Tipbit #34 – Drive It
In Tipbit #33 I suggested that you might not drop your Third Shot, but drive it instead and then possibly dropping your Fifth Shot. So, in this tipbit I’m going to present FIVE circumstances that would dictate when to hit a controlled Third Shot Drive and not a Third Shot Drop.
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Drive the ball >
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When you have a strong deep serve that lands near your opponent’s baseline and your opponents strike their return from behind the baseline, they will probably be caught in motion in the transition area. You should then drive the ball to their feet.
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When your opponents’ return is a high short sitter; be offensive and aggressive and drive the ball.
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When you’re confident with your power, drive the ball. RFPBA members John Bergman and Richard Petefish use this tactic; driving the ball low and hard directly at the weaker opponent, their opponents’ right hip/shoulder area or down the middle. It’s often a clear winner or they are then set up for an easier Fifth Shot.
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When your opponent hits a low slice return (I often like to slice my returns) or the ball has significant side spin, it’s very hard to drop that ball into their kitchen, so drive that ball and drop the Fifth. I’ve notice even expert members like Teri Anderson have some trouble trying to drop my slice return.
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When your opponent hits a really deep return it’s very hard to hit a third shot drop from behind your baseline. Plus, even if you are successful, it’s still very difficult for you to get to the NVZ line (example #1) starting from behind the baseline, so drive that ball.
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If nothing else, my tipbit should make you aware of the importance of identifying your opponents’ position on the court, their strengths and abilities, the depth and spin of the incoming ball.
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C’ ya on our Greenwood courts, President Lueck