When playing doubles it is essential to understand what good teamwork really means. Here are my top tips to make sure you are really working as a team;
1) Select the correct partner in the first place when you have a choice - someone you know that can complement your game
2) Play on the sides that will maximise your teams success but be willing to change it if required
3) Speak to each other after each point conveying tactics, direction of serve or sometimes intention on return
4) Share information on opponents strengths and weaknesses
5) Share information on opponents status - is one player faultering or is another hitting a purple patch
6) Be positive generally with each other
7) Encourage each other especially when a poor shot or phase of play is occuring
8) Give positive specific feedback when something is done well
9) Call the line when partner receives
10) Back up each other's line calls
11) Congratulate each in a noticeable physical way so opponents see it (e.g. applaud with hand and racket or high 5 or joint fist pumps)
12) Call out loud on stuff like "mine" or "yours" , "leave it" , "move in" or "back"
13) Look like a tight knit team to intimidate opponents
14) Give partner a kick up the backside when they need it (have to know your partner well for this one)
15) Build partner's confidence
16) Take pressure off partner or give them responsibility (and therefore pressure) as required
17) Keep it fun overall
18) Be honest with them
19) Re-enforce when they have done well at key moments to build confidence
20) Get to know your partner - what do they need right now?