By Stephen Huss, Program Director, Huss 75 76 Tennis At Crooked Creek
Players generally have all or at least one of the following things they fear when they are playing doubles tennis. I know I had one of them myself.
- Fear of getting passed down the line.
- Fear of getting hit by the ball.
- Fear of getting lobbed.
Be honest with yourself and own up to which ones apply to you when playing doubles. For me, it was getting lobbed! These things make you a less effective doubles player, and a less desirable partner on court. When you decide to be brave and change this, you will immediately be a better player and partner. For me, it was about improving my cross-over steps footwork when going back for the overhead. As soon as I did this, I felt free to close the net tighter and be more effective with my volleys; and I had the confidence to get back for the lob and put the overhead away.
Face your fears and your doubles will improve. Little by little will add up to a lot.
About Stephen: Stephen Huss is from Melbourne, Australia. He was an All American in singles and doubles at Auburn University and is a former National Women’s coach. He has coached Sofia Kenin, Jennifer Brady, and Caroline Dolehide. Huss is a former assistant coach at Virginia Tech (men’s tennis) where the team earned a #12 national ranking. He also is the 2005 Wimbledon Men’s Doubles Champion. Huss has competed in 37 grand slams, won 4 ATP titles, 17 Challenger Titles, and 8 Future Titles. Stephen runs his Elite Tennis Program, Stephen Huss 75 76 Tennis out of Crooked Creek. More info: sceneytennis.net/stephen-huss-75-76-tennis.
