ART-0673: The Volley Against the Return Down the Middle — Handling Central Returns
Executive Summary
Returns hit down the middle of the court create confusion in doubles — both the net player and the server may think the other will take the ball. When you are the net player, you must have a clear decision-making process for handling middle returns. The net player should take balls hit to their forehand side, while the server takes balls hit to their forehand after approaching the net.
The Middle Return
The middle return: (1) is hit down the center of the court, (2) creates confusion about who should take it, (3) is a common tactic to disrupt doubles teams. At the net, the middle return requires clear communication and quick decision-making.
Decision-Making on Middle Returns
The decision process: (1) if the ball is hit to the net player's forehand side, the net player takes it, (2) if the ball is hit to the server's side (after the server approaches), the server takes it, (3) if there is any doubt, the player with the forehand should take it (the stronger shot), (4) call "mine" or "yours" to avoid confusion. The key is clear communication and quick decisions.
Volley Technique on Middle Returns
Against middle returns: (1) the net player should use a punch volley (compact, decisive), (2) redirect cross-court or down-the-line, (3) aim for the open court, (4) do not hesitate — commit to the shot. The key is to take the ball early and redirect it decisively.
Common Errors
Both players going for the ball (collision). Neither player going for the ball (missed opportunity). Confusion about who takes the shot (communication failure). Hesitation (late contact).
Summary
Middle returns require clear communication and quick decision-making. The net player takes forehand-side balls, the server takes their forehand-side balls. Call "mine/yours" and commit to the shot.
Diagnostic & Training Matrix
| Observation | Failure | Result | Corrective Strategy |
|---|---|---|---|
| Both players go for middle ball | Poor communication | Collision | Call "mine/yours" before every point |
| Neither player takes middle ball | Confusion | Missed opportunity | Establish clear decision rules |
| Hesitates on middle returns | Indecision | Late contact | Commit to the shot, do not hesitate |
| Wrong player takes middle ball | Poor decision-making | Weak shot | Forehand player takes middle balls |
Practical Application: "Call It, Take It, Redirect"
Against middle returns: (1) call "mine" or "yours", (2) take the ball decisively, (3) redirect to the open court. Communication is the key.