The poach is a job
for both the net player and the server. Both players play an
important role in a successful poach. This article will outline
the roles of the server and the net player.
The Server
Serve the ball up the middle.
Serving the ball up the middle will cut off the opponents
down-the-line return. Poaching is much easier when you are not
worried about your opponent crushing the return by you. Serving
the ball up the middle also forces the returner to hit the
return up the middle. It is very difficult for a player to hit
an inside out return.
Serve to your opponents weakness.
Attacking an opponents weakness will ensure that they do not hit
their best returns.
Net Player
Identify the poach opportunity early. The ability to see the
right times to poach is half the battle. Hitting the ball is the second half.
First step is towards the net (not sideways). Many players make the
mistake of moving sideways to poach. Notice in the video below, the players first step is towards the net.
Do not swing at the ball.
Good technique on your volleys is extremely
important. The best poachers on tour do not swing at their volleys. They get power from their
legs and forward momentum to angle off the volley.
Aim for the
opponent's feet. If they return a ball that was hit at their
feet, the only place their ball can go is up. Giving you an opportunity to put the ball away
on your second volley.
Recover Quickly. Never assume the point is over. After the poach, recover and
get ready for the next ball. If the poach was successful, then you should be able to put the ball
away on the second volley (if not the first).
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