How to Beat the Banger with Just One and a Half Shots

Are you tired of feeling like target practice every time someone blasts some balls at you?

Most seniors struggle with bangers because they try and hit it back way too hard or they get too intimidated up here at the net.

If your opponent winds up and you brace for impact instead of preparing your next play, I want to show you how something I call “one and a half shots” that can help you stay calm, stay safe, and stay in control against even the fiercest bangers.

Understanding the Banger

Let’s start by defining the banger. This is the player who hits hard, early, and often—usually from the baseline and then right through the middle of the court. Their primary strategy is pace.

And if you’re an intermediate player still developing your reflexes and shot control, this style of play can feel overwhelming.

Here’s the thing: when you try to match their speed, you lose. That’s why the first tool I teach is the block volley.

The First Shot: The Block Volley

Most players instinctively react to a drive by swinging back hard. That’s a punch volley—and while it has its place, it often plays right into the banger’s hands. Instead, what you need is a block volley. It’s soft. It’s controlled. And it’s all about one thing: grip pressure.

Think of your grip on a scale from 1 to 10, with 10 being a death grip and 1 being barely holding on. For an effective block volley, aim for a grip pressure around 3. You’re not swinging, you’re absorbing.

The paddle acts more like a cushion than a wall. And when done right, your return drops gently into the non-volley zone—out of reach for a powerful reply.

The Half Shot: Letting It Go

Now, let’s say your block volley isn’t perfect. It floats a little high or lands around midcourt. You might expect the banger to keep hammering—and you’d be right. But here’s where the half shot comes in: sometimes, your best response is no shot at all.

Yes, let the ball go.

If your opponent is coming in from midcourt with power, the court has gotten shorter—and their margin for error just shrank. Let those high-speed shots fly. Many will go long. Sure, you might misjudge now and then, but over time you’ll start to recognize patterns. The key is to observe, adjust, and trust yourself.

If you keep trying to return everything, you’ll end up being the banger’s huckleberry—doing exactly what they want.

Practice With Purpose

Next time you’re drilling or playing, focus on two things:

1. 1. 1. Softening your grip to master the block volley. Practice without swinging. Just meet the ball and absorb the pace.

      2. Observing shot outcomes. Let a few fastballs go and take note of where they land. Build your confidence in letting go.

Consistency comes from clarity and calm. You don’t need to “beat” the banger at their own game. You need to invite them into yours.

Want to get more out of your game?

Download the free Prepare to Play Guide to help you mentally warm up and bring your best self to the court.

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