Question: How far from the net should I be to be ready for volleys or overheads?
Answer: On average, the best distance from the net in preparation for volleys or overheads is halfway from the net to the service line. Once the ball comes off your opponent's racquet, you should move forward to intercept the volley or possibly back to reach the overhead. If your opponent is much better at lobbing than hitting low passing shots, play as much as four feet farther back. If she has a terrible lob, encourage her to try it by playing as much as three feet closer to the net: she'll probably reward you with some easy overhead opportunities, and being a little closer to the net will help you put volleys away.
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