The Tennis Partner: Marin Tennis
PARTNER OF THE SERVICE RETURNER
There are two basic positions for the partner of the player returning serve. Which one you chose depends on your personal safety. The two positions are just inside the service line and just inside the baseline. The first is generally referred to as playing “up”, while the second is playing “back”. Both are usually midway between the sideline (opposite from where the serve must go) and the middle line of the court.
If the server is coming to net and your partner cannot keep his return low, you should be playing “back”. Likewise if the server’s partner is successfully poaching on a regular basis. Clearly, if your opponents are nailing volleys at or past you, play back. If your partner is having no problem in returning crosscourt and low and is keeping the netman from poaching (with lobs and passing shots), you should play up.
When you play up, you should “cross” when your partner hits a return that a net rusher must play on the bounce. When you cross, move toward the center net strap so you can hit a winning volley. If the server stays back and your partner hits his return to the server, move toward the server to a point midway between the net and the service line.
Always remember that when you play up, your goal is to dominate the net and confuse your opponents. When you play back, your goal is to move to the up position as soon as you can. If your partner lobs the return and your opponents are not setting up to hit an overhead, move forward.
If you are playing up, you should call the service line since you have the best view of that line. The receiver should call the center and side lines.
In conclusion, always cheer up your partner and never criticize him. If he wants you to stand in a strange position, try it. The player returning the serve should be in charge.
Here is a great video explaining what your tennis partner should do depending on how well your partner hits his serve.
If you are interested in playing some doubles check out tennis in marin. There is a great forum where you can arrange matches or just find some to play with. I hope you enjoyed this post.
Marin Tennis: Perfect Forehand Movement
To achieve the best tennis shot you must learn the basics of motion. From shoulder movement, to moving the wait, each simple step makes the perfect shot. Tennis In Marin helps teach these movements in a concise and friendly manner which is also an effective way to achieve perfect movement. If you are looking for a more spin tennis forehand, I would recommend changing your grip to a more eastern grip as well as flicking your wrist at the end of your stroke. If you are looking for a flatter shot, use a more western grip and keep your wrist planted against the racket. Do not flick the wrist.
If you like any of these tips and would like to learn more, please visit our marin tennis website.