I received this question from a guy called Kevin from Sheffield the other day.

Q. What are some good drills and or tactics for putting away mid-court shots? In my last match I noticed that when my opponent hit some balls that landed around the service line, my shot in reply seemed to set him up to pass me. From the mid court, I want to at least move my opponent and try to set up a volley closer to the net that I can put away.

A. Kevin,this is a good question because, while it seems like these mid-court balls ought to be easier to handle, they present problems for a lot of players.

Why is that?

I believe it is because players hardly ever practice this shot, as opposed to baseline rallies anyway. When you recognize that a ball will be landing short, move forward immediately and set up to hit the shot quickly. Often this quick movement and preparation will “freeze” your opponent. In contrast, if you arrive late to the mid-court area and are not prepared to play the shot, then usually your response is easily spotted.

Further, poor preparation often translates into a rushed attempt. Another tip would be to play the ball near the peak of the bounce. When you allow the ball to descend after the bounce, then it gives your opponent additional time to get in position to scramble AND it forces you to play the shot from a lower perspective. Instead, play it early and from a high position so that you can pound the ball (down) into the court. Be certain to practice these shots diligently. As you become more proficient in handling them, it will help you in other areas of the court as well. When you have earned a short ball, knowing that you are in position to finish the point with emphasis is definitely a confidence builder.

So get a friend, or your coach to feed you the mid court ball for you to practice.Remember also that it is always better to hit this ball down the line as opposed to cross court in terms of the angle of your opponents reply.Obviously nothing is "set in stone" and you have to be able to also hit cross and deep and croos and short angle.

Technique wise it is also better to use a shorter backswing as the court becomes smaller as you move nearer to the net - but don't forget that all so important finish to your stroke, which will then lead your body to move forward for the next shot, be it a volley, drop or smash.

You could do this on your own by feeding your self a short high ball, starting from the service line and then gradually working back.

Now get out there and DO IT!!