The closer you are to the net, the more offensive opportunities you have available. Still, net play involves a lot of "defense" to respond to your opponent's passing shots, deep lobs and other attacks.
Your role at the net is very similar in some ways to that of a hockey goalie who must defend his net. Goalies move to cut down opponents' angles of attack, stay on the edges of their skates and crouch slightly, ready to spring in any direction to block the puck. Use these same principles in tennis. Always position yourself to cut down an opponent's angle of attack. Keep your weight forward and stay on your toes. This keeps you poised to intercept passing shots and ready to run down lobs.
Protect the net like a hockey goalie and you will be able not just to defend against shots, but to score, too!
Do aggressive serve-and-volleyers intimidate you when playing doubles? Are you having a difficult time passing your opponent as he or she rushes the net? If so, try hitting to one of the most effective targets — down the middle at the net-rusher's feet. Instead of going for a low-percentage, angled passing shot all of the time, mix it up by hitting to your opponent's feet as he or she is running toward the net. For one, you will be hitting over the lowest part of the net. Also, your opponent will have a tough time hitting an offensive volley or half-volley from below knee level. Don't be afraid to go for the lower-percentage, angled passing shots when you are confident. But remember, it's the shot hit to the net-rusher's feet that might give him or her more problems — and give you the point.
Technique tips:
Targets:
Are your down-the-line forehand shots reliable? Or do your attempts sail too wide or too far toward the center of your opponent's baseline?
The down-the-line shot calls for accurate placement because the target area is smaller than on a crosscourt forehand. One key to developing this accuracy is proper shoulder rotation during your backswing. Try to pivot your upper body so that your front shoulder points down the sideline where you are aiming. This alignment, combined with a good stance in which your feet are also squared off to the sideline, will make it much easier for you to place the ball accurately.
