The One Thing You Can Say to Your Partner That Will Make or Break the Match

Welcome to Rallies, Rackets & Recommendations: Serving up -Off the Court- Tennis Tips for Ladies Rec League Players

The One Thing You Can Say to Your Partner That Will Make or Break the Match

 Doubles- its a tricky game. And while your tech skills are clearly critical- hitting in the net does not win the point. Doubles takes 2. And the communication in doubles is equally as important as the skills- and so often overlooked. 

Whether you have a new partner- or a long time partner here is one thing you can say to your partner that could  MAKE or BREAK the match. 

We’ve all been there: You miss a shot, and when you look back, you catch your partner rolling her eyes, letting out a deep sigh, or throwing out some unmistakable body language that screams, “You blew it.” It’s awkward, it’s frustrating, and it’s a surefire way to throw off your mojo on the court. *Be sure to follow us on social media @ralliesandrackets- ofc we have a video of just this. 

Partners, listen up! What’s the one thing you can say in this moment that will totally change the game for the better?

Let’s be real: That eye roll or exasperated sigh won’t do much good, and often does more BAD because here is what it does:  it makes your partner think twice about poaching or playing aggressively again. She’s now worried about missing and letting you down. And once the opponents notice that she’s hanging back and has lost confidence, you’re in trouble. You’ve just handed over her entire side of the court as a target!

So, what’s the magic phrase to turn this around?

“That was the right move—try it again!”

By saying this, Here is what you are doing:

1. You keep her confidence up. She knows you believe in her, and are not disappointed in her- even if she missed and we know confidence is everything. 
2. Because  that confidence will encourage her to stay active at the net, which keeps the opponents on their toes. Even if she misses again, they’ll hesitate to take advantage of her side, knowing she’s still a presence. THIS is KEY. YOU NEVER WANT to give up that presence. And you have the ability to effect that. 

Because here is the thing- the moment your partner misses what is common? 

(We’ve all been there ): You miss and then what are you doing at the net? Are you just standing there, broadcasting your frustration and reluctance to try again? It might feel safe, but you’re sending a clear message to your opponents: “Hit it down my alley—I’m done taking risks.”

And this is the Worst thing you can do.

Even if you don’t go for the ball again right away, staying active at the net shows you’re in control of your side of the court. A little bounce, some subtle movement—these things keep you engaged and keep your opponents guessing- hmmm when is she going to try again? Remember, being active and present at the net means you’re still in the game, taking up space, and being a force to reckon with.

NOW you may be thinking- my partner should know to do that. She shouldn’t need me to tell her. And some of you may be thinking. Yes i do that i don't need my partner to tell me. I'm always active. And thats great. Some players are much more confident than others.  BUT ALSO Some partners are also more influential or intimidating than others. And their eye roll is a bit more scary. If you are one of those partners- then this is particularly important to you! 

So why not always go with: 

Empowering Your Partner = Game Changer

And can make the difference in maintaining her presence, keeping them guessing, and helping control the court. EVEN IF- yep even IF she misses again.

Bottom line: Doubles takes two. When you and your partner both stay positive, keep each other engaged, and maintain your presence on the court, you become a team that’s tough to beat. And frustration is easy to get the best of all of us. ALL of us have the ability to shoot out the dreaded eye roll and loud sigh. We do. We are all competitive and it's easy to do.

But by having this on the tip of your tongue: It might be easier to try it. 

So next time you’re on the court and your partner misses, try it: “That was the right move—try it again!” 

You might be surprised at how much of a difference it makes.

Thanks for watching!

Follow us on Social media at Ralliesandrackets for laughs and if this blog was helpful to you- share it with your tennis partner- it just might change your next match!