If you’re just starting out in doubles pickleball, you’ve come to the right place. In this article, I’ll share ten essential strategies that will not only make you a better pickleball player but also help you become a smarter player overall. These strategies cover everything from positioning and shot selection to communication and partner synergy. By incorporating these tips into your game, you’ll be well on your way to success on the court.
Key Takeaways:
- Master the drop shot to gain an advantage in doubles pickleball.
- Keep your opponents at the baseline to maintain control of the rally.
- Aim for your opponents’ feet to make it difficult for them to return the ball effectively.
- Focus on hitting a deep serve to control the rally from the start.
- Move as a cohesive unit with your partner to prevent your opponents from easily putting balls away.
Follow the Return-of-Serve to the Non-Volley Line
Having a solid strategy in doubles pickleball is crucial for winning more matches. One important aspect of this strategy is following the return-of-serve to the non-volley line. By doing so, you position yourself strategically and increase your chances of winning the ensuing rally.
When you and your partner receive a serve, it’s essential to immediately move towards the non-volley line. This strategic positioning allows you to control the point and puts pressure on your opponents, making it harder for them to execute their shots with precision.
Here’s why following the return-of-serve to the non-volley line is beneficial:
- It reduces the time your opponents have to react and adjust their shots, giving you an advantage.
- Being at the non-volley line allows you to take control of the point, as shots from this position are more offensive and put your opponents on the defensive.
- You can easily cut off angles and limit the options available to your opponents, forcing them into making less accurate shots.
Remember to communicate with your partner during the return of service so that both of you follow this strategic move. This teamwork and coordination will help you maximize your effectiveness on the court.
“Following the return-of-serve to the non-volley line allows you to dictate the pace of the game and put yourself in a favorable position to win the point.” – Professional pickleball player, Sarah Johnson
By consistently following the return-of-serve to the non-volley line, you’ll be able to control the game and force your opponents to make more mistakes. This tactical move, combined with effective shot selection and positioning, can greatly increase your chances of winning doubles pickleball matches.
Drop shots are your friend
If you want to take your doubles pickleball strategy to the next level, mastering the drop shot is essential. This shot can be a game-changer, especially when you are away from the non-volley line and your opponent is already there. By utilizing the drop shot, you can effectively reach the non-volley line and turn the odds in your favor.
The drop shot is a soft and delicately executed shot that requires finesse and precision. It involves gently hitting the ball just over the net, causing it to drop close to the net and giving your opponents less time to react. It’s a strategic move that requires careful positioning and shot selection.
When you’re not at the non-volley line and your opponent is, you can use the drop shot to disrupt their positioning and force them to retreat towards the baseline. By doing so, you gain the advantage of moving closer to the non-volley line while your opponents are busy retrieving the ball. This puts you in a better position to control the rally and dictate the pace of the game.
The drop shot can also be an effective way to neutralize your opponent’s aggressive play and defensive positioning. By utilizing a well-executed drop shot, you can force them to backpedal and prevent them from aggressively attacking the ball. This gives you more time to strategize and respond effectively to their shots.
It’s important to note that the drop shot requires careful timing and accuracy. You need to be mindful of the distance between you and the net, as hitting the ball too hard or too close to the net can result in errors. Practice your drop shots to develop consistency and control, allowing you to execute this shot confidently during games.
The Benefits of the Drop Shot in Doubles Pickleball
- Disrupts your opponents’ positioning at the non-volley line
- Allows you to move closer to the non-volley line
- Forces opponents to retreat toward the baseline
- Neutralizes aggressive play from opponents
- Gives you more time to strategize and respond
Mastering the drop shot can give you an edge in doubles pickleball, allowing you to keep the odds in your favor and gain control of the game. Incorporate this strategic shot into your gameplay and watch as it becomes a valuable weapon in your doubles pickleball arsenal.
| Advantages of the Drop Shot | Disadvantages of the Drop Shot |
|---|---|
| Can catch opponents off guard | Requires precise timing and control |
| Forces opponents into defensive positions | Can be easily counteracted by skilled opponents |
| Allows you to gain positional advantage | Requires practice to consistently execute effectively |
Keep your opponents at the baseline
When playing doubles pickleball, one of the key strategies to gain an advantage over your opponents is to keep them pinned back at the baseline. By doing so, you prevent them from easily reaching the non-volley line after hitting a shorter shot, giving you the upper hand in the rally.
