Table Tennis Serve and Third-Ball Attack
A table tennis tactics drill where the server uses the serve to set up an easy return and then attacks on the third shot. Students learn how the type of serve shapes the return it draws and make decisions to win the point.
How to play
- Put 4 students at each table, or 3 if you have enough tables; explain the idea in 3 minutes with a demo: serve, return, and attack.
- Phase 1, 6 minutes: the server hits a short serve to the opponent's backhand; the receiver pushes it back, and the server attacks with a forehand to a target cone on the table.
- Phase 2, 6 minutes: the server hits a long, fast serve; the receiver returns it however they can, and the server must place the third shot on the opposite side from where the return came.
- Every 5 serves, switch roles: the server becomes the receiver, and the two waiting students collect balls and watch which serve produces the easiest return.
- Phase 3, 8 minutes: play games to 7 points in which the server scores 2 points if they win the point on the third shot.
- Finish with 1 minute for each student to choose their best serve and third-ball combination.
Rules
- Serve with the ball resting on an open palm and toss it upward; don't hide it behind your body.
- Students who aren't playing stand to the side of the table, out of the paddle's path.
- Only collect balls between points and walk, without ducking under another table in play.
Variations
Easier
The receiver always returns to the same spot to make the attack easier.
Standard
Use a short or long serve, a free return, and double points for third-ball winners.
Harder
The receiver may attack the serve, and the server must defend or attack depending on the return.
Adaptations
- Limited mobility: the student serves and attacks from their spot, with the target cone placed on the side they reach most easily.
- Autism: use cards showing the three-shot sequence and keep it the same in every phase.
- Fitness or skill level: beginners attack with a well-placed push instead of a hard hit.
Learning goals
- Choose a serve based on the return you want to draw.
- Attack accurately on the third shot toward open areas.
- Analyze serving tactics in racket sports.
Equipment for a class of 25
- ping-pong tables: 6
- paddles: 26
- ping-pong balls: 30
- cones: 12
Teacher tip
Many students always serve the same way, so ask them what return they want and which serve would produce it. A cone on the table as a target makes success visible.
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