Doubles Done Right: How to Talk Your Way to Better Pickleball
Pickleball doubles is all about teamwork, and if you and your partner aren’t talking, you’re probably making things harder than they need to be. The best teams don’t just react - they communicate. Figuring out who’s taking the middle or keeping each other hyped up - good communication can make all the difference between a win and walking off the court wondering what just happened.
Let’s break down how to keep things smooth, clear, and frustration-free when playing doubles.
Call Your Shots - Every Time
If you and your partner aren’t talking, you’re guessing. And guessing leads to awkward standoffs where both of you either swing at the same ball, clunk paddles, or let it drop between you.
If you’re going for it, say “Mine.”
If your partner should take it, say “Yours or You.”
It’s that simple. The more you call your shots, the faster you’ll sync up.
Know Who’s Covering the Middle
The middle of the court can feel like no man’s land if you and your partner haven’t talked about who’s in charge there.
Typically, the player with the stronger forehand should take middle shots.
If one of you gets pulled out wide, the other should shift to cover the middle. This is called “squeezing the middle.”
If you’re unsure, decide before the match who has priority in different situations.
Eliminate the confusion, and you’ll stop giving away easy points.
Use Hand Signals and Non-Verbal Cues
Sometimes, words aren’t an option. Mid-rally, you don’t have time for a full conversation, but a quick hand signal, nod, or shift in positioning can say a lot.
A tap on the paddle can mean “I got this.”
A point or glance can signal a poach or switch.
A quick nod lets your partner know you’re in position.
Small cues like these help keep your play fluid without unnecessary chatter.
Stay Positive - No Blame Allowed
Let’s be real - mistakes happen. You’ll both miss shots, hit the net, or completely whiff on an easy putaway. The worst thing you can do? Turn on your partner.
Instead of calling out mistakes, focus on the next play. Having a short memory is something the top players in most sports all have in common.
A quick “Nice try!” or “We got this” keeps morale up.
If something needs adjusting, phrase it as a team solution: “Let’s try shifting left on their serves.”
A supportive partner is a winning partner. Keep the energy up, and you’ll both play better.
Talk Strategy Between Points
Some of the best communication happens between rallies. These quick check-ins can help you adjust your game on the fly.
Notice a weak spot? Let’s keep targeting their backhand.
Opponent playing aggressively? Let’s slow it down and reset more.
Serve placement struggling? Try aiming deeper.
Keep it simple - no over complicating things. The goal is quick, useful adjustments.
Move as a Unit
You and your partner should be moving together, not playing two separate singles games.
If your partner moves forward, move with them, otherwise an opponent will continue to hit at the player that is back.
Stay connected in positioning - don’t leave open gaps.
If one of you gets lobbed, the other should rotate to cover.
Good positioning is just as important as good shot selection. If you’re both in sync, your court coverage improves instantly.
Build a Rhythm Off the Court
Doubles teams that gel on the court often have chemistry off the court, too. While you don’t need to be best friends, getting to know your partner’s tendencies will make your gameplay smoother.
Play regularly together if possible.
Talk about what’s working and what needs adjusting after matches.
Pay attention to each other’s strengths and play styles.
The more familiar you are with each other, the less you’ll have to think about communication - it’ll just happen naturally.
Bottom Line
Good communication isn’t about fancy strategies or long-winded discussions - it’s about being clear, staying positive, and making sure you and your partner move as a team. Call your shots, adjust when needed, and keep the vibes supportive. Do that, and you’ll have a doubles partnership that actually works.
