December '09

Doubles Tactics

Basic Principles.
1. Win your own serve as a pair in doubles.
2. Service return its vital you make them play the third ball.
3. Most of the time play the ball back accross court not to the volleyer at the net, too many people do that
and then they say good shot when the volleyer puts the ball away.
4. Onother shot you can play against the volleyer is the lob which needs practice, get enough height on the
ball dont give them any freebies.
5. Most important is to play more consistently, keep your unforced errors to a minimum and play the percentages. Best of luck. Ivor Baldwin.

March '10
1. Remember do some stretching before you hit a ball, less risk on injury and warms up the muscles quicker.
2. Topspin Forehand drive.
The action of the racket as it swings through is up and over the ball, gives you more control, keeps more balls into court, topspin drives are more difficult to volley, so close the racket face more when driving.

Singles Tactics
1. Put and keep the ball in play as effectively as possible.
2. Recover and keep your position relative to court, ball and opponent.
3.Ensure that the length of your shot is appropriate to the tactical situation.

Pause for thought - I think members should practice more to improve their game, and come to some of the Rusty Racket sessions which would help them. If you need any help or guidance contact me on 01952253080.

Doubles is a game of precision, consistency, forward and backward movement, and aggressive net play.
1. Put and keep the ball in play as severely as possible, mainly accross court.
2. Command the net as a pair in order to make winning placements.
3. Get and keep together as a pair.
4. Try and limit the distance you are separated.
5. Play on the weaker opponent.
6. Exploit the advantage of service, followed by improving your own service return.

It is important to keep your fitness level up during the winter months, as this will improve your game.
There are certain drills that members can do to improve their fitness and their hitting, contact me if your are interested.