Keep your eyes on the ball. Use both hands whenever you can. Don't reach for the ball if you can get it easier by moving your feet first. Get your body behind the ball if at all possible. Catch it if you can, otherwise punch it away. For balls on the ground, either crouch and kneel with one leg sideways to the ball to stop it, or place both legs in front of the ball and bend over. For shots taken at stomach or chest height get your body behind the ball, cradle it with your hands while allowing your body to give on impact to prevent bounces. For balls coming head high or higher point your hands upwards, fingers spread wide but relaxed with the thumbs almost touching. Again, give a little on impact to cushion it and prevent drops or rebounds, then pull the ball into your body for protection.