First Volley Position

The first volley is often defensive. The returner has time to prepare and may hit a surprisingly aggressive return, so the server's first volley position must balance aggression with defensive readiness. Unlike a conventional net position where you stand at the service line, the first volley position is deeper—typically 6-8 feet from the net.

This deeper position serves a purpose: it gives you time to react to a hard return and prepares you for a potential passing shot down the line or cross-court. A serving team that rushes to the net too aggressively often gets passed—they don't have enough time to process an aggressive return.

After landing the serve, the server's movement toward the net should be controlled and deliberate. Don't sprint full-court to the net; instead, take one or two steps forward and establish a ready position. This allows you to read the return's speed and direction before committing fully to net offense.

The first volley position also depends on the serve itself. After a weak first serve (especially second serve), you might hold slightly deeper and be more defensive. After a strong first serve that pushes the returner back, you can edge forward more aggressively because the return is likely slower.

Once the returner strikes the ball, the first volley becomes reactive. If the return is aggressive, you're in a defensive posture—blocking, slicing, or passing back. If the return is weak, you transition to an aggressive posture and finish the point. The first volley position prepares you for both scenarios.