1. Work with your partner
This isn't singles--each partner must cover his portion of the court. Teamwork
is essential in doubles because trying to play the hole court by yourself will
leave too many easy shots open for your opponents. When possible, maintain a
lateral distance or about 12 feet from your partner. Also, you and your teammate
should coordinate your movements and be positive with each other--it'll go a
long way in determining the outcome of the match.
2. Follow the ball
Moving in the direction of the ball is the best way to take away your opponent's
easiest returns. For example, if you or your partner hits the ball left, to
your opponents deuce court, both of you should move left. Following the ball
in this case eliminates their down the alley winner and their easier middle
of the court return. The only play is opening short crosscourt shot, which is
much more difficult to hit.
3. Keep your eyes across the net.
Instead of turning to watch your partner hit a shot, always look at your
opponents. The movement of their feet and racquets will tell you who is going
to hit the return, where you should go, and how much time you have to get there.
Since you can't do anything to help your partner hit his shot, focus on gathering
valuable information from your opponents--they'll tell you everything you need
to know.
4. Charge the Net
Always get to the net as soon as possible. That's the easiest place to win
points without having a high skill level. At the net, you don't have to hit
with overwhelming power or pinpoint accuracy, and your position creates sharper
angles and leaves more court open for you to put the ball away. Make the most
of your position by adopting a "bring it on" attitude: expect and want every
shot to come right to you and you'll be surprised at how much you can accomplish.
5. Don't just stand there
Good doubles players realize that positioning and balance are crucial to
winning points. This is especially true when the ball is going to your partner.
Instead of taking a break while your partner prepares to hit, move to get in
the best position to attack a good return or defend against a poor one. But
make sure you are set up and in the ready position before your opponents hit
the ball. Use your "nonhitting" time wisely and you'll make life difficult for
your opponents.
6. Avoid the net person
The person you want to avoid hitting to is the one at the net. Even if he
has limited racquet skills, he is the most powerful player on the court because
he is so close to the net. But if your opponent backs up or stops at the service
line instead of advancing to the net, you're in luck. The service line is a
difficult place to play from and requires a high skill level, so that's the
ideal time to hit to him.
7. Lob when you're in trouble
Your opponent can put you out of position with a deep or wide shot. Your
response: throw up a lob. This will buy you and your partner some time to get
into a stronger positions. So when you're in trouble, remember these three simple
rules: lob, lob, lob.