ABSTRACT

Tennis is a game of many skills. Serves, groundstrokes, and volleys are just a few examples. Each skill is composed of various parts or elements that, if executed correctly, contribute to successful performance of the skill. The beginning tennis player will not be accustomed to hitting a ball with an extra 27 inches of length in the hand. The hand-eye coordination developed in performing skills such as catching a ball will need to be modified somewhat because of this extra length. Players who play primarily from the baseline and who want to impart more topspin on the ball may use the western forehand grip to advantage. The drop shot is an off-speed shot that lands just over the net and dies before the opponent can reach it. Drop shots can be played from the baseline, in which case the player should disguise the shot by going through the same mechanical preparation as any other groundstroke.