Champions vs. Challengers

This competitive doubles drill puts two teams head-to-head in a “Champions vs. Challengers” format. The challengers must win three consecutive points from different positions (baseline, service line, and overhead) in order to dethrone the reigning champions. The game emphasizes teamwork, consistency, and net play while keeping the energy high and competitive.

Setup

• 4 players (2 doubles teams)
• One team designated as the Champions, the other as the Challengers
• Coach or feeder with balls
• Full doubles court

Rules & Objectives

• Both teams start at the baseline
• Coach feeds the first ball to the Challengers, and the point is played out
• If the Challengers win, they advance forward to start the next rally from the service line
• If they lose, they rotate out, and a new challenger team steps in
• From the service line, the Challengers receive a new feed and play out another point
• If they win again, they advance to the third challenge: the coach feeds an overhead for them to attack
• Winning all three points in a row allows the Challengers to swap sides and become the new Champions

Repetition

• Rotate in new challenger teams quickly to keep intensity high
• Add restrictions, such as:Champions are not allowed to lob
• Challengers must finish points at the net
• Play to a set time or until one team successfully holds the Champion position for multiple rotations

Coaching Points

• Builds doubles teamwork and communication
• Practices baseline consistency, net volleys, and overheads in one sequence
• Simulates competitive match pressure in a fun format
• Keeps groups engaged with short, high-energy rotations

Drill Tutorial