Doubles Coordination: Poaching, Switching, and Partner Sync

Doubles success requires two players moving as one unit. The net player (not hitting) is responsible for court control. When the baseline player hits, the net player should position aggressively—2-3 feet from the net, hands up, ready to poach. Poaching: When the opponent is about to hit, anticipate the direction and intercept. Poach on weak returns or slow balls. Don't poach on fast drives—let your partner handle them. Communication: Make eye contact with your partner. A nod or hand signal indicates agreement. Switching: When the ball moves wide, players switch positions. The player closer to the ball becomes the baseline player; the other moves to net. This keeps both players active. Example: Ball is wide on the right side. The right player moves to the line; the left player moves toward net, ready for a volley. Mixed doubles coordination: Women are often placed at net in mixed—support them with aggressive poaching and good passing. Cover the court as a team. If your partner is covering the line, you cover the middle.