Pickleball Net Play Offense & Defense
Practical Training Lesson Plan
Training Objective
This lesson focuses on improving players’ ability to attack and defend effectively at the non-volley zone (kitchen). Through structured drills, players will develop better reaction speed, control, positioning, and decision-making during net-front exchanges.
Warm-Up (10 Minutes)
• Light jogging and lateral shuffles
• Shoulder, wrist, and ankle mobility exercises
• Short dink rallies at the kitchen line to build touch and control
Goal: Activate muscles and establish soft hands before high-speed net play.
Drill 1: Net Positioning & Ready Stance
Purpose: Build correct posture and balance at the net.
How to Practice:
• Players stand just behind the non-volley zone line
• Knees bent, paddle up, elbows in front of the body
• Coach feeds slow balls for controlled volleys
Coaching Points:
• Maintain a low, athletic stance
• Keep weight slightly forward
• Recover to ready position after every shot
Drill 2: Controlled Volley Exchange (Offense vs Defense)
Purpose: Improve consistency and control during fast net rallies.
How to Practice:
• One player attacks with medium-speed volleys
• The opposing player focuses on blocking and resetting the ball
• Switch roles after 2–3 minutes
Coaching Points:
• Use short, compact swings
• Absorb pace rather than swinging hard on defense
• Aim for consistency, not power
Drill 3: Soft Reset Under Pressure
Purpose: Train defensive resets from difficult positions.
How to Practice:
• Attacking player applies controlled pressure
• Defensive player practices soft blocks back into the kitchen
• Focus on touch and paddle angle
Coaching Points:
• Relax the grip
• Open the paddle face slightly
• Let the ball drop into the non-volley zone
Drill 4: Attack Selection at the Net
Purpose: Improve decision-making for offensive shots.
How to Practice:
• Coach feeds balls at varying heights
• Players attack only balls above net height
• Lower balls must be reset or dinked
Coaching Points:
• Recognize attackable balls
• Avoid forcing shots below net level
• Aim at opponents’ feet or open spaces
Drill 5: Reaction Speed & Reflex Volleys
Purpose: Enhance reaction time during rapid exchanges.
How to Practice:
• Close-range volley exchanges
• Coach randomly feeds faster balls
• Players maintain paddle-up readiness
Coaching Points:
• Stay relaxed
• Use minimal backswing
• Keep eyes focused and hands active
Cool-Down & Review (5 Minutes)
• Light stretching
• Group discussion on key takeaways
• Emphasize patience, control, and smart shot selection
Key Teaching Summary
Successful net-front play in pickleball depends on balance, quick reactions, soft hands, and smart decisions—not raw power.
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