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I have seen many doubles matches played by
pros, novices, and all levels in between. One major difference comes to
mind: top players spend as little time in the one up, one back formation as
possible. Why? Because this formation is viable only if your opponents
cooperate.
If they choose to come to net together, the
one up, one back team is in major trouble! With one player up at net, and
one at the baseline, there are several scenarios possible, none of them
good.
If the baseline player tries to pass the two
net players, there is a big hole between him and his partner for the net
players to aim at; his partner is also very exposed at the net, and becomes
a target for a hard volley or overhead smash. The net person in the one up,
one back formation is pretty much a non-factor, except as a target for his
opponents!
If your team likes to play defense, great!
Play both players back on the baseline. If one player is drawn to the net,
his partner should come with him.
When your team is serving, try to serve and
volley! If that is too uncomfortable, serve and take the first opportunity
to approach the net. Try to beat your opponent to the net, it gives your
team the advantage. When returning, hit your return, and if at all possible,
follow it to the net; if you beat the server to the net, your team has the
advantage. Before the match, discuss these tactics with your partner so you
are on the same page. Don't be discouraged with failure; you are learning to
play better doubles!
What is the downside? Only one! You MUST
practice hitting overheads!!! The only viable answer to a team owning the
net is to lob! If you can't deal with the lob, you won't be very successful
at the net. Your overhead will not improve by ignoring it, so practice
hitting overheads often. Practice getting back for overheads, practice
hitting them, practice taking the net at all costs, and see your doubles
game explode!
Suggestions for parents who have a
child who would like to be on a high school tennis team.
John Morris, a current high school tennis
coach and USPTR tennis pro, a father of two high school tennis players, and
former college tennis coach, has a few suggestions to help your child
succeed in trying out for the high school team.
1. Physical conditioning is a necessity -
sprints, sliding, crossovers, jumping rope, etc. Work on developing fast
feet. Go to a local tennis court and practice the various movements needed
to be competitive. This will give the player "court sense".
2. Coaches generally do not have the time
needed to give lessons during practice because of the time limit and number
of players who try out. It is highly recommended that the player have some
private or group lessons with a local certified teaching professional, and
participate in the summer Jefferson Junior Tennis League.
3. Read and understand the rules of the game
and scoring. This will allow the coach to spend the needed time working on
strategy and tactics, challenges and competitive drills.
4. Above all, have your parents or friends
toss balls or hit tennis balls to you to improve your eye-hand coordination.
5. Remember, whether your long range goal is
to play collegiate tennis or meet new friends, give it your best effort.
Allow enough time in your schedule to succeed.
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