Finding The Right Partner

Beach doubles is a blast. But if you’re competitive, you’re gonna want to win too. To do that, you each have a role to play. One that involves trust, respect, and response under stress. The two of you are splitting up duties that normally require six players on an indoor court.

Each player must accomplish a multitude of tasks on a given play. If you’re on offense, the same player must pass and attack. His/her partner must give a good set and call out the open spot on the court. If the shot is dug, then they must transition immediately to defense where one player blocks and the other defends the backcourt. Blockers normally signal where they will emphasize their block (line or angle) and the defender will take the opposite area.

The conventional partner model now-a-days involves a player that does all the blocking and another that does all the defending. The blocker normally plays left side, is the taller player, and (ideally) sets well for his/her defender. The defender normally plays the right side, plays all the defense in the backrow, and (ideally) is an outstanding attacker. The downside to this model is if the opposing team serves the blocker every ball, they can tire out quickly because of the excessive amount of jumping required.

Another model involves what’s called split blocking. This means whosever turn it is to serve, will be the defender and the other player, the blocker. This is a great way to conserve energy as a team, but you run the risk of not getting many digs when the taller player is playing defense.

In conclusion, assess your strengths as a player. If you’re tall and can jump, you probably need to be a full time blocker. Spend a lot of time practicing your setting so defenders will want to play with you. Don’t be afraid to smash the balls that are served to you. It sends the message you aren’t to be trifled with. If you’re a quick and agile defender with great ball control, practice your defending and getting right up to attack with strong shots and spikes. Your taller blocker partner may not be a good passer either, so be prepared to set well from anywhere on the court.

In summary, find your counterpart, your other half. The person that can do the things you can’t. Who knows, you might even win a few matches.

Stay hungry. Stay focused. Conduct yourself with class.

-Coach Liggett