This drill is designed for two doubles players (A and B); the coach (F) can take up the net position (e.g. server’s partner).
The purpose of this drill is for one of the players to practice serve placement (A) while the other to practice strategic serve return (B) – all these are necessary skills for competitive doubles players.
Drill:
Player A is the server; he will aim all his serves close to the center line (down-the-T).
Player B will practice returning the serve toward the two possible doubles options meant to avoid the opposing net player.
Return Options that the returner (B) should send the ball to:
1. Cross-Court
2. Lob Over the Net Player
The coach (at the net) gives instructions and acts as an “opponent” that the returner must avoid (hit away from).
No point is played out – just serve and return of serve practice.
After about 5-7 minutes players switch sides and roles.
Practice this drill on both sides: deuce and ad.