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- Your Return Is Setting Up Their Next Shot 🏓
Your Return Is Setting Up Their Next Shot 🏓
A deeper return gives you time and puts pressure on the third shot.
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Hey PICKLEBACKCLUB,
Ever hit what felt like a perfectly decent return, only to watch your opponent stroll forward and take charge? The problem might not be your swing. It might be where your return lands.
This week, we're making the return of serve work harder for you—with a simple depth target and a drill you can measure. 🏓
Return deep, then prepare for the third shot.
The return isn't just a way to start the rally
In doubles, a short return gives the serving team an easier third shot and more room to move forward. A deep return makes them play from farther back while you and your partner work toward the kitchen line.
The goal isn't to blast a winner. It's to buy time and make the next ball tougher.
1. Pick a deep, generous target
Imagine a rectangle in the back third of the service court, safely inside the baseline and sidelines. Aim there rather than painting the back line. Depth helps; missing long doesn't.
If your opponent is standing unusually far back, adjust the target. Your aim is a difficult third shot, not a predictable gift.
2. Choose height and margin over heroics
Give your return enough net clearance to reach your target comfortably. A controlled, higher-arching return can be more useful than a flat rocket that lands short or sails long.
Example: If your opponent serves deep to your backhand, use a compact swing, send the return high enough to clear the net safely, and prioritize landing deep rather than changing direction at the last second.
3. Recover with your eyes up
After your return, move toward the non-volley zone line with your paddle ready. Watch the server's preparation and split-step as they hit. If your return was short, expect a faster or more aggressive third shot and be prepared to stop sooner.
🎯 The 20-return depth challenge
Mark a large target in the back third of the opposite service court using flat markers. Have a partner serve 20 balls at a comfortable pace, alternating your forehand and backhand when practical.
Score one point for each legal return landing in the target. Record your result out of 20, then repeat next session. Start with a goal of 12/20; once you're consistently there, narrow the target or ask for more varied serves.
Bonus: after every return, recover forward and call out “ready” when you've established your balance. Accuracy and recovery both count.
Next time you're tempted to crush a return, try making your opponent hit the harder third shot instead. That's a pretty satisfying trade.
See you on the court,
The PICKLEBACKCLUB Team 🥒
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