To execute this strategy effectively, both you and your partner should position yourselves at the non-volley line. This positioning puts you in a strong offensive position and forces your opponents to play defensively from the baseline.
By keeping your opponents at the baseline, you limit their shot options and put pressure on their ability to execute effective shots. It becomes more challenging for them to hit aggressive shots that can put you and your partner on the defensive.
Furthermore, by positioning yourselves at the non-volley line, you can cut off angles and limit the amount of court your opponents have to work with. This makes it harder for them to find open spaces and forces them to hit low-percentage shots.
Overall, by keeping your opponents at the baseline, you control the pace and flow of the game, making it easier for you and your partner to dictate the direction of the rally and ultimately increase your chances of winning points.
Aim for their feet!
When it comes to doubles pickleball strategy, shot placement, and opponent positioning play a crucial role in gaining an advantage on the court. One effective tactic to disrupt your opponents’ game is to aim for their feet. By targeting their feet with your shots, you can make it difficult for them to return the ball effectively and force errors.
Whether your opponents are at the baseline or in the transition area between the baseline and the non-volley line, aiming for their feet puts them in a challenging position. It forces them to quickly adjust their footwork and limits their options for a clean return. This strategic shot placement can give you the upper hand in the rally and create opportunities to seize control of the point.
When aiming for their feet, it’s essential to consider the spacing between you and your opponents. If they are at the baseline, hitting low shots that bounce close to their feet makes it harder for them to generate power and maintain proper balance. On the other hand, if they are in the transition area, aiming for their feet can disrupt their movement and prevent them from comfortably reaching the non-volley line.
To illustrate the impact of this strategy, consider the following table showcasing the effectiveness of targeting opponents’ feet:
| Shot Placement | Opponent Positioning | Result |
|---|---|---|
| Aim for feet | Baseline | Forces opponents to make low, difficult returns |
| Aim for feet | Transition area | Disrupts opponents’ movement, limiting their ability to reach the non-volley line |
This table clearly demonstrates the effectiveness of targeting opponents’ feet as a doubles pickleball strategy. By implementing this tactic, you can put your opponents under pressure, create opportunities for winning shots, and ultimately increase your chances of success on the court.
Add a little depth to your serve
When it comes to serving in doubles pickleball, one strategic move that can give you an edge is hitting a deep serve. By aiming for the back of the court, you make it more difficult for your opponents to reach the non-volley line after returning your serve.
Why is a deep serve so effective? When your opponents have to start the rally from farther away, it gives you more time and control over the game. It also puts pressure on them to execute a strong return, increasing the chances of a weak shot or even an error.
By serving deep, you set the tone for the rally and dictate the pace of play. You can force your opponents into defensive positions, allowing you to take control of the net and dominate the point.
Mastering the deep serve requires practice and precision. Aim for the back line, using a combination of power and accuracy. Experiment with different techniques, such as top spin or slice, to add variation to your serves and keep your opponents guessing.
Remember, a deep serve is not just about power but also about placement. By strategically placing your serves deep in the court, you can disrupt your opponents’ rhythm and gain the upper hand in the match.
| Benefits of a Deep Serve in Doubles Pickleball |
|---|
| 1. Makes it harder for opponents to reach the non-volley line |
| 2. Gives you more time and control over the rally |
| 3. Forces opponents into defensive positions |
| 4. Increases the chances of a weak return or error |
| 5. Sets the tone for the rally and dictates the pace of play |
| 6. Allows you to take control of the net and dominate the point |
Step away from the baseline when returning
When it comes to returning serves, it’s crucial to step away from the baseline instead of standing too close. By stepping back 2-3 feet, you give yourself more space and time to react and effectively return the ball, especially when the serve is deep. This strategic adjustment in baseline positioning can make a significant difference in your doubles pickleball game.
