. Find an open space

Goal. Start a simple tactical decision.

How to perform it.

After the feed, the coach stays left or right of center.
The student should play into the more open half rather than automatically back to the coach.

Block KPI. 5 out of 10 sensible directions.

45–55 minutes. Skinny singles with a bonus

Goal. Transfer control into play.

How to perform it.

A normal won point is worth 1 point; deliberately hitting the open half earns an additional point.

Block KPI. At least 5 deliberate attempts to play into space.

55–60 minutes. 10-ball control test

Goal. Record the result.

How to perform it.

10 random forehand/backhand feeds.

Block KPI. 7 out of 10 in court, at least 5 with deliberate direction.

Session 3. Reliable serve: accuracy, depth, direction

Result of the hour. The student serves through a repeatable routine rather than by chance and understands that consistency comes before speed.

0–5 minutes. Basic test

Goal. Get baseline numbers.

How to perform it.

10 serves without prompting. Record: legal, in court, deep, balanced after the shot.

Block KPI. Four metrics are recorded.

5–15 minutes. Consistency

Goal. Bring the basic serve to a reliable success rate.

How to perform it.

Work on only one recurring technical error.

Technique.

Standard volley serve or drop serve.

What the coach says.

One series — one correction.

If it is not working.

Drop serve instead of volley serve.
Enlarge the target zone.

Block KPI. 8 out of 10 into the correct service court.

15–25 minutes. Depth

Goal. Keep the receiver farther from the NVZ.

How to perform it.

Use cones to mark the last 1,5–2 m of the service court.
Serve at 70–80% power; the goal is depth.

Block KPI. 6 out of 10 deep.

25–35 minutes. Three directions

Goal. Change the target deliberately.

How to perform it.

Large zones: wide, body, middle.
Before serving, the student states the target aloud and only then begins the motion.

Block KPI. 5 out of 10 into the selected large zone.

35–45 minutes. Random target

Goal. Teach the player to keep the same mechanics when the task changes.

How to perform it.

The coach calls the direction immediately before the service routine.

Block KPI. 6 out of 10 land in the correct sector or near it without technical breakdown.

45–55 minutes. Serving under score pressure

Goal. Add light pressure.

How to perform it.

Serve in court—1 point, deep—2, deep to target—3, fault—0. The student tries to beat the result in the second series.

Block KPI. The second series is no worse than the first in accuracy percentage.

55–60 minutes. Control

Goal. Establish a working level.

How to perform it.

10 serves without technical cues.

Block KPI. 8 out of 10 in court, at least 5 deep.

Session 4. Return and advance to the NVZ

Result of the hour. The student returns the serve with margin and depth, then automatically begins moving forward and stops before the opponent's next shot.

0–5 minutes. 10 returns without cues

Goal. Get the baseline percentage, depth and behavior after the shot.

How to perform it.

The coach feeds at the student's working speed.

Block KPI. Record in%, deep% and the number of correct forward transitions.

5–15 minutes. Controlled contact

Goal. Stabilize the return.

How to perform it.

The coach feeds the same way.
The student contacts the ball in front, gives safe net clearance and does not try to win the point with the first shot.

Technique.

Standard return.

What the coach says.

High, deep, give yourself time to move forward.

If it is not working.

Slow down the serve.
Feed only forehand returns.

Block KPI. 8 out of 10 in court.

15–25 minutes. Deep return

Goal. Force the serving team to play the third shot farther from the NVZ.

How to perform it.

Goal — the last 1,5–2 m of the court.

Block KPI. 6 out of 10 deep.

25–35 minutes. Return → movement → split

Goal. Connect the shot to position.

How to perform it.

After contact, the student moves forward immediately.
The coach plays the next shot only after the moment when the student should perform a split-step.

Block KPI. 8 out of 10 episodes use the correct hit → move → split sequence.

35–45 minutes. Different serves

Goal. Adapt footwork to short, deep, forehand and backhand serves.

How to perform it.

The coach changes depth and side without warning.

Block KPI. 7 out of 10 returns land in court while maintaining correct movement.

45–55 minutes. Points game

Goal. Carry depth and movement to the NVZ into rally play.

How to perform it.

A bonus point for a deep return, and another for taking the correct position.

Block KPI. At least 6 out of 10 rallies begin with the correct return + advance plan.

55–60 minutes. Control

Goal. Record the result.

How to perform it.

10 returns.

Block KPI. 8 in, 5 deep, 8 correct forward movements.

Session 5. Punch volley

Result of the hour. The student plays the ball before the bounce at the NVZ with a compact motion, avoids a groundstroke-style swing and quickly returns the paddle to center.

0–5 minutes. Drill at the NVZ

Goal. Recognize a natural volley.

How to perform it.

The student is at the NVZ; the coach plays soft balls from midcourt to both sides.

Block KPI. The coach identified the main problem: swing, contact or stance.

5–15 minutes. Stance and short punch

Goal. Build the foundation.

How to perform it.

The student stands 10–20 cm behind the NVZ, paddle in front of the chest.
The coach feeds the same ball. The student makes a short push forward and immediately returns the paddle to center.

Technique.

Standard punch volley.

What the coach says.

Short forward — then back.

If it is not working.

Reduce feed speed.
Start with forehand volley only.

Block KPI. 8 out of 10 in court without a large backswing.

15–25 minutes. Forehand / backhand

Goal. Stabilize both sides.

How to perform it.

10 predetermined balls to each side.

Block KPI. 8 out of 10 on each side.

25–35 minutes. Random volley

Goal. Add direction reading.

How to perform it.

Coach randomly changes sides.

Block KPI. 7 out of 10 land in court, and the paddle returns to center after every shot.

35–45 minutes. Placement

Goal. Play not only hard, but also at the feet, middle or deep.

How to perform it.

The coach names one of three large targets.

Block KPI. 6 out of 10 into the chosen target area.

45–55 minutes. Baseline versus NVZ

Goal. Hold a strong position at the kitchen.

How to perform it.

The coach at the baseline tries to pass the student; the student does not retreat unnecessarily.

Block KPI. The student maintains NVZ position in at least 7 out of 10 episodes.

55–60 minutes. 20 random volleys

Goal. Check stability.

How to perform it.

20 balls without technical cues.

Block KPI. At least 15 controlled shots.

Session 6. First dink

Result of the hour. The student understands why soft play matters, can play straight and crosscourt dinks, and does not automatically attack every low ball.

0–5 minutes. Kitchen game without explanation

Goal. Observe the student's natural reaction.

How to perform it.

Play softly at the NVZ; the coach does not explain tactics in the first minutes.

Block KPI. Identify whether the student tries to speed up every ball, reaches with the arm, and maintains ready position.

5–15 minutes. Straight dink

Goal. Establish a short, soft motion.

How to perform it.

Both stand 10–20 cm behind the NVZ.
The coach feeds a comfortable ball after the bounce; the student plays it in front with a short forward-and-up motion.

Technique.

Standard dink.

What the coach says.

Don't hit — carry the ball.

If it is not working.

Reduce the distance between players.
First catch the ball by hand at the future contact point.

Block KPI. 10 in a row with the coach.

15–25 minutes. Crosscourt dink

Goal. Use the longer diagonal and a larger margin over the net.

How to perform it.

Play diagonally, creating direction with body position and the paddle face rather than a sharp wrist action.

Block KPI. 8 in a row.

25–35 minutes. Dink on the move

Goal. Do not reach for a wide ball.

How to perform it.

The coach gradually feeds wider. The student shuffles, plays from balance and recovers.

Block KPI. 8 of 10 contacts come after correct footwork.

