Tips
Feb 11, 2025
The electric atmosphere of pickleball doubles is taking the sporting world by storm! Whether you're a seasoned player or just starting your pickleball journey, these seven dynamic strategies will transform your doubles game and help you dominate the court. Get ready to elevate your play with these proven tactics that blend finesse, strategy, and teamwork!
The Power of Position: The Stacking Strategy
Picture this: you and your partner moving across the court like a well-oiled machine! Stacking is a powerful technique that allows teams to maintain their strongest positions throughout the game. Instead of staying on your traditional sides, coordinate with your partner to keep your forehands in the middle, maximizing your offensive opportunities.
The Art of the Soft Game: Cross-Court Dinks
The mastery of dinks often separates recreational players from competitive ones. Perfect your cross-court dink by keeping your paddle face open and using gentle touch. The key is to make your dinks land in the kitchen with just enough arc to clear the net, but not so much that your opponents can attack. Remember: patience wins the point!
(Photo Source: https://www.selkirk.com/blogs/pickleball-education/6-pickleball-secrets-i-learned-from-pro-pickleball-players)
Communication is King
The court may be small, but communication makes it feel even smaller! Develop clear, quick signals with your partner:
"Switch!" for changing positions
"Mine!" for taking control of a shot
"Stay!" for holding position during opponent attacks
Pro Tip: Practice these calls during warm-ups to make them second nature during match play.
The Deep Serve Strategy
Here's a game-changer: serving deep isn't just about power – it's about placement! Aim your serves to land within the last 2-3 feet of the court, preferably targeting your opponent's backhand. This defensive setup gives you and your partner precious extra seconds to establish your net position.
(Photo Source: https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/pickleball-powerful-metaphor-leadership-development-team-de-groot)
The Third Shot Drop Revolution
Think of the third shot drop as your golden ticket to the net! Instead of driving the ball hard, focus on a soft, controlled shot that lands in the kitchen. This neutralizes your opponents' advantage and lets you advance to the net where the majority of points are won.
The Kitchen Dance: Net Control
Welcome to the most crucial real estate in pickleball! Controlling the kitchen line is essential for doubles success. Stay active on your toes, ready to react. Keep your paddle up in a ready position – maintaining proper preparation at the net can dramatically improve your point-winning opportunities.
The Reset Strategy
When in doubt, reset the point! Sometimes the best offense is a good defense. Instead of forcing an aggressive shot, use a reset shot to buy time and regain control. This patient approach frustrates opponents and creates opportunities for high-percentage attacks.
(Photo Source: https://holbrookpickleball.com/blogs/holbrook-blog/unleashing-the-power-of-partnership-a-deep-dive-into-doubles-pickleball-rules-and-strategies)
Putting It All Together
Remember, these strategies aren't just isolated tactics – they're pieces of a larger puzzle that make up your winning game plan. Start by mastering one strategy at a time during practice sessions. Before you know it, you'll be flowing between these techniques naturally!
The beauty of pickleball doubles lies in how these strategies connect and build upon each other. When you combine smart positioning with effective communication and controlled shots, you'll see remarkable improvements in your game.
Ready to take your doubles game to the next level? Grab a partner and start practicing these strategies today. The pickleball court is calling – and victory awaits!
Quick Tip: Record your matches to see these strategies in action. There's nothing like video feedback to help you spot areas for improvement and celebrate your progress!
