Activity 58: Volley relay on wall

Activity summary

Players in teams or pairs take turns volleying a ball against the front wall, racing to the back wall then back to hand off—building volley control, timing, agility, and teamwork.

Activity setup

  • Groups of 3+ (or pairs) each with rackets and one shared ball.
  • One player stationed at front wall, next at back wall, etc.

What to do:

  • Player 1 starts volleying from the front wall, moving toward the back wall while keeping volleys going.
  • Reaches back wall, hands to next teammate; they repeat back to front.
  • In pairs, one does front→back→front before switching.
  • Each player completes one length on backhand and one on forehand before returning to start.

Activity video

Watch this video to see the session in action.

Coaching Tips

  • Use a relaxed grip to control rebounds.
  • Keep racket face open for lift and control.
  • Hit at waist–chest height, tracking the ball for timing.
  • Strike slightly in front and prepare follow-up early.
  • Recoil racket promptly to set up the next volley.

Make it easier

  • Use a sponge ball, allow bounces, or permit an extra string bounce per volley.

Make it harder

  • Move further from wall; use floor targets players must stay behind.
  • No hands: roll ball from racket to racket between teammates.
  • Turn it into a timed race between teams.

Safety

Use the STEP framework—Space, Time, Equipment, and People—to adjust difficulty.

Ensure clear lanes along the wall, and that under-18s wear protective goggles.