35–45 minutes. Entering the NVZ after a bounce

Goal. Understand that you may enter the NVZ for a ball after a bounce.

How to perform it.

The coach feeds a short dink. The student steps into the NVZ, plays after the bounce and returns behind the line.

Block KPI. 8 out of 10 without losing balance or confusing it with a volley.

45–55 minutes. Kitchen game

Goal. Begin choosing between soft play and attack.

How to perform it.

For the first four contacts, only dink is allowed; after that, a high ball may be attacked.

Block KPI. At least 5 rallies with four controlled dinks before speeding up.

55–60 minutes. 20 dinks

Goal. Record consistency.

How to perform it.

20 balls straight/crosscourt.

Block KPI. 15 neutral or better.

Session 7. Positioning: where to stand after the serve and return

Result of the hour. The student understands the logic of the receiving and serving sides and stops choosing positions randomly.

0–5 minutes. Points without cues

Goal. See the current positional model.

How to perform it.

Play full rallies; the coach notes the student's position after the serve, return and third shot.

Block KPI. Three recurring positional errors or fewer are identified.

5–15 minutes. Receiving side

Goal. Automate return → NVZ transition.

How to perform it.

The receiver starts near the baseline, returns the serve and moves forward; the partner is represented by a cone at the NVZ.

Block KPI. 8 out of 10 correct transitions.

15–25 minutes. Serving side

Goal. Do not rush forward immediately after the serve.

How to perform it.

Serve → stay deeper → wait for the bounce return → third shot → only then begin the transition.

Block KPI. 8 out of 10 correct starting positions.

25–35 minutes. Lateral movement

Goal. Move with the ball at the NVZ.

How to perform it.

The coach first moves the ball in hand right/left and the student mirrors the movement; then real dinks are added.

Block KPI. 8 of 10 movements close the correct side.

35–45 minutes. Partner represented by a cone

Goal. Understand the space between players.

How to perform it.

The cone represents the partner. The student maintains sensible spacing and does not leave a huge middle gap.

Block KPI. 8 out of 10 scenarios show a sensible position relative to the notional partner.

45–55 minutes. Points with bonus

Goal. Transfer the position into play.

How to perform it.

A bonus point is awarded for correct positioning even if the rally is later lost.

Block KPI. At least 70% of the first three rally phases are executed with correct positioning.

55–60 minutes. Explain the position

Goal. Check understanding, not memorized footwork.

How to perform it.

The coach shows five situations; the student positions themselves and the partner and explains why.

Block KPI. 4 out of 5 explanations are logical.

Session 8. First checkpoint lesson

Result of the hour. No new skills are added. The coach measures the baseline and corrects the single most costly error.

0–15 minutes. Play and statistics

Goal. See real transfer into play.

How to perform it.

Play points. The coach tracks serve%, return%, positional errors, unforced errors and compliance with the two-bounce rule.

Block KPI. A specific table of baseline metrics has been obtained.

15–25 minutes. Choose one problem

Goal. Stay focused.

How to perform it.

Choose the error that damages the rally most: for example, a short return, late contact or poor positioning.

Block KPI. One task is defined for 10–15 minutes.

25–40 minutes. Correction

Goal. Change one measurable parameter.

How to perform it.

Repeat the technical standard and drill only for the selected problem.

Block KPI. The metric improved at least in the next series of 10 attempts.

40–55 minutes. Replay

Goal. Check transfer of the correction.

How to perform it.

Play points again, the coach barely speaks.

Block KPI. The target parameter appeared in game play at least 3 times.

55–60 minutes. Stage map

Goal. Decide whether the student is ready to move on.

How to perform it.

Record serve, return, two-bounce, NVZ, positioning and the ability to keep a simple score.

Block KPI. Benchmark: serve ≥80%, return ≥70%, rules without constant prompting.

Session 9. Serve + return as a system

Result of the hour. Connect the first two shots with depth and preparation for the third shot.

0–10 minutes. Diagnostics

Goal. Check current consistency.

How to perform it.

5 serves and 5 returns without prompts.

Block KPI. in% and deep% are recorded.

10–20 minutes. Deep serve

Goal. Push the receiver back.

How to perform it.

Serve to the standard target in the final 1,5–2 m of the service court.

Block KPI. 6/10 deep.

20–30 minutes. Deep return

Goal. Keep the server farther from the NVZ.

How to perform it.

Standard return: margin over the net, depth, then immediate movement forward.

Block KPI. 6/10 deep.

30–40 minutes. First three shots

Goal. Set up the third shot.

How to perform it.

Serve → return → controlled third groundstroke.

Block KPI. 7/10 sequences without a major error.

40–50 minutes. Direction

Goal. Add a deliberate target.

How to perform it.

Before the serve/return, the student names a large target.

Block KPI. 6/10 purposeful directions.

50–60 minutes. Points + result

Goal. Transfer it into play.

How to perform it.

Play points and track the depth of the first two shots.

Block KPI. Serve 8/10, return 8/10, at least half are deep.

Session 10. Forehand drive

Result of the hour. Speed up a comfortable forehand ball with balance and topspin control.

0–5 minutes. Diagnostics

Goal. See the contact point.

How to perform it.

10 forehand feeds.

Block KPI. The main technical error is clear.

5–15 minutes. Contact and spacing

Goal. Create consistent spacing.

How to perform it.

Work to the standards for forehand and movement to the ball.

Block KPI. 8/10 clean contacts.

15–25 minutes. Low-to-high path

Goal. Add controlled topspin.

How to perform it.

The paddle travels from low to forward and upward without a sharp wrist snap.

Block KPI. 7/10 in court.

25–35 minutes. Short ball

Goal. Move your feet to the ball.

How to perform it.

The coach feeds some balls shorter; the student moves forward and hits from balance.

Block KPI. 7/10 correct approaches.

35–45 minutes. Targets

Goal. Play to the middle/body.

How to perform it.

Two large targets, with power no higher than the level of control.

Block KPI. 6/10 into the target area.

45–60 minutes. Drive versus NVZ + test

Goal. Check the game relevance.

How to perform it.

The coach is at the NVZ; the student drives from the baseline/transition.

Block KPI. 7/10 in, at least 5 create a weak or neutral reply.

Session 11. Backhand

Result of the hour. Develop a reliable one-handed or two-handed backhand without sacrificing consistency for power.

0–10 minutes. Choosing an option

Goal. Compare a natural one-hand and two-hand technique.

How to perform it.

10 simple balls with each option.

Block KPI. A more stable option was selected.

10–20 minutes. Contact

Goal. Meet the ball in front of the body.

How to perform it.

Same feed to one target.

Block KPI. 8/10 clean contacts.

20–30 minutes. Straight

Goal. Control direction.

How to perform it.

Big target straight ahead.

Block KPI. 7/10 in.

30–40 minutes. Crosscourt

Goal. Add the crosscourt angle.

How to perform it.

Turn the direction with the body and paddle face.

Block KPI. 6/10 into the large diagonal zone.

40–50 minutes. Random FH/BH

Goal. Read the side.

How to perform it.

The coach changes direction without warning.

Block KPI. 7/10 in.

50–60 minutes. Skinny singles

Goal. Transfer the backhand into play.

How to perform it.

Play half-court with a bonus for a deliberate backhand.

Block KPI. At least 5 usable backhands in play.

Session 12. Attacking volley

Result of the hour. Distinguish a high attackable ball from a low neutral ball.

0–10 minutes. High/low recognition

Goal. Decide first, then hit.

How to perform it.

The coach feeds different heights; the student calls ATTACK/CONTROL before contact.

