Lesson 4: Key Rules and Fouls to Know

Knowing what is allowed — and what is not — keeps the game fair and fun. **The Serve (very important!):** - The serve must be **underhand** — the server bounces the ball once on the ground, then strikes it **at or below waist height (1.06 m)** - At least **one foot must stay on the ground** behind the service line — no jumping or running - The ball must travel **diagonally** into the receiver's opposite service box - Each server gets **two attempts**; missing both is a **double fault** and costs a point - A serve clipping the net that lands correctly is a **let** and is replayed **During a Rally:** - You can hit the ball **before it bounces (a volley)** or after **one bounce only** - After bouncing, the ball may rebound off **your own walls** before you play it — this is legal! - A returned ball must **clear the net**; once on the opponents' side it may bounce and rebound off their walls **You lose the point if you:** - Let the ball **bounce twice** on your side - Hit the ball into the **net** or out of the enclosure - Strike the ball so it hits the **opponents' fence or wall before bouncing on their ground** - Touch the **net or opponents' court** while the ball is live