Tipbit #33 - FIFTH SHOT

 

We all know that getting to the kitchen is crucial, especially as you increase your level of play. In this tipbit I’m talking about the infamous third shot and the flourishing Fifth Shot as an alternative way of obtaining this goal.

 

Some pros and RFPBA members may feel that this classic third shot drop scenario may need to be altered to give them at least an equal or better chance to win the point. But, this third shot drive option has never been given much credence, until recently! Watching the pro women’s doubles final two weeks ago from Bristol, Tennessee I saw Anna Leigh Waters and Catherine Parenteau using the third shot drive option to their advantage on many points.

 

So, if you members feel that hitting an effective third shot drop from the baseline is just not in the “cards” for you, or you discover early in a game that one (or both) of your opponents struggle to volley effectively off your drive, then by all means use the third shot drive as frequently as possible until they figure out a way to stop it. Many times, their weak reply will give you a better chance to hit an easier drop shot on your Fifth Shot, still getting you to the net, just a couple of shots later. But, do keep in mind, you risk that your opponent will angle off your drive for an easy winner. However, if he or she doesn't have a shot that can hurt you or they return your drive midcourt or with less pace, you are now in a much better position to take the net because your Fifth Shot Drop is now going to be hit under your terms. And, this should be a whole lot easier to make!

 

One final tip about the third shot drive, almost 100 percent of the time you should drop your next ball (the Fifth Shot). One mistake so many RFPBA members make is trying to drive the fifth and even seventh shot. Once your opponent gets your third shot drive back, make the smart decision and drop the Fifth Shot and transition to the kitchen. I partnered up with George twice last Tuesday night and watched him execute this above strategy very effectively.

 

                                    C’ ya on the Glen Park courts, President Lueck