Game version
Court follow-the-leader: one person leads a movement around the court and the group copies. Swap the leader each time.
Return Split-Step Timing
Time your split step so you land just as the server hits the ball.
By Coach Evan Waechtler Youth coach (U11, Cache Valley, Utah) and founder of SSTracker Updated October 30, 2026
Set up
Stand in your return spot.
Core: As written. Aim for smooth form and compare only with your own last time.
- Ages
- 11 and up
- Time
- 10 min
- Players
- You and a partner
- Space
- Gym or court
- Bring
- Racket, balls, court, partner
- Level · skill
- Developing · Footwork
The steps
How it works
- Stand in your return spot.
- Start a small hop forward as the server's racket goes up.
- Land as the ball is struck and push toward it.
- Do 20 returns and ask your partner if your timing matched.
Coaching point
Land as they hit.
Safety: Wear court shoes and keep loose balls off the court while you move.
Make it fun
Play it, don't drill it
Challenge
Pick a level: Less (slower or smaller), Core (as written), More (one extra twist). Aim for smooth form and compare only with your own last time.
Story
You are an explorer crossing the court like a jungle.
My best
Beat your own count
Aim for smooth form and compare only with your own last time. Only your own number counts: today against last time.
Practice makes progress
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