The goal is to work as a team, not as individuals. The goal of a good doubles team is to take control of the net. There are three main ways to play side by side, both up at the net: First, you can serve and volley; second, you can return and come in; and third, you can hit an approach shot and follow it to the net. Theses are called transition skills. They are the methods we use to play in tandem at the net. Once the players are at the net, movement is together. If my partner moves to the left, I must also move with him or her to the left. The ideal distance between us is 11 feet. We would like to maintain this distance moving up, side to side, or back as a team. The best way to play doubles is both up; the second best way is both back; and the least best way is to play one up and one back.