Block KPI. 8/10 correct decisions.

10–20 minutes. High volley

Goal. Attack a high ball compactly.

How to perform it.

Punch volley to standard, target the feet or middle.

Block KPI. 8/10 in.

20–30 minutes. Low volley

Goal. Do not turn a low ball into a risky attack.

How to perform it.

Controlled low volley with more margin above the net.

Block KPI. 8/10 in.

30–45 minutes. Random

Goal. Connect decision and technique.

How to perform it.

The coach mixes heights and sides.

Block KPI. 8/10 reasonable decisions.

45–60 minutes. Points + test

Goal. Transfer it into play.

How to perform it.

Play NVZ points.

Block KPI. 8/10 attack/no-attack decisions are sound.

Session 13. Block volley

Result of the hour. Neutralize the banger’s pace.

0–10 minutes. Slow drive

Goal. Remove fear and excess backswing.

How to perform it.

The coach hits at 40–50% speed; the student blocks in front of the body.

Block KPI. 8/10 contacts in front of the body.

10–20 minutes. Forehand block

Goal. Take pace off on the forehand side.

How to perform it.

Soft hands, target in the NVZ.

Block KPI. 6/10 low.

20–30 minutes. Backhand block

Goal. Same on the left.

How to perform it.

Minimal movement.

Block KPI. 6/10 low.

30–40 minutes. Random

Goal. Read the side.

How to perform it.

The coach alternates FH/BH.

Block KPI. 6/10 neutralized.

40–50 minutes. Block in the kitchen

Goal. Add precise neutralization.

How to perform it.

Large target zone inside the NVZ.

Block KPI. 6/10 in the zone.

50–60 minutes. Banger vs blocker

Goal. Transfer through play.

How to perform it.

The coach increases the drive to the student's working level.

Block KPI. 6/10 hard drives are neutralized.

Session 14. Dink: consistency

Result of the hour. Maintain a long soft sequence without an accidental attack.

0–10 minutes. Straight

Goal. Repeat the dink mechanics.

How to perform it.

Work to the dink standard.

Block KPI. 10 in a row.

10–20 minutes. Crosscourt

Goal. Hold the crosscourt pattern.

How to perform it.

No abrupt wrist changes.

Block KPI. 10 in a row.

20–30 minutes. FH/BH

Goal. Change sides without losing the ready position.

How to perform it.

The coach gently changes direction.

Block KPI. 8/10 neutral.

30–40 minutes. Movement

Goal. Use your feet.

How to perform it.

Wider right/left, shuffle steps.

Block KPI. 8/10 while balanced.

40–50 minutes. 20-ball challenge

Goal. Test patience.

How to perform it.

Count only an uninterrupted streak.

Block KPI. 20 in a row or two sets of 15+.

50–60 minutes. Kitchen game

Goal. Transfer it into play.

How to perform it.

Attack only after an obviously high ball.

Block KPI. At least 70% of low balls remain soft.

Session 15. Dink: direction

Result of the hour. Start moving the opponent and changing direction without making a direct error.

0–10 minutes. Crosscourt target

Goal. Reinforce the crosscourt pattern.

How to perform it.

Large crosscourt target zone.

Block KPI. 7/10.

10–20 minutes. Middle

Goal. Learn to play through the middle.

How to perform it.

Target — middle of the NVZ.

Block KPI. 7/10.

20–30 minutes. Short/deep

Goal. Vary depth inside the NVZ.

How to perform it.

The coach calls SHORT/DEEP.

Block KPI. 6/10.

30–40 minutes. 2 cross + change

Goal. Change direction after two cross-court shots.

How to perform it.

Do not make a last-moment wrist adjustment.

Block KPI. 6/10 changes without error.

40–50 minutes. Move the coach

Goal. Make the opponent move.

How to perform it.

The student chooses a wide or middle target.

Block KPI. 5 deliberate movements.

50–60 minutes. Points

Goal. Transfer through play.

How to perform it.

Points at the NVZ with a bonus for changing direction.

Block KPI. At least 5 successful tactical changes.

Session 16. Checkpoint No. 2

Result of the hour. Check serve, return, groundstrokes, volley, dink and positioning before teaching the transition game.

0–15 minutes. Technical test

Goal. Get the numbers.

How to perform it.

10 each of serve, return, forehand, backhand, volley and dink.

Block KPI. The table is completed.

15–25 minutes. Game

Goal. See the transfer.

How to perform it.

Full points.

Block KPI. The two costliest mistakes are clear.

25–40 minutes. One correction

Goal. Fix the bottleneck.

How to perform it.

Choose only one skill.

Block KPI. The next series is better than the baseline.

40–55 minutes. Replay

Goal. Check the change.

How to perform it.

The coach stays silent.

Block KPI. The skill appeared in play at least 3 times.

55–60 minutes. Transition decision

Goal. Do not move through the calendar automatically.

How to perform it.

If the fundamentals break down, repeat the relevant lesson.

Block KPI. The next stage is assigned by data, not by lesson number.

Session 17. Drop from a short distance

Result of the hour. Understand the soft drop trajectory before attempts from the baseline.

0–10 minutes. 1 m from the NVZ

Goal. Connect the drop with the familiar dink.

How to perform it.

The student slightly increases the arc and length of the motion.

Block KPI. 8/10 softly over the net.

10–20 minutes. 2 m from the NVZ

Goal. Increase distance without increasing power.

How to perform it.

Smooth forward-and-upward motion.

Block KPI. 7/10 functional.

20–30 minutes. Middle of the transition zone

Goal. Maintain softness farther from the net.

How to perform it.

Feet stable, contact in front of the body.

Block KPI. 7/10 functional.

30–40 minutes. ¾ court

Goal. Get closer to third-shot conditions.

How to perform it.

Goal — create time for a step forward.

Block KPI. 7/10 functional.

40–50 minutes. Drop → step

Goal. Link ball quality with movement.

How to perform it.

After a good drop — step forward; after a poor one — hold.

Block KPI. 8/10 move/hold decisions.

50–60 minutes. Situational points

Goal. Transfer through play.

How to perform it.

The rally begins with a feed into ¾ court.

Block KPI. 6/10 rallies end with an improved position.

Session 18. Third-shot drop from the baseline

Result of the hour. Transfer the drop to real distance after serve/return.

0–10 minutes. Baseline feed

Goal. Stabilize the trajectory.

How to perform it.

Simple feed, target into a large NVZ zone.

Block KPI. 6/10 functional.

10–20 minutes. Middle target

Goal. Simplify the geometry.

How to perform it.

Play to the middle of the NVZ.

Block KPI. 6/10.

20–30 minutes. Crosscourt

Goal. Use the larger diagonal.

How to perform it.

A little more margin over the net.

Block KPI. 6/10.

30–40 minutes. Real return

Goal. Add varying depth.

How to perform it.

The coach executes a real return.

Block KPI. 6/10 functional.

40–50 minutes. Serve → return → drop

Goal. Build the first three shots.

How to perform it.

Full sequence.

Block KPI. 6/10 third drops create a chance to move.

50–60 minutes. Live points

Goal. Test under pressure.

How to perform it.

The coach defends the NVZ.

Block KPI. At least half of sensible attempts should use a third drop instead of a random drive.

Session 19. Third-shot drive

Result of the hour. Attack a suitable return and understand large targets.

0–10 minutes. Middle

Goal. Consistent drive into a large target.

How to perform it.

Standard drive.

Block KPI. 7/10 in.

10–20 minutes. Body

Goal. Create an awkward volley.

How to perform it.

