Third Shot Drop: Technique and Strategy

Key Points

• The third shot drop is the next shot after your opponents first return the ball: you serve, they return and then you hit your third shot drop
• You have to let the third shot after the serve bounce
• Depending on the type of shot you get and personal preference, you can decide whether to drive or drop on the third shot
• 1. Soft hands on the grip to absorb the pace
• 2. Continental to slightly eastern with an open paddle face
• 3. Absorb the pace using the legs to get under the ball and hit into the kitchen zone
• It’s better to miss the drop long as opposed to in the net, so you’re at least making your opponent hit a winner and not making an unforced error
• For tough returns, it can be easier to drive that ball and then drop the 5th ball
• If your feet are set and you have time, go for the drop
• Communicate with your partner regarding when you want to advance and move forward, or stay back and defend/absorb
• Megan uses cue words ‘WATCH’ for move back and defend, or ‘GO” for move forward and attack
• Your goal for the third shot drop is to get to the kitchen line