The main job of the receiver is to return the serve at the net players feet. This forces the net player to hit the volley up which is a low percentage shot. This is not only a difficult shot but a less offensive shot.

Where Should you Return Your Serve:

1. Play to your opponents weakness. If your opponent has a volley weakness on one side or the other,concentrate on that side.

2. Keep the ball down the middle to minimize the chance for an angle volley.

4. Use the return as an approach shot and drive to the net position. This putting you in an offensive position.

5. Lob to the backhand side.

6. Change your return up if what you are doing is not working. Don’t keep doing the same thing over and over with the same poor results.

Different Return of Serves:

a. stand closer to the net, catch the ball early give the net player less time to react
b. stand farther from the net, give yourself more time to react to what the net player is doing
c. hit the ball harder, flat or topspin
d. hit the ball softer, slice or chip the return, many players would rather hit a volley off a hard return so don’t give it to them.
e. hit with angle
f. hit down the middle

Once your opponent is at the net don’t feel like you have to hit a winner to beat him. Make your opponent win the point. Your opponent doesn't win just because he goes to the net. Play smart, stay cool and hit a good shot with good placement. Remember 80% of points are won off mistake not winners.

Laura Farris http://www.yellowballfever.com I am the creator of yellowballfever.com. This blog has video tennis lessons which focus on tennis stroke development. We also discuss exercises and stretches that promote muscles that will enhances play on the tennis court.