"The Art of Doubles..." - Book review by Lyle Goldberg

The Art of Doubles: Winning Tennis Strategies & Drills – Second Edition by Pat Blaskower – Book Review by Lyle Goldberg

As primarily a doubles player, I am always looking for ways to improve my game, whether it be through on-court coaching, online lessons, or books. More often than not, I find myself constantly going back to this book for helpful advice.

The author distills 30 plus years of coaching and teaching into core concepts and strategies. She outlines the key areas where all doubles teams must excel - proper court position, intelligent shot selection, superior poaching skills, control of net, mental toughness, and good communication. 

 Here are some important tips from the author:

•  Serve down the T 80% of the time to allow the net person to poach.

• The player with the stronger backhand should play the deuce court to return serves down the middle.

• Use low-percentage high-risk shots intelligently and only when the situation calls for it.

• The key to good poaching is knowing which balls to play and which to leave.

• Use Australian and “I” Formations to give your opponents a different look on the court or when your standard tactics are not working. Also learn how to defend against these strategies.

• Use a staggered formation at the net to protect against the lob.

The book can be purchased online through your favorite bookseller and it is also available for borrowing through Halifax Public Libraries.