Who Covers the Middle?
-
The person closest to the net has priority on the ball down the middle. The reason is that this player can angle the ball away easier. Also, when the closest player to the net hits the ball, it gives your opponents less time to react. When your partner is serving or returning, you, as the front player, are responsible for balls down the middle. If the ball goes back to the server, you should drop back a couple of steps towards the middle of the court. This way, if your partner hits to the opposing net player, you will be in position to defend against the down the middle volley.
-
When you and your partner are at the net, both go for the ball down the middle. You do not have time to call the middle ball at the net. By the time you say “yours” or “mine,” the ball is usually flying past you. So, both players should be ready to hit the middle shot. When you both go for the ball, the first player to hit the ball is going to be in the best position to put the ball away.
-
When you and your partner are an equal distance from the net and the ball, the player on your team who has the momentum should hit the middle volley. If you hit the previous shot, you are on the move and should get to the middle ball before your partner. Also, if you hit the previous shot, you can quickly anticipate where to be for the opponent’s next shot. Conversely, the non-hitting partner has to wait and see where you hit before trying to anticipate the next shot. Both players should still go for the ball down the middle (rule #2 above), however, the player who has the momentum should get to the ball first.
-
Go with your strongest shot on slow balls down the middle when you have time to communicate. This is the exception to the rules above. As an example, your opponent hits a high, floating lob down the middle. In this case, the player who can hit a strong overhead should take priority over a player who may be hitting a weaker high backhand volley. Another example is when you and your partner are at the baseline together. Now, when the soft, floating ball comes down the middle, the player with the strongest drive should hit the ball. In most instances, the player who can hit the forehand drive is the best choice. But that is not always the case so know your partner. Lastly, communication with your partner is a must when you have the time.
© Greg Fowler