Here at CBRC, we’re proud of all we are and all we do. As you’ve seen written in these blogs before, we offer something for everyone.
We have weights and cardio; step classes, spin and yoga; swimming and basketball. But one thing we’re particularly proud of is our racquet sports. After all it’s in our name.
So today we’re starting a monthly tennis series. We’re going to be looking at all different aspects of the game. From basic strategies and fundamental techniques, to the best equipment to buy and events to participate in.
Anything is possible. And we’re excited for it.
The first several posts, starting today, will be aimed at helping you in your doubles strategy.
Most CBRC tennis players play doubles. It’s a great way to build your skill set and have fun in a team environment, while adding another layer of strategy that you just don’t get playing by yourself.
So, we’re going to be discussing some basic strategies to help you in your doubles game.
Why do we want to do this? Simply put, it’s to help you win.
This may come as a surprise to many, but it’s fun to win. And through practice and development, you improve your game and give yourself a chance to win.
How do you win in doubles? Of course, you need the proper skills and abilities. But you also need some set plays, and a general strategy. Remember, you’re playing with a partner. That means you both need to be on the same page. And you need to be hitting the ball with a purpose. You shouldn’t just attack the ball and hope for the best.
Hope is not a strategy.
Now, we should be clear: there are no rules in tennis strategy. There are concepts and ideas you need to know and apply appropriately to give yourself the best chance of winning the point. So, we’re going to be talking a lot about percentages. You won’t win every point, and not every ball you hit will go exactly where you want it to. But in a given situation, what is the higher percentage play to make?
Perhaps the most important lesson to learn is that to win at doubles, you must remember you’re playing doubles. Use your partner, let them play. Let them make a mistake.
That doesn’t mean, of course, that you won’t help them when they need it, or that you won’t be aggressive. But if I’m not controlling the point, keeping the ball in, or playing with my partner, I’m not helping the team. I’m hurting it.
Go into the game with a game plan and stick to it. You do your part, and trust that your partner will do theirs. It may be difficult at first, but once you’ve played together for a while, you will reach a level of understanding and trust from which you both can grow as individual tennis players, and as a great team.
Once that happens, you’ll see you start winning a lot more.
And winning is fun.
We wish you good health,
Columbia Basin Racquet Club