It’s a fact that many USTA doubles players do not serve and volley regularly, on second serves or at all, even on first serves!!  It is a huge mistake to let your game stagnate by keeping to the baseline.  Even players that can’t run can move forward to the net by the second shot after their serve.  One reason that this is so important is if you can’t take the net then the other team can.  In that case you will lose too many service games to be effective. 

 

So what is the story on the split-step?  Why is “rushing” the net a bad term?  First, the split-step should bring your weight into balance and bring your forward momentum under control.  Getting to the first volley is a two part run, not a headlong sprint forward.  Use your momentum from the service motion to begin moving into the court quickly, after a few steps make a split step like kids would do playing hopscotch.  The last step should not be a leap forward, but a gathering step which will leave you able to start forward again or change direction to one side or the other and move to the ball.  “Rushing” is not a good description of what should be happening as it will leave you unbalanced and lunging for the ball.  Even if the ball is within easy reach the lack of balance will result in unnecessary errors.

The first volley is a transition shot not a put-away shot.  Its purpose is to get you to the net safely where you can then be in a strong position.  So here is the rhythm.  Serve, step, step, split.  Step, step, volley.  Step, step, split at the net.  Volley through the middle.  Ta-da!!

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Too many players are resigned to the fact that they CAN’T serve and volley and they are missing the essence of doubles which is taking advantage of the geometry of the court and putting the other team in a less advantageous position.  It is great fun to get to the net and when the other team tries to hit through or over you to be able to convert the point consistently.  This is in contrast to staying back and having a baseline rally with the receiver.  Baseline exchanges are generally a 50/50 proposition. 

BRUCE’S GUARANTEE: If you work at and become proficient at moving in behind your serves your level will rise at least ½ point.