Learning To Watch The Ball:

All professionals say "watch the ball". But, did you know that there is a

certain way of watching the ball. During a rally your opponent will be either

in front, behind, or parallel to you. There is only one way to watch in each

of these circumstances.

When your opponent is in front of you, it is easy to see where and when your

opponent is going to hit the ball. The secret is to stay as close to your

opponent as possible, without crowding, as he or she is striking the ball.

This adds mental pressure to your opponent because by doing this your

opponent knows you're ready, especially for a drop. If your opponent is in

front, remember the drop is the most likely shot to be executed. And this

means trouble. So get close to your opponent when he or she is in front of

you.

When your opponent is next to you or behind you, try not to look directly at

the ball. Use your peripheral vision. The reason to do this is that it may

be physically impossible to follow a fast crosscourt and turn your head at the

same time. Use your eyeballs instead of your head and neck. A good reference

point is the serve line that runs across the floor of the court. Follow the

ball with your eye to this line and then lock your eye at the serve line area

and let your peripheral vision track the ball to your opponent's racquet.

The only exception is if you've hit a high length shot that comes off high on the

back wall. In this instance you need to watch your opponent closely. Just make

sure you're watching from the front while on the "T".