ART-0698: The Volley Against the Return with No Pace — Handling Soft, Floating Returns

Executive Summary

Soft, floating returns with minimal pace are a gift to the net player — they allow an aggressive volley with full control. When you are the net player facing a soft return, you must move forward, take the ball early, and hit an aggressive drive volley or punch volley to finish the point. Soft returns are a mistake by the returner — punish them with decisive net play.

The Soft, Floating Return

The soft, floating return: (1) has minimal pace, (2) floats in the air (easy to track), (3) gives the net player time to set up. At the net, the soft return is an opportunity to attack — move forward, take the ball early, and finish the point.

Technique for Handling Soft Returns

Against soft returns: (1) move forward quickly to take the ball early, (2) use the drive volley or punch volley (you have time for a full swing), (3) aim for the open court or the opponent's feet, (4) step into the ball for power, (5) use a firm wrist. The key is to be aggressive — the soft return is your opportunity to finish the point.

Common Errors

Not moving forward (waiting for the ball instead of attacking). Using a block volley instead of a punch or drive (missing the opportunity). Not aiming for the open court (hitting to the opponent's strength). Not stepping into the ball (weak volley).

Summary

Soft returns demand aggressive net play. Move forward, take the ball early, and hit a drive volley or punch volley to finish the point.

Diagnostic & Training Matrix

Practical Application: "Move Forward, Take Early, Attack"

Against soft returns: (1) move forward quickly, (2) take the ball early, (3) attack with a drive volley or punch volley. The soft return is a gift — punish it.