Always Return Deep
One crucial strategy in doubles pickleball is to always aim for a deep return of service. By hitting the ball deep into your opponent’s court, you and your partner will have enough time to move forward towards the non-volley line. This strategic positioning can make the third shot longer and harder for the serving team to execute, increasing your chances of winning the rally.
Communication when Returning Middle Shots is Key
Clear communication plays a vital role in successfully returning middle shots in doubles pickleball. To avoid confusion and make quick decisions during the game, the team needs to communicate effectively. By deciding in advance who will take the middle shots, the players can establish a clear plan and work together seamlessly on the court.
“Effective communication ensures coordination and enhances our chances of success when dealing with middle shots in doubles pickleball.”
When a middle shot is hit, the designated player should communicate their intention clearly and assertively to their partner. This communication allows the partner to adjust their positioning accordingly, providing optimal coverage of the court and improving their chances of returning the shot successfully.
Communicating preferences, strengths, and strategies during the game is crucial for creating a synchronized and cohesive team dynamic, allowing players to take advantage of every opportunity that arises.
When returning middle shots, effective communication ensures that both players are in the best position to cover the court. It minimizes the risk of both players attempting to hit the same shot, reducing confusion and maximizing the team’s potential to disrupt the opponents’ strategy.
Key Takeaways:
- Clear communication is essential for returning middle shots in doubles pickleball.
- Establish a plan and decide who will take the middle shots in advance.
- Designated players should communicate their intentions clearly to their partner.
- Effective communication reduces confusion and improves positioning on the court.
Move as a Cohesive Unit
In doubles pickleball, teamwork and coordination are key to winning matches. It’s not just about individual skill, but also about how well you move and play together as a pair. You can outmaneuver your opponents and maintain control of the game by acting as a cohesive unit.
One important aspect of moving as a team is walking back and forth together. By staying in sync with your partner, you can quickly adjust your position on the court and respond effectively to different shots. Whether moving forward or backward, strive to move as one, keeping your movements fluid and coordinated.
Additionally, moving side to side together is crucial in doubles pickleball. This allows you to cover more ground and protect against shots that would otherwise find open spaces. By communicating and coordinating your movements laterally, you can ensure that neither you nor your partner are caught out of position.
By moving as a cohesive unit, you make it difficult for your opponents to exploit gaps in your defense and put balls away easily. As a result, you can maintain control of the game and dictate the tempo of the rally. Teamwork and movement go hand in hand in doubles pickleball, and mastering this aspect of the game will greatly enhance your chances of success.
| Benefits of Moving as a Cohesive Unit |
|---|
| 1. Improved court coverage |
| 2. Reduces gaps in defense |
| 3. Enhanced communication |
| 4. Maintains control of the game |
| 5. Frustrates opponents’ shot placement |
Patience is a virtue
When playing doubles pickleball, it’s important to remember that patience is a key element of your strategy. Instead of rushing and making unforced errors, take the time to assess the situation and select your shots wisely. By practicing patience, you can avoid unnecessary risks and increase your chances of success on the court.
Patience in doubles pickleball involves making conservative shot selections when necessary. Instead of going for the flashy winners every time, opt for shots that have a higher probability of success. This could mean hitting the ball deep into the opponent’s court, maintaining a steady rally, or forcing your opponent to make a mistake.
By exercising patience, you can also avoid common pitfalls such as overhitting or going for low-percentage shots. When faced with a difficult shot, take a step back and assess the situation. Consider the position of your opponents, the court conditions, and your own abilities. By choosing a more conservative and controlled shot, you minimize the chances of making an unforced error and give yourself a better chance of winning the point.
Moreover, patience in doubles pickleball extends beyond shot selection. It also involves patience in waiting for the right opportunity to attack. Instead of rushing to finish the point, focus on setting up the point and waiting for the perfect moment to strike. This could mean patiently working your opponents around the court, setting up a winning shot, or waiting for an opening to exploit their weaknesses.
