In this episode
On the 252nd episode of GreatBase Tennis podcast, Steve Smith, Dave Anderson, and Ivan Ozerets discuss tennis doubles. The trio is confident that their conversation will help listeners improve their overall understanding of doubles.
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show notes
In this episode of the GreatBase Tennis Podcast, we dive into the world of doubles tennis, a format that often gets overshadowed by singles. Joined by co-hosts Ivan Ozerets and Dave Anderson, Steve Smith express a strong passion for bringing doubles back to its former glory. We discuss the importance of doubles from recreational play all the way up to professional tournaments and its role in developing well-rounded tennis players. Dave shares insightful thoughts on how playing doubles can exponentially build crucial skills and teamwork that are often neglected in singles play, emphasizing its necessity for player development.
We delve into the structure of doubles play, highlighting the distinct roles and responsibilities of each player on a team. From identifying the crucial aspects of serving effectively, setting up poaching strategies, to the importance of communication, we detail how creating synergy between partners at the net can lead to greater success. Dave stresses that for a serve to be effective, not only must it land in but players must target their serves and excel in their subsequent volleys, showcasing the importance of precision and strategy in doubles.
Additionally, we explore tactics on court, such as the roles of the server and their partner, as well as the responsibilities of the returner and how to best position themselves. The conversation shifts to practical advice on recognizing effective formations, developing habits, and the strategic application of signals and formations during play. We touch upon historical contexts, acknowledging significant doubles players and techniques that have shaped the game, while also reflecting on the current state of doubles and its decline in popularity.
Our discussion includes entertaining anecdotes and experiences from personal involvement in the sport, illustrating how the game has evolved over the years. We address the emerging trends in junior and college tennis, the high-pressure atmosphere of doubles matches, and how junior players are often prioritized on singles rather than honing their doubles skills.
In offering solutions, we discuss various training drills designed to enhance doubles play, emphasizing collaboration among players and fostering a cooperative learning environment. From ghost doubles to one-bounce doubles, we provide listeners with actionable drills that can translate to improved gameplay, advocating for a renaissance in doubles training within coaching practices.
As the episode wraps up, we reiterate the importance and joy of playing doubles, encouraging players of all levels to embrace the uniqueness of the format. We highlight the camaraderie it creates and the essential skills it cultivates, cementing our collective mission to keep the art of doubles alive and thriving in the tennis community.
