This pickleball drill helps players improve volleying skills by alternating between cooperative and competitive play. It also incorporates scoring strategies to add focus and intensity.

Setup:

Play is restricted to cross-court rallies on half the court.
Players alternate between the even and odd sides of the court.
One player is designated as the volleyer for the entire first game.

Drill Format:

Part 1: Even Side

1. Odd Points (Cooperative):

• Players rally cooperatively, focusing on volleys or dinks.
• The rally determines the point value for the upcoming even point:
  • If the rally lasts 4 volleys or dinks, the next even point is worth 4 points.
  • If the rally lasts 3 volleys or dinks, the next even point is worth 3 points, and so on.
    > The maximum point value is 4.

2. Even Points (Competitive):

• Players play competitively to win the point, using the point value set by the preceding odd rally.
• For example, if the odd rally reaches 4 volleys, the winner of the even point earns 4 points.

Part 2: Odd Side

• Repeat the same format on the opposite side of the court (odd side).

Game Play:

• Play up to 25 points.
• After the first game, switch roles so the other player becomes the volleyer for the next game.

Focus Areas:
Cooperative odd points encourage control, consistency, and precision in volleys and dinks.
Competitive even points simulate match play pressure and reward strategic volley placement.

Benefits:

• Sharpens volleying skills in both cooperative and competitive contexts.
• Encourages players to transition smoothly between consistency-focused and point-winning play.
• Builds stamina and mental focus by incorporating both rally-building and competitive scoring.

This drill is an engaging way to develop all-around volleying proficiency while keeping players focused on both precision and strategy.