Net Player in Doubles
Also known as: net player, doubles net player, playing the net in doubles, net position in doubles, server's partner, returner's partner, receiver's partner
When your partner serves, start about halfway between the net and the service line, near the middle of your service box. Shift with the ball, cover your alley when it comes down your side and poach weak crosscourt balls you can reach. When your partner returns, start near the service line and move forward once the return gets past the opposing net player.
The net player's job is to pressure the opponents and finish points. With your partner serving, many coaches start you about halfway between the net and the service line, near the middle of the box. Watch the returner, not your partner. Move forward and toward the ball as it crosses the net. Cover your alley against a ball hit down the line. Cut off weak crosscourt balls by poaching.
When your partner is returning, the usual start is near the service line on your side. The Code says the receiver's partner should call the service line. After the return, watch the opposing net player. If the return gets past them, move forward to the net. If they intercept it, hold your ground and defend.
Move as a team. Both partners shift toward the side the ball goes to. That keeps the gap between you closed. Split step as each opponent hits. Agree on signals and on who takes the middle ball before the match. Do not stand still. A frozen net player is easy to pass and gives the opponents a free target.
Tips by skill level
Start near the middle of your service box, about halfway to the net. Each time an opponent hits, split step and take a step toward where the ball is going.
Use fakes. A small move toward the middle before the returner hits can draw a return into your alley or force an error. Mix real poaches with fakes so the returner cannot read you.
Example
Her partner serves wide to the deuce court. The net player shifts a step toward the alley to cover the line. When the return floats crosscourt, she moves across and volleys it away for a winner.
Why it matters
An active net player can end points quickly and puts pressure on every return. A passive one gives the opponents an easy target.
Common mistakes
- Watching your partner hit instead of watching the opponents
- Crowding the net so closely that every lob beats you
- Leaving the alley open after your partner serves wide
- Standing still for the whole point
Frequently asked questions
What should I do at the net in doubles?
Watch the opponents, not your partner. Move with the ball, cover your alley when it comes down your side, and poach weak balls you can reach. Split step each time an opponent hits.
Where should I stand at the net when my partner is serving?
Many coaches start the net player about halfway between the net and the service line, near the middle of the service box. Move closer or farther back to suit the returner and your volleys.
Where should I stand when my partner is returning serve?
Start near the service line on your side and call the service line. Then watch the opposing net player, and move forward if the return gets past them.
Sources
Related terms
- Poaching (Doubles)Poaching is when the net player in doubles crosses over to intercept a ball meant for their partner. It cuts off the angle and finishes the point at net.
- Doubles PositioningDoubles positioning is how two partners split and cover the court. Usually one is at net and one at the baseline, shifting together as the point develops.
- I-Formation (Doubles)The I-formation has the server's partner crouch on the center service line before the serve. It hides which side they'll cover and sets up a planned poach.
- Australian Formation (Doubles)In the Australian formation, the server and net partner start on the same side. It takes away the easy crosscourt return and forces a down-the-line reply.
- Volley TechniqueVolley technique is the mechanics of striking the ball before it bounces. It uses a short, firm punch action rather than a full groundstroke swing.
- Split StepA split step is a small hop timed to the moment your opponent strikes the ball. It primes your legs to push off explosively in any direction.
Related guides & benchmarks
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