The Hunter and the Helper

The Hunter is closer to the net and hits “close to close.”

The System starts with the definitions of the two roles on a doubles team, the role of the Hunter and role of the Helper.

The Hunter is the player closer to the ball. He is always closer to the net. The key to the Hunter’s shot selection is that he hits “close to close” on high volleys and overheads. This means hitting in the direction of the opponent closest to the net.

The position of the Hunter is determined by the position of the baseline opponent. The closer the opponent to the baseline, the closer the Hunter is to the net.

The Hunter is always somewhat turned or partially sideways at the net with his toes pointing to the ball. From this position, the Hunter moves forward diagonally toward the ball rather than laterally.

The Hunter has an area of responsibility and must be in the center of all possible shots in that area. The Hunter cannot just “cover their alley.” He must cover his part of the middle of the court as well.

The Hunter looks to pick off volleys at the net when their partner sets…