The closer you are to the net, the more offensive opportunities you have available. Still, net play involves a lot of "defense" to respond to your opponent's passing shots, deep lobs and other attacks.

Your role at the net is very similar in some ways to that of a hockey goalie who must defend his net. Goalies move to cut down opponents' angles of attack, stay on the edges of their skates and crouch slightly, ready to spring in any direction to block the puck. Use these same principles in tennis. Always position yourself to cut down an opponent's angle of attack. Keep your weight forward and stay on your toes. This keeps you poised to intercept passing shots and ready to run down lobs.

Protect the net like a hockey goalie and you will be able not just to defend against shots, but to score, too!