Aim at the body, not the lines.

Block KPI. 6/10 target.

20–30 minutes. Backhand side

Goal. Direct the ball to the weaker side.

How to perform it.

Large backhand target zone.

Block KPI. 6/10 target.

30–40 minutes. Short/deep return

Goal. Start by reading the terms.

How to perform it.

A drive is easier on a short high ball; do not force it on a deep low ball.

Block KPI. 8/10 reasonable decisions.

40–50 minutes. Against NVZ

Goal. Check the effect.

How to perform it.

The coach blocks at the NVZ.

Block KPI. 5/10 drives create a weak/neutral reply.

50–60 minutes. Live points

Goal. Transfer through play.

How to perform it.

Serve → return → drive.

Block KPI. 7/10 drives in, 5 useful responses.

Session 20. Drive or drop

Result of the hour. Learn to choose the third shot based on depth, height, balance and opponent position.

0–10 minutes. Clear contrasts

Goal. See the difference between situations.

How to perform it.

The coach shows a short high return and a deep low return.

Block KPI. The student names the correct decision 8/10.

10–20 minutes. Decision only

Goal. Separate reading from technique.

How to perform it.

The student does not hit at all, only says DRIVE or DROP.

Block KPI. 8/10 reasonable decisions.

20–35 minutes. Decision + execution

Goal. Connect decision and shot.

How to perform it.

After choosing, execute the corresponding standard.

Block KPI. 7/10 correct choices, 6/10 acceptable execution.

35–45 minutes. Random depth/height

Goal. Make the read harder.

How to perform it.

Coach varies depth and height.

Block KPI. 8/10 decisions.

45–55 minutes. Live points

Goal. Add the opponent's position.

How to perform it.

The coach sometimes moves away from the NVZ, changing the best option.

Block KPI. At least 70% of third shots have a clear reason.

55–60 minutes. Explain why

Goal. Check awareness.

How to perform it.

The student explains three disputed decisions.

Block KPI. 2 out of 3 explanations account for the ball and position, not ‘because someone said so.’

Session 21. Fifth shot

Result of the hour. Remove the expectation that the third shot must immediately lead to the NVZ.

0–10 minutes. Third drive → block

Goal. Get a typical fourth ball.

How to perform it.

The coach blocks the drive low.

Block KPI. 7/10 sequences continue.

10–20 minutes. Fifth drop

Goal. Neutralize after the drive.

How to perform it.

Play the next ball as a standard drop.

Block KPI. 6/10 functional.

20–30 minutes. Third drop → keep back

Goal. Learn to repeat the soft shot.

How to perform it.

The coach does not let the player move straight to the NVZ.

Block KPI. 6/10 repeat drops.

30–40 minutes. Random fourth

Goal. Choose fifth-shot drive/drop/reset.

How to perform it.

The coach changes the quality of the response.

Block KPI. 7/10 decisions.

40–50 minutes. Transition

Goal. Link the fifth shot to movement.

How to perform it.

After each fifth shot — move/hold according to ball quality.

Block KPI. 8/10 decisions.

50–60 minutes. Points

Goal. Transfer through play.

How to perform it.

Play full sequences.

Block KPI. 6/10 third+fifth sequences improve court position.

Session 22. Transition zone

Result of the hour. Learn to advance based on the quality of your own ball rather than running to the NVZ automatically.

0–10 minutes. Shadow

Goal. Learn the rhythm without a ball.

How to perform it.

Simulation: hit → move → split → read.

Block KPI. 8/10 correct stops.

10–20 minutes. Drop + 1–2 steps

Goal. Connect the shot and movement forward.

How to perform it.

After a good drop — a short advance and split.

Block KPI. 8/10.

20–30 minutes. Good/bad drop

Goal. Decide move/hold.

How to perform it.

The coach creates good and bad trajectories in advance.

Block KPI. 8/10 decisions.

30–40 minutes. Next fast ball

Goal. Do not rush through the opponent’s volley.

How to perform it.

The coach speeds up the fourth ball.

Block KPI. 7/10 contacts happen after the split, not at full running speed.

40–50 minutes. Advance to the NVZ

Goal. Build several cycles.

How to perform it.

Drop/reset → move → split repeats until the NVZ.

Block KPI. 6/10 successful transitions.

50–60 minutes. Points

Goal. Transfer through play.

How to perform it.

Full rallies.

Block KPI. 8/10 move/hold decisions are sound.

Session 23. Reset

Result of the hour. Take pace off in the transition zone and return the ball into the NVZ.

0–10 minutes. Near transition zone

Goal. Start at an easy distance.

How to perform it.

Coach attacks at 40% speed.

Block KPI. 7/10 neutralized.

10–20 minutes. Contact and soft grip

Goal. Shorten the backswing.

How to perform it.

Paddle in front, contact ahead, minimal motion.

Block KPI. 8/10 technically compact.

20–30 minutes. FH/BH random

Goal. Add reading the opponent's side.

How to perform it.

The coach changes direction.

Block KPI. 6/10 reset.

30–40 minutes. Middle transition zone

Goal. Increase the distance.

How to perform it.

Keep the same soft touch.

Block KPI. 6/10 reset.

40–50 minutes. Reset + advance

Goal. Connect it to the transition.

How to perform it.

After a quality reset, step forward and split.

Block KPI. 7/10 move/hold decisions.

50–60 minutes. Survival points

Goal. Do not try to win from a bad position.

How to perform it.

The rally begins with the coach's attack.

Block KPI. 6/10 hard balls are neutralized.

Session 24. Baseline → NVZ

Result of the hour. Connect serve, third shot, fifth shot, reset and transition into one cycle.

0–10 minutes. Serve-return-third

Goal. Start the sequence.

How to perform it.

The coach returns the serve with varying depth.

Block KPI. 7/10 third shots with a sound choice.

10–20 minutes. Third + movement

Goal. Progress based on quality.

How to perform it.

After the third shot — move/hold.

Block KPI. 8/10 decisions.

20–30 minutes. Fifth

Goal. Use the next ball.

How to perform it.

Drive/drop/reset depending on the situation.

Block KPI. 7/10 decisions.

30–40 minutes. Reset

Goal. Neutralize pressure.

How to perform it.

The coach attacks the transition zone.

Block KPI. 6/10 neutralized.

40–55 minutes. Live points

Goal. Build the complete journey.

How to perform it.

Play without stopping.

Block KPI. 6/10 suitable rallies end with reaching the NVZ without a major positional error.

55–60 minutes. Breakdown

Goal. Name the point where the transition breaks down.

How to perform it.

The student chooses the bottleneck themselves.

Block KPI. A specific episode is identified instead of a general ‘I play badly’.

Session 25. Advanced crosscourt dink

Result of the hour. Control the depth and width of a cross-court dink.

0–10 minutes. Safe height

Goal. Stability before pressure.

How to perform it.

Crosscourt sequence with margin over the net.

Block KPI. 15 in a row.

10–20 minutes. Depth

Goal. Make the dink deeper.

How to perform it.

Target closer to the opponent’s feet at the NVZ.

Block KPI. 7/10 with good quality.

20–30 minutes. Width

Goal. Pull the opponent wide.

How to perform it.

Wide crosscourt target.

Block KPI. 6/10 without going out.

30–40 minutes. Short/deep

Goal. Vary the length.

How to perform it.

Coach calls SHORT/DEEP.

Block KPI. 6/10.

40–50 minutes. Move opponent

Goal. Make the opponent move.

How to perform it.

The student chooses depth/width.

Block KPI. 5 deliberate movements.

