Pickleball Serve Positioning Tips: Senior pro pickleball coach Linda Thompson has shared four easy and smart tips to help doubles players improve their serve. These tips focus on two important things—where to stand and where to aim—to make the return easier to handle and prepare for a strong third shot.
Stand Near the Middle for Stronger Forehands
Linda Thompson says many players serve from wide angles, but this often leads to backhand returns, which are harder to manage. Instead, she advises players to serve from a spot closer to the center. This position makes it easier to hit a forehand on the next shot.
Using a forehand gives players more options, like hitting a drop or drive. Even if someone has a strong backhand, standing in the middle helps move faster and gives better court coverage. It keeps the team more balanced and ready during the point.
Aim Deep and at the Body to Limit Returns
According to Linda Thompson, there are three basic places to aim the serve: crosscourt, at the body, or down the middle. But serving deep and toward the opponent’s body is usually the best choice.
This type of serve makes it harder for the other team to return sharply or at an angle. It also often leads to weaker returns, especially if the returner doesn’t move their feet well. “Serving deep to the body is often the safest and most effective,” said Thompson.
Crosscourt serves might pull the opponent off the court, but they create open angles for returns. Middle serves can be powerful but risky if the aim is even slightly off.
Adjust Your Position Based on Court Side
Thompson says players should apply these same ideas on both sides of the court. When serving from the left side (the ad side), it’s still smart to stand closer to the middle and target the opponent’s backhand.
Going for a wide or middle serve from this side adds more risk. Aiming deep and toward the backhand gives a better chance for a smooth and predictable return.
Always Have a Serve Plan
Linda Thompson explains that a player should never serve just to get the ball in. “Rather than simply getting the serve in play, every serve should be hit with a clear strategy,” she said.
This means planning where to serve based on the kind of return you want to receive. It helps set up a strong third shot and control how the point develops. Players should aim for the return that gives them the best chance to stay in control.
Why These Tips Matter
These serve strategies are simple but important. By changing where they stand and how they aim, players can improve their game. They’ll get better returns, fewer mistakes, and more control of the rally. Thompson’s tips are easy to follow and useful for anyone playing doubles pickleball.
News in Brief: Pickleball Serve Positioning Tips
Senior pro coach Linda Thompson shares four simple tips to improve doubles pickleball serves. Stand near the center, aim deep and toward the body, adjust for each side of the court, and always serve with a plan. These steps can lead to better returns and help control the rally.
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