One
of the most Common mistakes I find at all levels of paddle is
in net positioning. Many club players play the net "your
half, myhalf", which leaves too much room for their opponents
to find holes and lob into spaces that force backhand overheads.
Knowing how to correctly play the net in thirds can aid a weaker
team to beating a more advanced team.
A
The
backhand overhead is one of the toughest shots in paddle
because it is hard to control and place the ball back
deep into the court. If the opponent lobs deep, it pulls
you back. Frequently you have tolunge and leap to reach
the backhand overhead. The tendency is to snap your wrist,
which sends the ball fast and short in the court. That
puts you off balance and out of position for the next
shot., which opens an easy shot for your opponents to
attack, with you off the net!
B
When
playing an overhead hit out of the backhand corner, (ad
court), the net players shift position. One player covers
the alley and the second player covers the middle of the
court. By playing the net in a 2:1 ratio you avoid the
possibility of having to hit backhand overheads. Your
team is balanced so the correct player takes the most
effective overheads, and you can place the ball where
it can't be attacked - deep in the court with controlled
speed and spin. This way you remain a balanced, controlled
and ready position, with the highest percentage of court
covered as a team.
