How to teach doubles play

Hi.

I'm a teacher of physical education from Poland. I need to prepare two girls for double match in tournament. Could you give me some teaching advice - exercises or tips: basic position, simple tactics etc.

best regards

Lukas

Hi Lukas,

Some key points with doubles are:

Make sure they are learning to move out of the way after they hit the ball to allow their partner space to hit the next ball.

Think about where they are hitting the ball and to who. In any single game they are hitting to one person.  So each player needs to work out what that player doesn't like.

Also, think about where they are hitting the ball.  Often hitting the ball down the line is best.  This is because, when you hit the ball down the line, the opponent will hit the ball cross court which is where your partner will be standing.

Serve mainly short serves as the opponent only have half the table to cover.

I hope these tips help.  I wish them good luck in the tournament.

If you type in 'Doubles Tactics' at the top of the Ask the Coach page in the Search box you will also see a couple of previous responses to doubles questions.