In conclusion, practicing patience in doubles pickleball is crucial for success. By exercising patience in shot selection and waiting for the right opportunities, you can improve your overall game and increase your chances of winning. So, take a deep breath, stay calm, and let patience be your guiding virtue on the pickleball court.
Conclusion
By implementing these doubles pickleball strategies, you can enhance your game and improve your chances of winning. Focus on positioning, shot selection, communication, and teamwork to excel in doubles pickleball and achieve success on the court.
Positioning is crucial in doubles pickleball. By following the return-of-serve to the non-volley line, you gain a strategic advantage over your opponents. Mastering the drop shot allows you to reach the non-volley line and flip the odds in your favor. Keeping your opponents at the baseline prevents them from easily reaching the non-volley line, giving you the upper hand in the rally.
Shot placement plays a significant role in winning doubles pickleball matches. Aiming for your opponents’ feet makes it difficult for them to return the ball effectively. Additionally, hitting deep serves and stepping away from the baseline when returning adds depth to your shots and gives you more space and time to execute your returns. Effective communication and cohesive movement with your partner are essential for successful teamwork.
Remember, patience is a virtue in doubles pickleball. Practicing patience and selecting your shots wisely will help you avoid unforced errors and maximize your chances of winning. By applying these winning tips and embodying effective teamwork, you can elevate your doubles pickleball game and achieve victory on the court.
FAQ
What is the importance of following the return-of-serve to the non-volley line?
Following the return-of-serve to the non-volley line is crucial in doubles pickleball as it allows you to position yourself strategically and gain an advantage over your opponents.
How can drop shots improve my game in doubles pickleball?
Mastering the drop shot can greatly enhance your chances of winning in doubles pickleball. Using this shot when you are not at the non-volley line and your opponent is can help you reach the non-volley line and flip the odds in your favor.
Why should I keep my opponents at the baseline in doubles pickleball?
Keeping your opponents pinned back at the baseline when you and your partner are on the non-volley line is advantageous. This prevents them from easily reaching the non-volley line after hitting a shorter shot and gives you the upper hand in the rally.
How can targeting my opponents’ feet benefit me in doubles pickleball?
Targeting your opponents’ feet can make it difficult for them to return the ball effectively. By aiming your shots at their feet, whether they are at the baseline or in the transition area between the baseline and the non-volley line, you can gain an advantage in doubles pickleball.
Why is hitting a deep serve important in doubles pickleball?
When serving in doubles pickleball, hitting a deep serve is crucial. This prevents your opponents from easily reaching the non-volley line after the return of serve and allows you to control the rally from the start.
How does stepping back from the baseline when returning serve benefit me?
Instead of standing at the baseline or even within a foot of the baseline when returning serves, stepping back 2-3 feet gives you more space and time to step in and return the ball effectively, especially when the serve is deep.
Why should I focus on a deep return of service in doubles pickleball?
Opting for a deep return of service whenever possible in doubles pickleball gives you and your partner enough time to move to the non-volley line. This makes the third shot longer and harder for the serving team to execute.
How important is communication when returning middle shots in doubles pickleball?
Clear communication is essential when returning middle shots in doubles pickleball. It is vital to decide as a team who will take the middle shots and communicate effectively to avoid confusion and make quick decisions during the game.
Why is it important to move together as a pair in doubles pickleball?
In doubles pickleball, it is important to move together as a pair and act as a cohesive unit. Walking back and forth together, moving side to side together, prevents your opponents from easily putting balls away and helps maintain control of the game.
How does patience contribute to success in doubles pickleball?
Practice patience in doubles pickleball and focus on selecting your shots wisely. Avoid rushing and making unforced errors by choosing conservative shots when necessary and avoiding unnecessary risks. Patience will contribute to your overall success in the game.
What can I do to enhance my game in doubles pickleball?
By implementing these doubles pickleball strategies, you can enhance your game and improve your chances of winning. Focus on positioning, shot selection, communication, and teamwork to excel in doubles pickleball and achieve success on the court.
