P3 Doubles Poaching: Anticipation and Court Coverage

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).