Master Middle Coverage in Doubles Pickleball: A new pickleball tutorial explains the common mistakes players make when deciding who covers the middle of the court. Miscommunication about middle coverage can lead to missed shots and lost points, but the video offers simple solutions for effective teamwork.

Understanding Middle Coverage
In doubles pickleball, deciding who covers the middle can be tricky. The video debunks the myth that players should always slide over to cover the middle.
Instead, the key is to follow the ball and adjust your position accordingly. When a player hits the ball crosscourt, they should move toward the middle to cover it. This keeps both players in position and prevents confusion.
“If you stay in your corner and don’t cover the middle, you risk missing an easy shot when your teammate leaves it up.” – (coach)
The Golden Rule for Middle Coverage
The golden rule for middle coverage is simple: the player who hits the ball to the crosscourt should slide toward the middle.
This ensures the middle is covered and allows the other player to focus on their line. This strategy prevents players from getting out of position or leaving gaps in the middle, which can lead to easy points for the opponents.
Teamwork and Communication
Effective communication is critical when covering the middle. The video suggests using hand signals or verbal cues to help teammates know when to switch or stay in place.
“The better you communicate, the more in sync you’ll be, and the less likely you’ll miss important shots.” – (coach)
Significance of Mastering Middle Coverage
Mastering middle coverage is essential for effective doubles play. By following the ball and communicating well with your partner, you can cover the court more efficiently and reduce the chances of errors.
This simple strategy can significantly improve a team’s chances of winning points and ultimately the game.
News in Brief: Master Middle Coverage in Doubles Pickleball
A new pickleball tutorial focuses on the common mistake of miscommunicating who covers the middle in doubles play. The video explains that players should follow the ball and adjust their positions instead of always sliding over.
The golden rule is that the player who hits the crosscourt should move toward the middle. Effective communication and teamwork are key to mastering middle coverage and avoiding errors.
ALSO READ: Pickleball’s Speed Up Technique Gives Players an Edge—Here’s How to Master It
