Earlier we discussed ways on how to play against players who have defensive strategies. We’ve learned that with choppers and blockers, it’s important that you vary your game to where it’s not predictable.

But how do you play against someone who loves to loop or counterdrive?

If playing against choppers requires you to be patient, then playing against loopers is the complete opposite!

These aggressive players are constantly looking for a chance to unleash a deadly kill shot. To beat these players, you have to be just as aggressive as they are when playing the shot.

The goal here is to put the looper on the defensive mindset instead of allowing him to play offensive.

In other words, turn the tables on ‘em.

Keep playing the ball either short to where he has no choice but to push the ball. Or you can place the ball more towards the middle so you can keep this player from using his strengths.

Counterdrivers are speed fanatics. Nothing gives them more pleasure than trading rallies with someone who play the same way. The faster the play the better this player plays.

So in order to frustrate this opponent, you must try to slow the game down.

Look to give this player varying shots of chops and pushes. Since this player thrives on light to no spin, use heavy spin.

Study this player’s movements to see if they’re heavy on the feet. If so, place the ball more towards the middle where he has to decide whether to play it with a backhand or forehand.

Your comments are encouraged. Please leave a comment or suggestion on successful strategies you’ve used playing against offensive players.

You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.