USTA Serve & Return Mechanics 3

Question 1

In serve placement strategy, what is a serve hit 'up the T' referring to?

Accepted Answer

A serve aimed at the center service line, between the returner's forehand and backhand

Answer

A serve 'up the T' is targeted at the center service line (the T-junction), splitting the returner's sides and limiting angle on the return.

Question 2

How does a kick serve's topspin affect its bounce compared to a flat serve?

Accepted Answer

It bounces higher and curves away from the returner

Answer

A kick serve's heavy topspin causes the ball to bounce higher and kick away from the returner, pushing them off the court and creating a difficult return angle.

Question 3

What is a 'body serve' and when is it most strategically effective?

Accepted Answer

A serve directed at the returner's hip or torso, jamming them and limiting swing room

Answer

A body serve targets the returner's hip or midsection, making it difficult to generate a full swing and often producing a weak, short return.

Question 4

What is the 'serve plus one' tactic in tennis strategy?

Accepted Answer

Planning the point to win with the second shot after the serve

Answer

Serve plus one means the server plans the serve to set up a specific third shot (the second ball after the serve) to win the point, often directing the serve to create a predictable return.

Question 5

When teaching beginners the serve grip progression, what grip should a coach introduce before the continental grip?

Accepted Answer

Eastern forehand grip to build comfort and early success

Answer

Many coaching progressions begin with the eastern forehand grip for beginners because it feels natural and allows them to make consistent contact before transitioning to the continental.

(USTA) United States Tennis Association Certified Coach Practice Test

(USTA) United States Tennis Association Certified Coach Practice Test

USTA Serve & Return Mechanics 3