Doubles Poaching:
The aggressive net play that gives you the edge

Doubles is a team game where two players work together to create opportunities to win points with volleys and overheads. In previous articles I have outlined the basic doubles strategy as trying to get both players to the net within two shots to be in a position to spike the ball between their opponents (to the center "T"). The team that can execute this simple plan with minimal unforced errors (meaning do not over hit) has a significant edge over their opponents.

Poaching, where the volleyer crosses in front of his partner (the server) before he gets to the net, is the first spiking play available to the serving team. If it is done properly, it makes it much easier to hold serve and it is a constant distraction and irritation to the receivers. Unfortunately, in intermediate doubles, the volleyer is overly concerned with covering the alley and rarely helps out his partner with a well-timed move.

The following basic ideas will help your team set up this aggressive play:

1. Realize that in doubles the vast majority of balls cross the center of the net. Balls are most always hit on the diagonal, so be less concerned about the occasional alley ball.
2. A deep first serve into the body or to the center “T” will create a weaker return that will usually float up in the middle. It is essential that the server get a high number of deep first serves in play (three-quarter speed is best). Second serves are usually too shallow to allow for poaching and actually give the receiving team the advantage.
3. The volleyer must time his move to the bounce of the ball so he can’t be seen. As the ball bounces (only on body and center serves, not wide serves) quickly skip toward the center. When the receiver hits, immediately turn your shoulders in the direction of the ball keeping your racquet head up. If the ball is high and within reach, go for it. If it is low and wide, let your partner take it. Your initial move doesn’t commit you and should not distract him.
4. Try to block the ball to the center “T”. Use a very short swing and keep your hand on target. Your opponent will have no time to react so hitting hard isn’t necessary.

A high first-serve percentage and effective discretionary poaching gives the serving team a big advantage. The volleyer should be able to pick off at least one point a game. This edge will give your team a big confidence boost and makes it easier to focus on breaking your opponents serve.