Every competitive junior squash player is always seeking ways to gain the upper hand on the court – the Volley Combo Drill is one of the most effective.
The tactic is often under-practised in Squash, but one of the best ways to do that is by developing volleying skills.
Volleying isn’t just about flash; it’s about taking control of the rally, owning the T, and mentally wearing down your opponent.
That’s where the Volley Combo Drill comes in. This high-intensity, skill-sharpening exercise trains your reflexes, racquet prep, and movement under pressure – all essential qualities for winning at a high level.
Why the Volley Matters at Junior Level
Think about the best players you’ve faced. What do they do well? Chances are, they take time away from you, cut off your shots, and control the centre of the court. That’s the power of a solid volley game.
Strong volleying can:
- Disrupt your opponent’s rhythm
- Turn defence into attack
- It helps you dominate rallies without having to run all over the court
- Boost your confidence, especially early in a match
But it doesn’t come naturally – it’s trained. Repeatedly. And with purpose.
The Volley Combo Drill Explained
This two-player drill focused on rhythm, control, and sharp movement. It works on both sides of your game and simulates real rally conditions.
Setup:
- Start with one player feeding from the T.
- Both players stay alert, close to the T.
Execution:
- Player A feeds a soft lob towards Player B.
- Player B volleys down the line (forehand or backhand, depending on the side).
- Player A volleys the return cross-court.
- Player B moves across and volleys down the line again.
- Repeat the sequence, alternating sides.
You should feel a consistent flow: down-the-line, cross-court, down-the-line… It’s like a dance — one that’s going to make you match-ready.
Coaching Points: Play Like a Pro
- Racquet Preparation: Get your racquet up early, above shoulder height. Preparation is everything at pace.
- Compact Swing: No huge backswings. Keep it short and snappy.
- Balance: Stay low and centred. Don’t lean into your shots or overcommit.
- Footwork: After each volley, return to the T quickly. Stay light on your feet and ready to move.
- Controlled Aggression: Hit with purpose, but don’t overhit. Precision beats power.
Advanced Variations
If you want to take this drill to the next level, try the following progressions:
1. Speed Variation
Increase the pace of the feeds. This simulates high-level match play and trains your reactions.
2. Movement Focused
After each volley, return to a marked T-position (use a cone or tape) before moving into the next shot.
3. Solo Wall Version
Use a side or front wall to practise alternating forehand and backhand volleys by yourself. Focus on rhythm and control.
4. Add Targets
Place targets (cones, tape, markers) in the corners to aim your volleys. This builds accuracy under pressure.
Game-Day Impact: Turning Drills Into Wins
Imagine this: your opponent hits a weak cross-court. Instead of stepping back and letting it bounce, you take it early, volley it into the opposite corner, and stay on the T. They’re scrambling. You’re in control.
That’s what the Volley Combo Drill prepares you for. The more you practise it, the more natural these aggressive, early-take options become.
Match Application
Using volleys effectively in a match allows you to stay dominant on the T and disrupt your opponent’s rhythm. Instead of letting the ball bounce and retreat, you’ll stay aggressive and cut off shots early. This drill helps you become that kind of player.
Mindset: Build the Right Habits Early
Too many juniors wait for the ball to come to them. The best juniors go to the ball. They create pressure, play on the front foot, and back themselves in the middle of the court.
Train the way you want to play. This drill doesn’t just build skills — it builds belief. Every volley you hit in training adds to your match-day confidence.
Final Challenge
Try this – Do the Volley Combo Drill for 3 minutes non-stop. Keep the rally alive, keep your movement sharp, and focus on every contact. Can you do it without an error? Can you stay calm and accurate even when tired?
Record your progress over time. See how long you can keep the rally going at full pace with a partner.
Final Thoughts
If you’re serious about levelling up your game, make the Volley Combo Drill part of your weekly routine. It’s not just a skill-building drill; it’s a mentality shift. You’re training yourself to stay on the front foot, to think quickly, and to play smarter squash.
Get volleying, Stay sharp, and Own the T.