Should I Stay or Should I Go?

"The Clash" song is asking that question about a romantic relationship.

Tennis players are asking that question of themselves many dozens of times in the course of a match as it relates to moving from the rallying position in the backcourt to an aggressive position in the forecourt (playing at the net).

When I ask students what should trigger their foray from the baseline area forward to the net to win the point with a volley, the general response is, "well, ummm after I hit a really hard ball, I run up to the net for a volley"!

The only trouble with that thought is that it is a grossly generalized guideline.

What is a "really hard ball"? The effect of that shot must be weighed against the level of the player you are planning to attack and your position relative to your own baseline when you strike your shot.

Imagine you are five feet behind your baseline and you smack a ball for all you are worth, then run forward to hit a volley. Where are you going to be positioned when that ball comes back over the net toward you?

Unless you happen to be an Olympic level sprinter, you'll still be behind your service line (half court line)  trying to dig a ball out of your shoes or desperately diving to reach a ball angled sharply crosscourt or blistered down your sideline.

To paraphrase Falstaff- Discretion is the better part of valor- In even more simple terms- avoid conflict unless you are pretty darn sure you can win it!

Here's what that means to you as a tennis player: only advance to the net once the opponent has presented you with a ball that has drawn you (stable and balanced) at least slightly inside your own baseline and one that can be played decisively enough to elicit a weak reply.

By waiting for the correct ball to launch your attack, you will give your opponent less time to react to your shot, and will have allowed yourself plenty of time to advance to a  much more formidable volleying position and to then execute a well-timed split step. That sequence will allow an in-balance and controlled reaction to the opponents response, and give you a better chance to hit a winning volley.

If you apply that simple concept you'll have answered the question – should I stay or should I go?