50–60 minutes. Competitive dink

Goal. Transfer it into point play.

How to perform it.

Play to 7 only from a crosscourt position.

Block KPI. At least 70% neutral/aggressive dinks without a direct error.

Session 26. Aggressive dink

Result of the hour. Create pressure with a soft shot through depth, width and a low trajectory.

0–10 minutes. Neutral baseline

Goal. Get a control series.

How to perform it.

Standard dink.

Block KPI. 15 in a row.

10–20 minutes. Push dink

Goal. Add directed pressure.

How to perform it.

Drive the paddle slightly more actively forward without turning it into a speed-up.

Block KPI. 7/10 in.

20–30 minutes. Wide target

Goal. Stretch the opponent wide.

How to perform it.

Wide target inside the court.

Block KPI. 6/10.

30–40 minutes. Feet target

Goal. Force play below net height.

How to perform it.

Deeper toward the feet.

Block KPI. 6/10.

40–50 minutes. Neutral/aggressive choice

Goal. Choose based on the ball.

How to perform it.

On an awkward ball — neutral; on a comfortable ball — pressure.

Block KPI. 8/10 decisions.

50–60 minutes. Points

Goal. Transfer through play.

How to perform it.

Kitchen game.

Block KPI. 6/10 aggressive dinks create pressure without a direct error.

Session 27. Attackable ball

Result of the hour. Learn to distinguish a ball worth attacking from one that should be neutralized.

0–10 minutes. Green / Yellow / Red

Goal. Create a clear classification.

How to perform it.

Green: high and comfortable; Yellow: pressure is possible but risk is higher; Red: low/uncomfortable.

Block KPI. The student can explain three categories.

10–25 minutes. Name the color only

Goal. Separate reading from technique.

How to perform it.

The coach feeds different dinks; the student does not hit, only calls the color.

Block KPI. 8/10 classifications.

25–40 minutes. Color + shot

Goal. Connect the decision with the action.

How to perform it.

Green — attack, Red — soft, Yellow — controlled pressure.

Block KPI. 8/10 decisions.

40–55 minutes. Live dink rally

Goal. Recognize it in live play.

How to perform it.

The coach does not announce the ball quality.

Block KPI. 8/10 decisions.

55–60 minutes. Outcome

Goal. Formulate your own rule.

How to perform it.

The student explains which signs make a ball attackable.

Block KPI. At minimum, ball height and body balance are named.

Session 28. Speed-up

Result of the hour. Compactly speed up only a suitable ball and immediately prepare for the counter.

0–10 minutes. Slow feeds

Goal. Set the contact point.

How to perform it.

High, comfortable ball at the NVZ.

Block KPI. 8/10 in.

10–20 minutes. Forehand speed-up

Goal. Compact forehand attack.

How to perform it.

Prepare as for a dink, then use a short acceleration.

Block KPI. 7/10 in.

20–30 minutes. Backhand speed-up

Goal. Add the second side.

How to perform it.

Compact movement.

Block KPI. 7/10 in.

30–40 minutes. Body / middle

Goal. Work with large targets.

How to perform it.

The coach calls the target.

Block KPI. 6/10 target.

40–50 minutes. Disguise

Goal. Do not show the attack too early.

How to perform it.

The same preparation for a dink and a speed-up.

Block KPI. The coach guesses less than 70% before contact.

50–60 minutes. Live

Goal. Choose the ball yourself.

How to perform it.

Dink rally until an opportunity appears.

Block KPI. 7/10 attacks from a suitable ball, 7/10 in.

Session 29. Counterattack

Result of the hour. Respond to a speed-up with a counter, block or leave depending on the situation.

0–10 minutes. Predictable speed-up

Goal. Remove fear of pace.

How to perform it.

The coach speeds up toward a predetermined side.

Block KPI. 8/10 contacts in front of the body.

10–20 minutes. Forehand counter

Goal. Short response on the right.

How to perform it.

Standard counter.

Block KPI. 7/10 in.

20–30 minutes. Backhand counter

Goal. Short response on the left.

How to perform it.

Standard counter.

Block KPI. 7/10 in.

30–40 minutes. Random

Goal. Read the side.

How to perform it.

The coach changes direction.

Block KPI. 7/10 controlled.

40–50 minutes. Counter / block / leave

Goal. Add a decision.

How to perform it.

The coach mixes fast in balls, awkward low balls and out balls.

Block KPI. 7/10 decisions.

50–60 minutes. Points

Goal. Transfer through play.

How to perform it.

Kitchen points.

Block KPI. 7/10 defensive decisions are sound.

Session 30. Hands battle

Result of the hour. Maintain ready position in a fast exchange and do not accelerate beyond your own coordination.

0–10 minutes. 50% speed

Goal. A calm series.

How to perform it.

Cooperative volleys.

Block KPI. 10 in a row.

10–20 minutes. 60% speed

Goal. Speed up without a large backswing.

How to perform it.

Keep the paddle in front of the body.

Block KPI. 8 in a row.

20–30 minutes. 70% speed

Goal. Test the limit.

How to perform it.

Increase speed only while maintaining form.

Block KPI. 6 in a row.

30–40 minutes. 3-ball sequence

Goal. Return to the center after every contact.

How to perform it.

Three fast balls, then a pause.

Block KPI. 70% of sequences are successful.

40–50 minutes. 5-ball sequence

Goal. Increase the duration.

How to perform it.

Five fast balls.

Block KPI. 60% of sequences are successful.

50–60 minutes. Competitive

Goal. Game speed.

How to perform it.

Hands battle points.

Block KPI. 60% of sequences with 4+ contacts continue without a direct student error.

Session 31. Soft ↔ hard

Result of the hour. Change pace: dink → speed-up → counter → reset → dink.

0–10 minutes. Dink

Goal. Neutral base.

How to perform it.

Crosscourt/straight.

Block KPI. 15 in a row.

10–20 minutes. Dink → speed-up

Goal. Find the green ball.

How to perform it.

Speed up only the right ball.

Block KPI. 8/10 decisions.

20–30 minutes. Speed-up → counter

Goal. Wait for the response.

How to perform it.

After the attack, the paddle returns immediately to ready.

Block KPI. 7/10 readiness for the next ball.

30–40 minutes. Counter → reset

Goal. Be able to slow it down again.

How to perform it.

If the series is uncomfortable, reset into the NVZ.

Block KPI. 6/10 reset.

40–50 minutes. Reset → dink

Goal. Return to a neutral phase.

How to perform it.

Do not attack the first low ball after a reset.

Block KPI. 8/10 decisions.

50–60 minutes. Full points

Goal. Change pace freely.

How to perform it.

Full rallies.

Block KPI. 7/10 pace decisions are sound.

Session 32. Playing against a banger

Result of the hour. Do not compete for power with a power player: use block, reset, low volley and leave.

0–10 minutes. Block

Goal. Neutralize the first drive.

How to perform it.

Standard block volley.

Block KPI. 6/10 neutralized.

10–20 minutes. Block to kitchen

Goal. Make the banger move forward.

How to perform it.

Target inside the NVZ.

Block KPI. 6/10 low.

20–30 minutes. Low volley

Goal. Do not pop up the next ball.

How to perform it.

Compactly to the feet or low middle.

Block KPI. 6/10 controlled.

30–40 minutes. Leave

Goal. Do not play an obvious out ball.

How to perform it.

Coach mixes in/out drives.

Block KPI. 8/10 decisions.

40–50 minutes. Keep back

Goal. If the opponent stays back, keep the ball deep.

How to perform it.

Deep controlled volley.

Block KPI. 6/10 deep.

