About Joe Rill Expertise Can answer questions related to coaching and playing tennis including stroke production, skill evaluation, group drills, player evaluation, planning and record keeping, mental toughness, first aid and minor health issues, social aspects of club tennis, tennis rules and regulations, and tennis courtesy. I no longer desire to answer questions on "How to become a Pro."
Experience Forty years total playing experience including: 25 years tournament play, three year tennis club tennis director; former racket stringer; Graduate Vandermeer Tennis Univ I; Virginia HS League certified coach; Asst Tournament Director
Expert: Joe Rill Date: 5/21/2008 Subject: slice and backspin return
Question Hello
Help, My tennis partner relies (successfully so) on slice shots, I have a very hard time getting pace on returning those shots. I ending playing His game. I end up playing an almost defense game. I have learned to beat him sometimes. But I can rarely get the balling I have a strong forehand but hardly get to use it as everything coming over the net spins away from me?
Any thoughts or suggestions I would great appreciate.
Thanks
Troy
Also I am trying to develop a two handed backhand needless to say, It is extremly difficult for me to return his slice shots with it.
Answer Hi Troy,
Because the slice uses underspin, it seems to float; it comes to you slower; and it skids when it hits the court. Therefore it bounces lower. It is not usually an offensive stroke unless it is coupled with the opponent’s being out of position. It is also a very accurate and safe shot. Here are some things you can do against it.
Hit the ball as deep as you can. This gives you the most time before the return gets back to you. Thus you have more time to get into position for your own return.
When the ball comes back short or slow, move forward and take it early forcing your opponent to rush his return. An added advantage is that the ball is higher for your two handed backhand. Try to emphasize your follow through by wrapping it around your head.
Come to the net as much as you can and volley the ball with sharp angles or deep to the opposite side of the court.
