Quick Answer
Getting to the kitchen is only part of the job. You also need to know where to stand, how to move with your partner, and when not to give up useful position.
Stay Close Enough to Pressure
Standing too far back gives opponents more space and can make low balls harder to handle. Establish a position that lets you protect your feet while still reacting comfortably.
Move With the Ball
As the ball moves wide, both partners should usually shift so the team remains connected and large gaps do not open.
Protect the Middle
- ✓Avoid creating a large gap between partners.
- ✓Communicate responsibility on balls through the middle.
- ✓Recover after reaching wide.
- ✓Do not overcommit to one sideline unless the rally demands it.
Do Not Back Up Automatically
Backing away can be useful against certain attacks, but many developing players retreat even when they could hold the line and maintain pressure.
Positioning Drills
- ✓Shadow movement with a partner as the ball moves side to side.
- ✓Kitchen games with a rule that partners must remain connected.
- ✓Wide-dink recovery drills.
- ✓Middle-ball communication drills.
Common Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
How close should I stand to the kitchen line?
Close enough to protect useful court position while still allowing comfortable balance and reaction. Exact spacing varies by player and situation.
Should partners stand shoulder to shoulder?
Not literally. They should move as a connected unit while adjusting spacing to the ball and opponent positions.
Why do opponents keep hitting between us?
The team may be leaving too much space, moving independently, or failing to communicate middle responsibility.
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