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Chiquita
neutralintermediatealso called Chiquita
A soft, low ball aimed at the feet of the net team. Forces a defensive volley and disrupts opponents' aggression.
🎯 When to use it
- \u2713You're stuck at the baseline and the opponents are owning the net.
- \u2713You need to break up their rhythm without lobbing (which gives them an overhead).
- \u2713Opponents are crowding the net and have closed off the angles.
\u26a0\ufe0f Common mistakes
- \u2717Hitting it too high — gives opponents a free swinging volley.
- \u2717Hitting it too short — into the net.
- \u2717Using only the chiquita — predictable opponents start crashing the net early.
🏆 Technique — step by step
- 1Compact swing — almost a pushed block. Use the shoulder, not the wrist.
- 2Aim just over the net so the ball lands at the feet of the closer opponent.
- 3Backspin is your friend: a slight slice keeps the ball low.
- 4Disguise the shot by setting up as if you'll drive or lob.
💡 Pro tip
Pair the chiquita with the globo. Two well-placed chiquitas in a row, then a globo — opponents won't know whether to charge or back up.
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