September 1999
[How to Return The Big Serve] | [Communicating In Doubles]
Are you intimidated by the big 140-mph serve? Do you close your eyes, turn your head and hope you donıt get hurt? You shouldn't. Here are five points that will help you develop a neutralizing service return.
If your playing an opponent who stays back all you need to do is to keep the ball deep in the court. This keeps your opponent back behind the baseline where he is not a threat to you. Now youıre ready for Sampraıs serve thatıs Steve Sampras, of course.
One of the all-time great acts in sports is played out by doubles teams everyday, everywhere. Itıs the old routine of "I got it! I got it! You take it!" The act is funny to everyone except the two partners. Successful doubles teamwork is based on communication. Before, during, and after a point, better doubles teams talk things over.
Before the point starts, discuss tactics with your partner. If you are the receiverıs partner, find out what he will do after returning serve. (You donıt want to be left stranded at the net.) If he plans on staying back, you should join him before the serve is put into play. When your partner is serving, and you believe you can poach the opponentıs service return, tell him before he serves; better yet, set up a poaching signal system.
During the point, there are occasions when it is helpful to talk to your partner. Whenever confronting a lob down the center of the court, it is best verbally decide who will play it. Many teams will let the player with his forehand down the middle take the one in question; others let the stronger overhead play the ball. This decision should be answered with an immediate, authoritative verbal command: "MINE!" This calls the other player off the ball.
Being lobbed at the net also poses an occasional problem. Often it is easier for the lobeeıs partner to run behind him and chase down the ball. This is sensible because he has a better angle of pursuit. As he moves to the ball he tells his partner to "cross" and they change sides. At the beginning and intermediate levels of play, both players should retreat together, returning a lob with another lob. Once at the baseline the communicating doubles team patiently waits until they are presented with an opportunity to rush the net together. The player taking the ball should inform his partner that they are approaching: "Letıs go!"
On the change-over (changing sides) it is time to talk about future strategy analyze what is working and what needs to be changed. Also it is the opportune time for partners to encourage each other and get ready for the next big game.
Make sure that you pick a partner that suits your personality. You will be under many pressure packed situations during a match so make sure you play with someone you can lean on, and compliments you. If you can talk to them under pressure and formulate game plans while you play and keep a positive attitude then try to keep that partner for along time. Keep talking!!