Volleying is a science based on the old geometric axiom that a
straight line is the shortest distance between two points. I mean
that a volleyer must always cover the straight passing shot since
it is the shortest shot with which to pass him, and he must
volley straight to his opening and not waste time trying freakish
curving volleys that give the base- liner time to recover. It is
Johnston's great straight volley that makes him such a dangerous
net man. He is always "punching" his volley straight and hard to
the opening in his opponent's court.
A net player must have ground strokes in order to attain the net
position. Do not think that a service and volley will suffice
against first-class tennis.
I am not a believer in the "centre" theory. Briefly expressed the
centre theory is to hit down the middle of the court and follow
to the net, since the other player has the smallest angle to pass
you. That is true, but remember that he has an equal angle on
either side and, given good ground strokes, an equal chance to
pass with only your guess or intention to tell you which side he
will choose.
I advise hitting to the side-line with good length and following
up to the net, coming in just to the centre side of the straight
returns down the line. Thus the natural shot is covered and your
opponent's court is opened for an angle volley 'cross. Should
your opponent try the cross drive, his chances of beating you
clean and keeping the ball in court are much less than his
chances of error.
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