How to Poach in Tennis

The poach is an interception of the return of serve by the offensive doubles net player. This is a surprise tactic that requires excellent timing, like the steal in baseball. It is a move that is relegated to the more advanced player.

Instructions

Difficulty: Challenging

Things You’ll Need:

• Tennis Shirts
• Tennis Shoes
• Tennis Shorts
• Tennis Socks
• Sports Drinks
• Tennis Bag
• Tennis Balls
• Tennis Racquets

1. Split step once your partner has served and as your opponent makes contact with the ball.
2. Attempt to move to the center of the court.
3. Keep up on your toes at the net to perform this shot.
4. Take the shot aggressively.
5. Cut off the return of service with a volley.
6. Put the ball away.

Tips & Warnings

• Practice split stepping when the returner is making contact with the ball.
• Practice this move with your partner when he/she is serving.
• Jump rope to help develop this move.
• Communicate with your partner what you intend to do at the net (by hand or racquet signals). Some of the best worldclass doubles partners use this technique.