50–60 minutes. Points

Goal. Build a plan against a banger.

How to perform it.

The coach plays a power-oriented style.

Block KPI. 7/10 defensive decisions are sound.

Session 33. OUT-ball recognition

Result of the hour. Stop automatically playing every fast ball.

0–10 minutes. Without a paddle

Goal. Read the trajectory only.

How to perform it.

The coach hits in/out; the student calls PLAY/OUT.

Block KPI. 8/10.

10–20 minutes. With a paddle, but without hitting

Goal. Maintain the ready position.

How to perform it.

Paddle in hand, decision called aloud.

Block KPI. 8/10.

20–30 minutes. Hit only on PLAY

Goal. Add an action.

How to perform it.

Let an OUT ball go completely.

Block KPI. 8/10 decisions.

30–40 minutes. Different speed

Goal. Read the play as pace increases.

How to perform it.

The coach varies the pace.

Block KPI. 8/10.

40–50 minutes. Different spin

Goal. Do not rely on height alone.

How to perform it.

Flat/topspin options.

Block KPI. 7/10.

50–60 minutes. Points

Goal. Transfer through play.

How to perform it.

Points with a bonus for correctly leaving an out ball.

Block KPI. 8/10 decisions.

Session 34. Lob and overhead

Result of the hour. Learn to handle high balls safely and use the lob deliberately.

0–15 minutes. Overhead footwork

Goal. Don't backpedal.

How to perform it.

Turn → crossover → get under ball → stop → hit.

Block KPI. 8/10 safe approaches.

15–25 minutes. Overhead targets

Goal. Control direction.

How to perform it.

Middle / feet / open court.

Block KPI. 8/10 in.

25–35 minutes. Offensive lob

Goal. Disguise it as a dink.

How to perform it.

Same preparation, more upward movement.

Block KPI. 6/10 deep.

35–45 minutes. Defensive lob

Goal. Create time under pressure.

How to perform it.

Higher and deeper.

Block KPI. 6/10 deep.

45–55 minutes. Random dink/lob

Goal. Read the intention.

How to perform it.

The coach mixes the options.

Block KPI. 7/10 correct movement.

55–60 minutes. Outcome

Goal. Record it.

How to perform it.

10 overhead + 10 lob.

Block KPI. Overhead 8/10, lob 6/10 deep.

Session 35. Defense after a lob/overhead

Result of the hour. Survive a strong overhead and recover a neutral position.

0–10 minutes. Turn and move

Goal. Safe backward movement.

How to perform it.

Coach lobs, student turns and gets under the ball.

Block KPI. 8/10 without backpedaling.

10–20 minutes. Catch drill

Goal. For weak coordination — catch the ball first.

How to perform it.

The student runs to the ball and catches it with both hands in front.

Block KPI. 8/10 catches.

20–30 minutes. Paddle return

Goal. Return the high ball.

How to perform it.

Controlled defensive return.

Block KPI. 7/10 in.

30–40 minutes. Drop/reset after defense

Goal. Reduce pressure.

How to perform it.

Play the next ball softly into the NVZ.

Block KPI. 6/10 neutralized.

40–55 minutes. Pressure points

Goal. Start from a poor position.

How to perform it.

The coach starts with an overhead.

Block KPI. 6/10 rallies continue.

55–60 minutes. Breakdown

Goal. Set the priority.

How to perform it.

The student explains: survive first, then recover position.

Block KPI. States the correct sequence.

Session 36. Defence → neutral → offence

Result of the hour. Distinguish rally phases and do not attack from a poor position.

0–15 minutes. Survive

Goal. Don't lose immediately.

How to perform it.

The student starts under pressure in transition.

Block KPI. 7/10 rallies continue with the second ball.

15–30 minutes. Reset

Goal. Take pace off.

How to perform it.

Standard reset.

Block KPI. 6/10 neutralized.

30–40 minutes. Transition

Goal. Recover to the NVZ.

How to perform it.

Move/hold based on reset quality.

Block KPI. 8/10 decisions.

40–50 minutes. Green ball

Goal. Attack only after recovering position.

How to perform it.

The coach feeds a high ball after neutralization.

Block KPI. 8/10 attack decisions.

50–60 minutes. Live points

Goal. Change phase freely.

How to perform it.

Full rally.

Block KPI. 7/10 decisions match the defence/neutral/offence phase.

Session 37. Doubles geometry

Result of the hour. Understand middle, line, angle and positioning relative to the ball.

0–10 minutes. Position without hitting

Goal. See the geometry first.

How to perform it.

The coach holds the ball at different points; the student shows the position.

Block KPI. 8/10.

10–20 minutes. Middle

Goal. Cover the middle.

How to perform it.

Ball in the center — the pair narrows the space between them.

Block KPI. 8/10.

20–30 minutes. Sideline

Goal. Cover the line and angle.

How to perform it.

The ball went wide — both players shift.

Block KPI. 8/10.

30–40 minutes. Wide angle

Goal. Do not open the opposite side without a reason.

How to perform it.

The coach shows the likely angles.

Block KPI. 8/10.

40–50 minutes. Live movement

Goal. Add realistic shots.

How to perform it.

Dink/volley with positional focus.

Block KPI. 80% positions correct.

50–60 minutes. Situational points

Goal. Transfer through play.

How to perform it.

Start rallies from different doubles positions.

Block KPI. 80% of basic positions are reasonable.

Session 38. Pair movement

Result of the hour. Move as a single line and do not stay one-up/one-back without a reason.

0–10 minutes. Cone partner

Goal. Understand relative distance.

How to perform it.

A cone represents the partner; the student moves relative to the ball and the cone.

Block KPI. 8/10 positions.

10–20 minutes. Right

Goal. Shift right together.

How to perform it.

Ball right → player right, partner marker moves conceptually too.

Block KPI. 8/10.

20–30 minutes. Left

Goal. Same to the left.

How to perform it.

Ball left → shift left.

Block KPI. 8/10.

30–40 minutes. Advance together

Goal. Do not leave your partner alone at the NVZ.

How to perform it.

After a good drop, both players should advance in sync.

Block KPI. 8/10.

40–50 minutes. One-up/one-back correction

Goal. Recover the line.

How to perform it.

The coach creates a gap, the student chooses a safe solution.

Block KPI. 7/10.

50–60 minutes. Scenarios

Goal. Explain both players' positions.

How to perform it.

10 live situation images.

Block KPI. 8/10 explanations.

Session 39. Target selection

Result of the hour. Choose the feet, middle, weak side or open space for a clear reason.

0–10 minutes. Feet

Goal. Play low at the feet.

How to perform it.

Large target near the coach's feet.

Block KPI. 7/10.

10–20 minutes. Middle

Goal. Create uncertainty.

How to perform it.

Target between imaginary partners.

Block KPI. 7/10.

20–30 minutes. Weak side

Goal. Deliberately target the backhand/weak side.

How to perform it.

The coach identifies the weak side.

Block KPI. 6/10.

30–40 minutes. Open space

Goal. Play to where the opponent moved away from.

How to perform it.

The coach changes position before the shot.

Block KPI. 6/10.

40–50 minutes. Random choice

Goal. Choose it yourself.

How to perform it.

The student makes a decision before contact.

Block KPI. 8/10 choices have reason.

50–60 minutes. Points

Goal. Transfer it into play.

How to perform it.

After each key shot, the student can briefly state the objective.

Block KPI. 8/10 decisions have a tactical reason.

Session 40. Creating an attackable ball

Result of the hour. Do not wait for a high ball by chance; create it through a sequence of two or three actions.

