- Shift & move with the direction of the ball you, your partner, or your opponent hit, EVERY TIME. Often a single step can make a huge difference.
- Hit your volleys with deliberate directional intent.
- Play aggressive and take some risks when you are queen/king, you are up 2 points, play like it.
- Be prepared and expect every ball to be returned, split step and go after every ball.
- Follow the ball onto your racket, and keep your head still until the shot has been played. This will improve your balance and consistency.
- Stay low. Being low helps your balance, gives you more power & control, and helps you spring into action to cover more court.
- Do not be concerned with a win or a loss, Live Ball is NOT match play, it’s improvement play.
- Your USTA rating, your club team level or record, or even how much time you spend as queen/king doesn’t matter in cat assessments. What matters is movement, having control of the ball, and effort.
- Practicing once or twice a week should allow you to maintain your current level, but if you are looking to improve you should aim to practice at least 3 times per week. 4 to 5 times a week will put yourself in an even better position to advance your game.
- Arrive on time.
Here is a good video on the subject of shifting as a team: youtube.com/watch?v=C192pR9Ucg0
The more you include movement with the ball & directional intent in your Live Ball, the more match wins you will experience in your doubles matches.
