If you’ve ever faced an opponent who loves slamming hard drives from the baseline, you know how frustrating it can be to keep up with their pace. But don’t worry—there’s a strategy (or two!) for that.

In this post, we’ll share two essential techniques to handle hard-hitting “bangers” and take control of the game. These strategies, straight from our latest video, will help you turn their power into your advantage and keep them on their toes.


The 2 Strategies to Stop Hard Hitters

  1. Master the Strong Block
    A well-executed block can take the sting out of your opponent’s drive and send the ball right back to the baseline. This defensive move doesn’t just neutralize their power—it also resets the point and gives you time to regain control.How It Works:
    • Position your paddle slightly in front of your body to absorb the incoming drive.
    • Use a soft grip and controlled motion to redirect the ball back to the baseline.
    • Stay balanced and ready for the next shot.
    Pro Tip: Practice absorbing pace without adding extra power—let the banger’s momentum do the work for you.
  2. Deploy the Perfect Drop Shot
    Want to break their rhythm entirely? The drop shot forces bangers to abandon their baseline comfort zone and rush forward to the net. This shift in positioning can leave them scrambling, giving you the upper hand.How It Works:
    • Aim for a soft, low shot that lands just over the net.
    • Focus on consistency over flashiness—the goal is to make them move, not risk a mis-hit.
    • Follow up by preparing for their return to stay one step ahead.
    Pro Tip: Mix up your strategy—switching between blocks and drop shots keeps your opponent guessing and disrupts their game plan.

Watch the Full Video for Live Demonstrations

Ready to see these strategies in action? In the video, Coach Jeff and Angela break down each technique with:

  • Real-Time Demonstrations to show how these strategies work during gameplay.
  • Slow-Motion Replays to highlight key movements and adjustments.
  • Animated Court Diagrams with tracer lines to map out positioning and shot placement.

🎥 [Watch the Video Here! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LpNe9ml7iOg

These techniques aren’t just defensive—they’ll help you turn the tables on hard hitters and dictate the pace of the game.


Why These Strategies Work

Hard hitters, or “bangers,” rely on their ability to overwhelm you with speed and power. By mastering the block and the drop shot, you’re effectively taking away their biggest advantage and forcing them into positions they’re less comfortable with.

Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced player, these adjustments can transform your ability to handle pressure and keep you in control of the match.