0–10 minutes. Wide dink

Goal. Pull the opponent wide.

How to perform it.

Wide crosscourt dink.

Block KPI. 6/10 with good quality.

10–20 minutes. Opponent stretched

Goal. Use the weak reply.

How to perform it.

After a wide ball, play into the open space or at the body.

Block KPI. 5 deliberate sequences.

20–30 minutes. Depth change

Goal. Vary the depth.

How to perform it.

Short → deep or deep → short inside the NVZ.

Block KPI. 6/10.

30–40 minutes. Direction change

Goal. Change direction at the right moment.

How to perform it.

Do not change things just for the sake of change.

Block KPI. 6/10.

40–50 minutes. Two-shot pattern

Goal. Plan two shots ahead.

How to perform it.

The first player moves the opponent, the second creates a weak reply.

Block KPI. 5 successful patterns.

50–60 minutes. Points

Goal. Check real value.

How to perform it.

Count only attackable balls created by the student.

Block KPI. At least 5 per play block.

Session 41. Three third-shot options

Result of the hour. Choose drop→advance, drive→fifth drop or drive→pressure according to the situation.

0–15 minutes. Drop → advance

Goal. Basic soft-game pattern.

How to perform it.

Third drop, move, split.

Block KPI. 6/10 successful transition starts.

15–25 minutes. Drive → fifth drop

Goal. Use power to force a weak block, then soften the next ball.

How to perform it.

Third drive, coach block, fifth drop.

Block KPI. 6/10 sequences.

25–35 minutes. Drive → pressure

Goal. Continue pressure on a high response.

How to perform it.

Drive, step in, attack next high ball.

Block KPI. 6/10 logical continuations.

35–50 minutes. Random returns

Goal. Choose the model independently.

How to perform it.

The coach varies depth/height.

Block KPI. 8/10 choices.

50–60 minutes. Points

Goal. Transfer through play.

How to perform it.

Full rallies.

Block KPI. 8/10 third-shot model decisions reasonable.

Session 42. Different opponent types

Result of the hour. Change the game plan rather than playing the same way against everyone.

0–10 minutes. Banger

Goal. Take pace off.

How to perform it.

Block, reset, leave out.

Block KPI. At least 2 changes are identified.

10–20 minutes. Soft player

Goal. Do not rush; move the opponent.

How to perform it.

Patience, width, create high ball.

Block KPI. 2 tactical changes.

20–30 minutes. Weak backhand

Goal. Build pressure on the weak side.

How to perform it.

Target backhand without reckless risk.

Block KPI. 2 changes.

30–40 minutes. Fast hands

Goal. Do not feed comfortable speed-ups.

How to perform it.

Feet/body, change direction, patience.

Block KPI. 2 changes.

40–50 minutes. Baseline player

Goal. Do not let the opponent move forward for free.

How to perform it.

Keep deep, attack space.

Block KPI. 2 changes.

50–60 minutes. Mixed simulation

Goal. Recognize the style without announcing it.

How to perform it.

The coach changes style.

Block KPI. For 4 of 5 profiles, the student adapts consciously.

Session 43. Game plan

Result of the hour. Create and adjust a match plan.

0–10 minutes. Playing without a plan

Goal. Establish a baseline.

How to perform it.

Full points.

Block KPI. Error/success statistics are available.

10–15 minutes. Analysis

Goal. Identify 5 items in the plan.

How to perform it.

Serve target, return target, third-shot preference, attack target, risk to avoid.

Block KPI. The plan is stated specifically.

15–35 minutes. Play to a plan

Goal. Execute the intention.

How to perform it.

The coach counts attempts to apply the plan.

Block KPI. 70% intended patterns attempted.

35–40 minutes. Adjustment

Goal. Change the part that is not working.

How to perform it.

The student proposes a change.

Block KPI. There is a specific adjustment.

40–55 minutes. Second block

Goal. Check adaptation.

How to perform it.

Play again.

Block KPI. Decision quality is no worse than in the first block.

55–60 minutes. Outcome

Goal. Separate the plan from the score result.

How to perform it.

The student evaluates execution, not only win/loss.

Block KPI. Can state what was completed and what was not.

Session 44. Spin

Result of the hour. Use topspin, backspin and sidespin only after basic control has been established.

0–15 minutes. Topspin

Goal. Control the low-to-high path.

How to perform it.

Contact in front, movement from low to high without a sharp wrist snap.

Block KPI. 7/10 in.

15–25 minutes. Backspin

Goal. Add a low trajectory/change of bounce.

How to perform it.

The paddle moves more from high to forward and down with a controlled open face.

Block KPI. 7/10 in.

25–35 minutes. Sidespin

Goal. Add sidespin without losing accuracy.

How to perform it.

A small lateral component, large targets.

Block KPI. 6/10 in.

35–45 minutes. Read spin

Goal. Read the coach's ball.

How to perform it.

The student names the spin type before/immediately after the bounce.

Block KPI. 7/10 correct.

45–55 minutes. Live application

Goal. Use it with a purpose.

How to perform it.

Topspin for pressure, backspin for changing pace, and so on.

Block KPI. At least 5 purposeful applications.

55–60 minutes. Outcome

Goal. Do not confuse spin with quality.

How to perform it.

If spin reduces accuracy below 70%, reduce the difficulty.

Block KPI. 7/10 spin shots in.

Session 45. Backhand 2.0

Result of the hour. Check whether a two-handed backhand provides a real advantage for this particular student.

0–10 minutes. Benchmark

Goal. Measure the current backhand.

How to perform it.

10 drive, 10 counter, 10 soft balls.

Block KPI. Baseline percentages are available.

10–20 minutes. Two-hand setup

Goal. Set your hands.

How to perform it.

For a right-hander, the right hand is lower and the left helps stabilize and accelerate.

Block KPI. 8/10 clean contacts.

20–30 minutes. Drive

Goal. Compare consistency.

How to perform it.

Big goal.

Block KPI. Comparable or better in%.

30–40 minutes. Counter

Goal. Compare the quick response.

How to perform it.

Compact two-hand counter.

Block KPI. Comparable or better control%.

40–50 minutes. Soft/attack

Goal. Understand the use cases.

How to perform it.

Dink/speed-up only when the option is comfortable.

Block KPI. No deterioration in basic control.

50–60 minutes. Decision

Goal. Keep only what is useful.

How to perform it.

Compare consistency, control, speed and defense.

Block KPI. A new option remains only if it has an objective advantage in at least one dimension without failing the others.

Session 46. ATP and Erne

Result of the hour. Recognize rare attacking situations and execute them without violating the NVZ.

0–15 minutes. ATP recognition

Goal. Recognize when the ball has gone wide enough.

How to perform it.

The coach feeds a wide ball; the student initially only says ATP/NO.

Block KPI. 8/10 recognition.

15–30 minutes. ATP technique

Goal. Go around the post without forcing too early.

How to perform it.

Let the ball travel wide and make contact around the post along the available trajectory.

Block KPI. 5/10 functional.

30–40 minutes. Erne footwork

Goal. Safely take position outside the NVZ.

How to perform it.

Start without the ball, with special attention to the NVZ boundary and momentum.

Block KPI. 8/10 without a fault.

40–50 minutes. Erne ball

Goal. Add an appropriate ball.

How to perform it.

The coach provides a predictable setup.

Block KPI. 5/10 functional.

50–60 minutes. Situations

Goal. Do not chase a trick at any cost.

How to perform it.

Mix regular options with ATP/Erne opportunities.

Block KPI. 8/10 opportunities correctly recognized; execution may remain at 5/10.

