Game Strategies - Double Cover

Aim: To improve footwork, team positioning and communication.

How: Players 1 and 2 start in the standard doubles formation.

Player 3 is situated on the opposite service line and feeds the ball short to player 1. This brings player 1 forward and must then play a cross court approach shot.

After player 1 plays this shot both player's move in towards the net. Player 3 sees the opportunity and hits a lob over player 2's head. Player 1 must run round behind player 2, retrieve the ball and return it with a cross court lob. Whilst player 1 retrieves player 2 must make a move across to cover the space left by player 1.

Player 1 moves up to the net after hitting the lob into the position left by player 2. Player 3 then hits a high, slow ball down the middle of the court which player 2 moves towards and hits a swinging volley to win the point.

Players can swap roles.

Progressions:

A longer or shorter sequence of shots can be used
Another player can be added to help player 3 return the ball and make it harder for player's 1 and 2 to win the point.

Coaching Points:

Make sure the footwork is effective to reach each shot
Check for correct technique, grips etc. even when the players are under pressure.
Communication is essential.

Similar Drills: