Who Should Take the Ball Down the Middle? - I am often asked who should take the ball down the middle in doubles. I receive comments like the forehand player, the better player, the crosscourt players, etc. These all sound good until you ask, what if that “chosen” player slips, was not prepared, just can’t reach it or a number of other problems? The solution, it is the responsibility of both of the players. The player that is closest to the net has the first shot at the ball and the other player should always back up their partner. Sometimes the first player just misses the ball and so the backup player may be the only option for a successful return. So next time you play doubles remember to communicate with your partner regularly and when a shot is hit between your team in the middle, plan on going for it either as the closest player or the backup player. Good luck in defending the middle in the future. You should have greater success in covering the middle of the court, which most players are taught to hit to for a successfully placed shot.
If you need additional help in understanding this tip, give us a call at the Lake Club Tennis Center and we can schedule for a tune up lesson or hitting session.
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