Partner communication: tracking opponent positions
Key takeaway from our Guru
How do I communicate opponent positions to my partner during a point?
Provide a continuous commentary on where the opponents are using the terms line and cross from your partner's perspective. Give them the information they need to choose their own shot instead of telling them where to hit the ball.
What this lesson covers
Effective doubles communication requires a continuous commentary on opponent positions, similar to a horse racing announcer. Players must describe where the opponents are located, such as both back, coming in, at the net, or tight near the net. This information is vital when a partner is tracking a high ball or has been lobbed and cannot see the other side of the court. By providing these updates, the partner can make informed tactical decisions rather than relying on guesswork.
To define opponent positions, the most effective method is using line and cross from the partner's perspective, as this aligns with their natural shot selection. Avoid using names or right and left, which can become confusing if players swap sides. Furthermore, establish shared trigger words for specific scenarios, such as out or in for judging balls, and cover or come when dealing with a rulo. Communication must be loud and constant to be heard over the noise of the court, but it should never involve telling the partner exactly where to hit the ball. This approach provides the necessary information without creating unnecessary pressure or doubt.
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Original video
Added on Sep 19, 2026
Learn how to communicate effectively with your partner during points.
Description
In this video, I break down one of the most important communication skills in padel: helping your partner understand where the opponents are during the point. This is not about shouting “mine” or “yours”. Once you know who is taking the ball, the next level is giving your partner useful information about the opponents’ position, especially when they are focused on the ball and cannot track what is happening at the other end of the court. We look at: How to describe opponent positions When to communicate during the point Why line and cross is the best call Why you should avoid telling your partner exactly where to hit the ball How to build simple shared words with your partner Why good padel communication should be loud, clear and continuous Good doubles communication is not about being bossy. It is about giving your partner the information they need to make better decisions. Chapters 00:00 Intro — unexpected voice moment 00:04 Welcome back 00:12 Are you actually training communication? 00:21 Communication during the point 00:53 Moving beyond “mine” and “yours” 01:11 Helping your partner understand opponent position 01:29 Defining court positions: back, coming in, at the net, tight 01:57 When to communicate with your partner 02:28 Scenario 1: your partner is playing a high ball 03:09 Scenario 2: your pair has been lobbed 03:56 The horse racing commentator idea 04:48 First communication practice: both players moving forwards 05:21 Defining left and right sides 05:35 Option 1: using names 06:14 Option 2: right court and left court 06:58 Best option: line and cross 08:09 Why not tell your partner where to hit? 09:02 Give information, not instructions 09:17 Building shared words with your partner 09:25 “Let’s go” 09:52 “Out” and “in” 10:34 “Cover” or “come” 11:13 Be loud enough 11:37 Summary 12:29 Final thoughts #Padel #PadelTips #PadelCoaching
Good for
Skill level
Beginner, Intermediate, High Intermediate, Advanced, High Advanced
Court position
Both sides
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