Most points begin with the one up/one back formation. Let's talk about "job descriptions" for the serving team and the returning team.

• Server: get the first serve in. Ideally, deep and down the middle is where the serve should be placed for doubles. This takes the angles away from the returners, and also may allow the server's partner to poach or simply pick off returns.
   
• Server's partner: be active at the net; be ready to poach off a deep, down the middle serve . Basically, end the point if you touch the ball when you are close to the net.
   
• Returner: return the serve cross-court (away from the opposing net player) and deep (to keep the server on the baseline).
   
• Returner's partner: watch and call the serve for partner, then immediately focus on opposing net player until return has safely passed player.

Remember, the one up/one back formation is fine as long as opponents are one up/one back.


We will address how to play and move while in the one up/one back formation next time.

Rita Dotson
Tennis Pro, Roger Scott Tennis Center