Four players still developing their serves can begin with an underarm feed or overarm throw. LTA’s beginner doubles guide suggests adapting the first ball or counting points within a set period. Start by creating rallies, then schedule a separate block with actual serves to cover both serving and subsequent shots.
Our first organising step is to agree who starts, where the ball must land and when roles change. For example, begin once a feed bounces in the diagonal service box and repeat a feed that misses it. Wait for the receiver to be ready so the first exchange has a predictable start.
Use the opening block to learn the four positions. The feeder begins behind the baseline, with the partner near the net on the other half. The receiver prepares diagonally opposite near the baseline, with the partner near the service line. LTA uses these starting references before movement responds to the return and the opponent’s attacking options.
For timed play, agree the finish and treatment of an unfinished final point. Rotate after each block so everyone experiences starting, returning and both partner roles. Alongside the score, record how often the first ball actually starts a rally. Frequent failed starts give a reason to slow the feed or adjust its position.
Begin the next block with actual serves. LTA’s practice guide explains that serving includes the return and the server’s third-ball shot. Observe how the receiver’s position and preparation time change from a feed, while the server prepares to play again after the opening stroke.
If serving repeatedly prevents rallies, alternate feed and serve blocks. Use cross-court returns towards the server during feeds to reduce the opposing volleyer’s involvement, then focus first on completing the serve and return in the service block. The group gets rally time while each player still practises serving.
Label the session record with its starting method and rotation. Begin the next meeting under the same conditions before adjusting. When moving to normal games, apply the two service attempts and the set’s service and receiving order; keep timed scoring and feeds within their chosen practice blocks.
