If you’ve ever watched a high-level pickleball match and wondered how do they generate so much spin up at the net, then you’re in for a treat. Our friend and coach Will East demonstrates this technique perfectly in the video below. And once you see it in action, you’ll realize it’s not just flash, it’s a weapon.
In this article, we’re breaking down how to hit a topspin forehand volley using Will’s signature “figure eight” swing path. We’ll talk technique, wrist action, contact point, paddle angle, targets, and when to use it.
The Figure Eight: Your Swing Blueprint
The foundation of this technique is something deceptively simple: draw a horizontal figure eight (∞) with your paddle head. This shape helps guide the swing path to:
- Start low under the ball
- Brush upward through contact
- Finish high, rolling the wrist over to impart spin
Why the “Eight” Works
The figure eight allows for smooth acceleration, especially through the bottom half of the motion. It naturally sets up the low-to-high brushing motion you need for topspin, while keeping your swing compact and repeatable. Plus, it loads your wrist and forearm like a spring, ready to snap through contact.
Check out Will as he demonstrates the figure 8 swing technique for hitting a topspin forehand volley:
1. Grip: The Eastern Advantage
To pull this off effectively, use an eastern forehand grip—like you’re shaking hands with your paddle. This grip allows:
- Optimal paddle face tilt to brush under the ball
- Natural wrist lag and release
- Easy transition to roll over the ball post-contact
Avoid a continental grip here—it flattens your contact and robs you of spin potential.
2. Mechanics Step-by-Step
Let’s break down the motion:
- Preparation
- Paddle in front of you
- Knees bent, ready to move forward or laterally
- Weight slightly on the balls of your feet
- Paddle tip angled down slightly (not open)
- Start the Bottom of the Eight
- Drop your paddle under the anticipated contact point
- Load your wrist and forearm—this is your power coil
- Brush Up Through Contact
- Swing up and forward, following the figure-eight path
- Your contact point should be in front of your body, roughly chest-high
- Brush up the back of the ball—not slap it
- Finish the Top of the Eight
- Let your wrist roll naturally over the ball
- Finish with the paddle tip pointing where you want the ball to go
- Follow through high, almost like a windshield wiper motion
3. Bonus: High vs. Low Ball Adjustment
Whether the ball is at your knees or shoulder-height, use the same figure-eight motion—just shift the height of the loop to match the ball.
This consistency gives you muscle memory and lets you attack from multiple positions without changing technique.
Where to Aim: Targeting with Topspin
Topspin volleys give you the luxury of control plus aggression. Here’s how to aim smart:
| Target | When to Use | Why It Works |
|---|---|---|
| At the opponent’s feet | When they’re transitioning or defending from midcourt | Ball dips quickly thanks to topspin—forces a pop-up |
| Inside-out to the sideline | When opponent overcommits middle | Heavy spin helps the ball bend wide |
| Down the middle | Against bangers or fast hands | Spin helps you stay aggressive but keep the ball low |
| Top shoulder or paddle side hip | In hand battles at the net | Spin and speed jam their reaction time |
Topspin also lets you clip the net safely. You can aim just above the tape and still get the ball to dip inbounds—a game-changer in fast exchanges.
When to Use the Topspin Volley
While it’s tempting to hit this every chance you get, timing and context matter. Use it when:
- You’re in attack mode at the net (not scrambling)
- The ball is sitting up or rising slightly
- Your opponent is off balance or caught mid-transition
- You’ve set it up with a dink or third-shot drop
Avoid it when:
- You’re on your heels
- The ball is below net height and you’re stretching
- You haven’t established control in the rally
Think of it as your finishing blow—the volley version of a topspin groundstroke.
Troubleshooting Common Mistakes
| Mistake | Fix |
|---|---|
| Paddle face too open (ball floats long) | Close the paddle slightly; brush up more vertically |
| No spin, just slap | Focus on brushing under and up, not punching |
| Hitting into the net | Don’t cut off your swing—finish high to lift the ball |
| Timing feels off | Practice shadow swinging the figure eight without a ball to build rhythm |
Pro Tip: Make It Muscle Memory
Want this shot to feel natural in a real match? Practice the figure-eight motion in front of a mirror or with shadow swings for just 5 minutes a day. Focus on a smooth swing path and how your wrist and paddle move through the loop.
The more you repeat it, the more your body locks it in—so when the moment comes, you won’t have to think, you’ll just hit.
Topspin That Finishes, Not Flashes
Adding a topspin forehand volley to your game is more than just a flashy trick, it’s a way to dictate pace, apply pressure, and finish points without overhitting. With Will East’s figure-eight technique, an eastern grip, and the right paddle, you’ll be slicing through defenders like butter.
Whether you’re rolling it low at their feet or ripping it to their shoulder, spin gives you the confidence to stay aggressive and consistent.
Now go watch the demo, practice your eights, and start turning defense into offense at the kitchen line.
