P3 Doubles Poaching: Anticipation and Court Coverage
Poaching wins doubles points. This guide covers anticipation, partner communication, and aggressive net play.
The net player's primary job is poaching—intercepting opponent's shots before they reach the baseline player. Position: Stand slightly inside the service line, hands up, ready to move. Anticipation: Watch opponent's body and racket. When they're about to hit crosscourt, move toward the middle. When they're hitting down the line, hold the sideline. Anticipation is 70% of poaching success. Timing: Poach when opponent is likely to hit crosscourt (most common shot). Poach on weak returns or slow balls. Don't poach on hard-hit balls—let your partner handle them. Movement: Once you've anticipated the direction, move explosively toward the ball. Take a small adjustment step, then intercept with a volley. Communication: Make eye contact with your partner. Give a nod or signal before poaching. If your partner shakes their head, stay back. Reading the point: Poach more aggressively when serving—your partner dictates the point. Poach more conservatively when receiving—you're more defensive. Practice poaching in specific scenarios (weak returns, short balls).
Progression steps
- 1Practice poaching alone: Coach hits, you intercept from net
- 2Add communication: Partner signals, you poach or hold position
- 3Play rallies focusing on poaching timing and movement
- 4Match play: Use poaching to control and win points
Drill suggestions
- • Poach ladder: Coach hits 10 crosscourt—poach 10 in a row
- • Decision drill: Coach hits varied shots—poach on weak returns only
FAQs
When should I poach vs. stay back?
Poach on weak returns and slow balls. Stay back on hard-hit balls. Anticipate opponent's shot difficulty.
What if my poach is wrong and I leave the sideline open?
Partner covers the sideline. Trust your partner to be ready. Communication prevents this—signal before poaching.
Accelerate your progression with SmashIQ
Join the waitlist →