ART-0695: The Volley Against the Return with Extreme Shortness — Handling Dink Returns
Executive Summary
Dink returns are very short, soft returns that land just over the net, forcing the net player to move forward and handle a difficult low ball. When you are the net player facing a dink return, you must explode forward, get low, and use a soft touch to handle the ball. Dink returns are a common tactic to neutralize aggressive net players by denying them pace to redirect.
The Dink Return
The dink return: (1) is hit very short (just over the net), (2) is hit with minimal pace, (3) forces the net player to move forward and generate their own pace. At the net, the dink return is challenging because the soft pace gives you no pace to redirect and the short distance forces extreme forward movement.
Technique for Handling Dink Returns
Against dink returns: (1) explode forward from your split step, (2) get low with deep knee bend, (3) use a soft touch to handle the ball, (4) open the racket face to lift the ball over the net, (5) aim for depth or a drop shot of your own. The key is quick forward movement and soft hands.
Common Errors
Not moving forward (waiting for the ball). Not getting low enough (frame shots). Hitting the ball too hard (errors). Not using a soft touch (the ball goes long). Giving up on the point.
Summary
Dink returns demand quick forward movement and soft touch. Explode forward, get low, and use soft hands to handle the ball.
Diagnostic & Training Matrix
| Observation | Failure | Result | Corrective Strategy |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cannot reach dink returns | Late recognition, slow movement | Missed volleys | Explode forward immediately |
| Hits dink returns too hard | No soft touch | Errors | Use soft hands, light grip pressure |
| Cannot get low enough | Poor knee bend | Frame shots | Bend knees deeply |
| Gives up on dink returns | Poor mental approach | Lost points | Always attempt recovery |
Practical Application: "Explode Forward, Get Low, Soft Touch"
Against dink returns: (1) explode forward, (2) get low, (3) use soft touch. Quick forward movement and soft hands are the keys.