Each Player’s Role in Doubles

 

 

Print this sheet and have a friend keep statistics for four games on the grid below.  Compare the results with the following goals:

 

The Server:

The server’s goal is to execute 75% of first serves in play. Use a check mark ü in the serve column if the first serve goes in, or an “X” if the first serve is missed.

 

When you achieve the 75% serve goal you give your partner opportunities to poach. On the other hand, if your first serve percentage drops to 50%, the team will then be on the defensive 50% of the time (since most club level players have relatively weak second serves.) The challenge now becomes to win the game “attacking” only half the time. Your team will have to play perfect tennis to now win the game!

 

 

Server’s Net Player:

The goal of the server’s net player is to get involved on the opponent’s return at least 50% of the time. However, if the server is not making the first serve goal of 75%, the goal of the server’s net player will be very tough to achieve.

 

Scenarios that help the server’s net player “getting involved” positive score include:

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1.Alley Shots: If the server’s net player is moving around at the net, the returner will be forced to go down the alley. Consider the returner’s alley attempt the ultimate compliment! And thank the opponent after an alley return! Receive a ü(check) in the “involved” column.

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2. Missed Wide Crosscourt Returns: Receive a ü in the “involved” column if the opponent misses wide on the return. The logic here is that there is no reason the returner would miss wide unless you are moving around and getting involved!

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3. Receive a ü in the “involved” column anytime you as the server’s net player hits the opponent’s return of serve, regardless of the outcome. 

 

The Returners:

The goal on the return of serve is to execute 100% of returns in play! Receive a ü when the return gets in play.

The most common reply to the 100% returns in play goal is; “Wow, he’s asking for perfection! There’s no way!”

Let me explain. If both returners are more accepting of errors and don’t mind missing one return a game, the team is down 0-30. Against a good team, the game is almost over. So, demand perfection on the return!

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