Session 47. Disguise

Result of the hour. Make preparation less readable and keep several options available until a later phase of the motion.

0–15 minutes. Dink / speed-up

Goal. Same preparation.

How to perform it.

Until the final part of the motion, the paddle looks the same.

Block KPI. The coach predicts less than 70% in advance.

15–25 minutes. Straight / cross

Goal. Do not reveal direction with the body too early.

How to perform it.

Same base, the goal changes later.

Block KPI. 6/10 control.

25–35 minutes. Drive / drop

Goal. Keep a similar early preparation for the third shot.

How to perform it.

The decision depends on the ball, not on a preselected swing.

Block KPI. 7/10 correct decisions.

35–45 minutes. Coach guesses

Goal. Check readability.

How to perform it.

The coach states the prediction aloud before contact.

Block KPI. The prediction is correct less than 60% of the time on good balls.

45–60 minutes. Live points

Goal. Transfer it into a match.

How to perform it.

The student uses disguise only from a balanced position.

Block KPI. At least 5 episodes where a late choice creates an advantage.

Session 48. Singles: fundamentals

Result of the hour. Understand the deep serve, return, recovery and passing shot on a full court.

0–10 minutes. Match diagnostic

Goal. Recognize natural positions.

How to perform it.

Short singles block.

Block KPI. 2 main positional errors are identified.

10–20 minutes. Deep serve

Goal. Push the opponent back.

How to perform it.

Large deep target zone.

Block KPI. 6/10 deep.

20–30 minutes. Deep return

Goal. Get time for recovery.

How to perform it.

Deep return with margin.

Block KPI. 6/10 deep.

30–40 minutes. Recovery

Goal. Return to the center of likely responses.

How to perform it.

After each shot, the coach indicates a possible next angle.

Block KPI. 8/10 positions.

40–50 minutes. Passing shot

Goal. Pass around an approaching opponent.

How to perform it.

Large line/cross targets.

Block KPI. 6/10 in.

50–60 minutes. Points

Goal. Transfer through play.

How to perform it.

Singles points.

Block KPI. 80% reasonable recoveries.

Session 49. Singles: attack

Result of the hour. Move the opponent and use the open court, approach and passing shots.

0–10 minutes. Move opponent

Goal. Create space.

How to perform it.

Wide-to-wide patterns.

Block KPI. 5 successful movements.

10–20 minutes. Open court

Goal. See the open space.

How to perform it.

The coach moves, and the student plays into open space.

Block KPI. 6/10 choices.

20–30 minutes. Approach shot

Goal. Move to the NVZ behind an appropriate ball.

How to perform it.

Shot + advance + split.

Block KPI. 7/10 sequences.

30–40 minutes. Passing line/cross

Goal. Choose the passing shot.

How to perform it.

The coach moves toward the net.

Block KPI. 6/10 in.

40–50 minutes. Combination

Goal. Two shots to create space.

How to perform it.

The first player moves the opponent, the second attacks the open court.

Block KPI. 5 sequences.

50–60 minutes. Points

Goal. Transfer through play.

How to perform it.

Full singles.

Block KPI. 7/10 attacking decisions have tactical logic.

Session 50. Singles: strategy

Result of the hour. Analyze the match independently and adjust serve, return and third-shot patterns.

0–10 minutes. Match

Goal. Get real-world material.

How to perform it.

Play to a notional 7.

Block KPI. There is a list of successful/failed patterns.

10–15 minutes. Self-analysis

Goal. The student speaks first.

How to perform it.

What works? Where are you losing points?

Block KPI. Specific reasons are identified.

15–25 minutes. Serve pattern

Goal. Choose direction/depth.

How to perform it.

Plan for the next rallies.

Block KPI. 70% of attempts execute the plan.

25–35 minutes. Return pattern

Goal. Change the return.

How to perform it.

Depth/direction tailored to the opponent.

Block KPI. 70% execution.

35–45 minutes. Third/approach

Goal. Choose the next step.

How to perform it.

Drive/drop/approach based on the situation.

Block KPI. 7/10 decisions.

45–60 minutes. Second match + result

Goal. Check the change.

How to perform it.

Play again.

Block KPI. The student can explain what changed and what will be trained next.

Session 51. Tournament simulation

Result of the hour. Maintain decision quality when keeping score, trailing, leading and during a timeout.

0–10 minutes. Pre-match routine

Goal. Prepare independently.

How to perform it.

Equipment, water, shoes, court warm-up, venue conditions and first tactical priorities.

Block KPI. The student completes the routine without a prompt.

10–20 minutes. 0–0

Goal. Settle into the match calmly.

How to perform it.

First points without unnecessary risk.

Block KPI. Decision quality matches a normal training session.

20–30 minutes. 8–8 / 9–9

Goal. Work at an even score.

How to perform it.

Short pressure games.

Block KPI. No sharp increase in reckless attacks.

30–40 minutes. 2–7 behind

Goal. Do not force every ball.

How to perform it.

The player starts from behind.

Block KPI. Keeps to the chosen game plan.

40–50 minutes. 8–3 ahead

Goal. Do not become passive.

How to perform it.

The player starts with the lead.

Block KPI. Maintains a normal level of initiative.

50–60 minutes. Timeout + result

Goal. Diagnose a match independently.

How to perform it.

Answer: what is happening, why, and what am I changing?

Block KPI. Three answers are specific and tied to observable rallies.

Session 52. Final exam

Result of the hour. Evaluate technique, decisions, match play and the student's ability to analyze the game independently.

0–15 minutes. Technical test

Goal. Get the final percentages.

How to perform it.

Serve 10, return 10, drive 10, drop 10, dink 10, volley 10, reset 10.

Block KPI. Serve 8/10; return 8/10; drive 7/10; drop 6/10 functional; dink 8/10 neutral+; volley 8/10; reset 6/10.

15–30 minutes. Decision test

Goal. Test the decision without a predetermined task.

How to perform it.

Coach feeds high/low, short/deep, fast/soft, wide/middle.

Block KPI. 8/10 reasonable decisions.

30–50 minutes. Match

Goal. Check complete-game execution.

How to perform it.

The coach stays silent and records serve, return, third-shot choice, transition, NVZ position, soft/hard game, defence, out decisions and adaptation.

Block KPI. There is no single recurring error that completely breaks the rally; decisions match the student's level.

50–55 minutes. Self-analysis

Goal. Check independence.

How to perform it.

What created the advantage? Where were more points lost? Which error was technical and which tactical? What should be trained next?

Block KPI. Answers are specific and confirmed in match play.

55–60 minutes. Final profile

Goal. Create the next development cycle.

How to perform it.

Оценка 1–10: serve, return, forehand, backhand, volley, dink, drop, drive, reset, transition, position, attack, defence, decisions, doubles, singles, competition, self-analysis.

Block KPI. Set 2–3 priorities for the next training cycle.

Coach's main KPI

The student should leave the session with three answers: what improved for me today, why it matters in play, and what I should do on my own in the next game.

If a student can perform a drill only from a comfortable coach feed but the skill disappears in free play, the learning process is not complete. The final block of most sessions deliberately returns the skill to a game situation.

После каждого четвёртого занятия полезно пересматривать приоритеты. Программа не обязывает переходить к следующему номеру, если предыдущий навык остаётся главным ограничением.

Rules and safety

Техническая методика не заменяет действующие правила. Для официального соревнования и спорных эпизодов используйте актуальный свод правил и регламент конкретного турнира. На сайте опубликован отдельный раздел с правилами.

Open pickleball rules →

Book a private training session PROpickleball coaches Exercise