The volley, a fundamental Pickleball skill, is a shot hit in mid-air before the ball bounces. It's typically used offensively from a position near the net to gain control of the rally. Here's a breakdown of the volley technique for both forehand and backhand strokes, along with tips for handling high and low volleys:

The Ready Position:

• Split Step: As your opponent prepares to hit, perform a split step – a small hop with both feet facing your opponent. This creates a balanced stance for quick reaction.
• Paddle Up: Hold your paddle in front of you, close to your body, with the paddle face slightly open.
• Weight Distribution: Balance your weight evenly on both feet for better control over your movements.

Forehand Volley:

1. Turn and Pivot: As the ball approaches, rotate your body and pivot your feet towards the incoming ball. Keep your paddle ahead of you, angled in the direction of the shot. Make a slight backward pull of the paddle.
2. Step and Meet the Ball: Take a step forward with your non-dominant foot, transferring your weight forward. Meet the ball with your paddle at waist height and angle it to direct the shot towards your opponent's side court (away from their body).
3. Minimize Follow-Through: Avoid an extensive follow-through after contact. A small follow-through helps maintain control and allows for quicker reaction to your opponent's next move.

Grip: While various grips are possible, the continental grip provides good reach for angled shots, especially for low volleys.

Backhand Volley:

1. Sideways Stance: The backhand volley is played with a more side-on posture than the forehand. Turn sideways as the ball approaches, bringing your paddle back.
2. Step, Under and Up: Step forward with your dominant foot (same side as your paddle hand) to meet the ball. Swing your paddle underneath the ball and angle it upwards to direct it back over the net. Maintain a firm wrist and keep the paddle face up.
3. Optional Follow-Through: A slight follow-through can add power to the shot, but focus on control over force.

Grip: The continental grip offers the most control, but two-handed or backhand grips can also be effective.

High Volleys:

• Forehand: Slightly raise your shoulders to reach above the ball and hit it downwards with a punching motion. Maintain paddle control after contact to prevent the ball from dipping into the net.
• Backhand: Play this shot sideways with good timing. Extend your free arm for balance and squeeze the grip as you hit the ball. You can use your other hand for extra support or place your thumb on the back of the grip for stability.

Low Volleys:

• Forehand: Lunge forward with your non-dominant foot and bend your knees to get lower. Keep your head up and paddle face down to hit underneath the ball. The ball's momentum will help lift it over the net. Maintain a straight back and keep the paddle head above your wrist.
• Backhand: Approach the ball sideways and step forward with your dominant foot. Bend your knees and lower your body to hit the ball. Hold your body position steady and freeze your paddle momentarily for precise control. Keep the paddle head above your wrist.

Practice Makes Perfect:

• Shadow Volley Drills: Mimic the volley motion without a ball to perfect your footwork and paddle positioning.
• Partner Volley Drills: Practice volleys with a partner, gradually increasing pace, distance and complexity.
• Wall Drills: Volley against a wall or rebounder to improve hand-eye coordination, control, and reaction time.

By mastering the volley and its variations, you'll gain a significant edge at the net, putting pressure on your opponent and dictating the flow of the game.