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Show ; ' - . . ;.0 - ,j ' - . ' ' , '. ' . " . f .' "' ,, ,. ' . O' ' '' - , .' ', t v . - ' ' , -, . ; " - .' vs ; v v - k : : , . V V ' - TTtV v v - o" :' ' ' -.. o tJlin'- . c a , , MMMMM,M,i.,MM Return of serve by Bob McBroom, head tennis pro, Park Meadow Racquet Club The serve and the return of serve make up about 75 percent of the winning shots in club tennis. With this in mind, club players should practice serves and returns as well as forehand and backhand. But because it is more fun to rally than to double fault, few players practice serve and return. However among those who make the winner's circle this kind of practice is common. Here are a few hints to improve and practice your return: 1. Make sure you lean into your return shot: A good practice is to move forward to the net as soon as the server makes contact with the ball. 2. If you have a problem hitting the net on return of serve, chances are you're hitting the ball too far in front of you. Try to be more patient, turning your shoulders to hit the ball more to the side. 3. Make a short backswing and block the ball back rather than try to make a winner. 4. When playing singles, try to make your return deep (the follow through can help here). Work on your cross-court return for doubles-it's doubles-it's the most effective shot. |