Shadow Doubles Serve & Volley

This drill simulates a doubles serve-and-volley pattern but is played with only two players. By focusing on crosscourt rallies, servers practice serving and immediately volleying, while returners develop control and tactical awareness on returns. The game-like structure makes it a high-performance exercise for mastering doubles patterns, decision-making, and quick transitions at the net.

Setup

• Two players: one designated server (red), one designated returner (black)
• Standard doubles court, but play restricted to crosscourt
• Score played to 5 points before switching roles

Rules & Objectives

• Server begins each point with a serve
• Server must immediately move forward and play only volleys—no groundstrokes or approach shots after the serve
• Returner must direct returns crosscourt
• Players rally within the crosscourt half until one wins the point
• After each point, reset and continue from alternating sides (deuce and ad courts)
• Play to 5 points, then switch roles

Repetition

• Limit the server to one serve per point for added pressure
• Require the returner to use specific return types (e.g., slice, lob, chip-and-charge)
• Add scoring variations (e.g., bonus points for returners hitting a successful lob or servers hitting an angled volley)
• Increase the score target to 10 for extended rallies

Coaching Points

• Servers: build confidence in serve-and-volley execution
• Returners: improve control, accuracy, and adaptability on returns
• Both: sharpen doubles instincts without requiring four players
• Enhances footwork, positioning, and net anticipation
• High-performance training for doubles match scenarios

Drill Tutorial