Playing Against Short, Young Kids

Hi guys, 

There are a lot of young kids that compete in tournaments in my area. They are good players that are around my level. Many of them are younger than ten years old and have not yet grown to be able to reach the net. Their styles usually are loop everything and attack quickly. My question is how to get an advantage on these players. I understand that a very short serve will usually help me because of their short arms.

I understand that running away from the table is not sound strategy. However, a very good lobber at my club said that if I give an extra high lob, with lots of topspin, deep on the table will bounce and take off quickly so the short player will have to let the ball come down. By that time he will either make an error trying to smash it, or will have to back off the table give me the offense for free. Do you think that this is a good idea in addition to the short serve? Thanks.

Hi Anthony,

It can be an effective tactic but not a good long term development plan for yourself.

Try play wide balls.  You can even try to serve long fast and wide.