A soft shot hit on a bounce from the NVZ intended to arc over the net and land within the opposing NVZ either straight across or diagonally crosscourt.
An effective dink arcs downward as it crosses the net, creating a more difficult shot to return than a power shot.
Dinks that land close to the net are the most difficult to return because of the steep angle required to get the ball over the net.
Crosscourt dinks are easier because the net is lower in the center and you can force their opponent off the court, potentially opening a hole.
Contact the ball in front of the body with the paddle face open, using a gentle lifting (pushing) motion.
The shot is soft and controlled with movement from the shoulder, no wrist break and minimal or no backswing to avoid overpowering the ball.
Be patient. Continue to dink until the opponent makes a mistake. If the ball is hit too high, there is a good chance for a put-away shot.
Basics – Drop Shots
The drop is a soft shot hit off a bounce from deep in the court, intended to land in the opponents’ NVZ, preferably close to the net.
Allows the hitting team to follow the shot to the NVZ line. It is the primary 3rd shot, giving the serving team the opportunity to approach the net after the return of serve, but can also be effective anytime the opponents are at the net.
One of the more difficult shots to master.
Face the net and hit the ball underhand in front of the body, lofting it in an arc over the net. The ball should arc before reaching the net so it lands near the opponent’s feet within or at their NVZ line.
Move toward the net after hitting the ball. If you don’t make it all the way to the NVZ line by the time your opponent hits the ball, stop and assume the ready position in preparation for the next shot, then quickly continue to the NVZ line.
