The Challenge Zone

Consider how the tennis court is perceived in doubles by players of different levels and ages. The prevailing philosophy is to stay back or close in, but definitely stay out of the middle. Normal strategy in doubles is “the team that closes in has a better chance to win” and the baseline player should be trying to set up his partner for a winning net play.

I have a contrarian view. I believe that if you are an average club or a senior player your court perspective should be different than that of a world class professional or junior. You can dream of playing like professionals but if you want to maximize your results need to be practical on the court. You need to learn to play the Challenge Zone with confidence.

An unusually high percentage of mistakes are made from two steps in front of the baseline to a step or two in front of the service line. Many seniors and average club players have physical, athletic or experience limitations that prevent them from moving quickly through the middle of the court, regardless whether the movement is forward or backward. That is simply a fact.

The key to overcoming…