What is Platform Tennis?
Platform Tennis, popularly known as “paddle”, is a racquet sport that is mostly played in the United States and Canada. It is a fast-paced game that is similar to doubles tennis, played in an outdoor court that is enclosed by a wire fence. The court is smaller than a regular tennis court, measuring 44ft x 20ft, and is slightly elevated by a platform. The game is played with a hard paddle and a low-compression ball, which is slightly larger and fuzzier than a regular tennis ball.
History of Platform Tennis
Platform Tennis was invented in 1928 by two American tennis enthusiasts, Fessenden Blanchard and James Cogswell. They were looking for a way to play tennis outdoors during the winter months. The game quickly gained in popularity, and the first official court was built in Scarsdale, New York in 1934. In the 1950s, paddle tennis had spread across the nation, and the American Platform Tennis Association (APTA) was formed in 1960. The game is now played by tens of thousands of people around the world.
Rules of Platform Tennis
Platform Tennis is a doubles game, with two players on each side of the net. The game is usually played to 11 points, but can also be played to 15 or 21 points, depending on the level of play. Players must serve from behind the back line, and must serve diagonally. The rules of tennis apply to the game, with the exception of the serve. Unlike tennis, a player can serve underhand in platform tennis.
Can You Serve Underhand in Platform Tennis?
The answer to this question is a definite yes. In platform tennis, a player can serve underhand. This is allowed, as long as the serve is done in a legal manner, such as an underhand or a sidearm serve. The player must also make sure that the serve is done correctly and does not interfere with the opponent’s ability to return the ball.
Benefits of Serving Underhand
Serving underhand in platform tennis can be beneficial in a number of ways. It can provide a player with more control over the serve and allow them to place the ball more precisely. It can also be used as a surprise tactic to throw off opponents who may not be expecting an underhand serve. An underhand serve can also be used to reduce the speed of the ball, making it easier to return.
Techniques for Serving Underhand
Serving underhand in platform tennis requires a few different techniques. The first step is to stand in the correct position, with the feet shoulder-width apart and the non-dominant foot slightly in front of the dominant foot. The player should then grip the paddle with the dominant hand and hold it at shoulder height. From there, the player should swing the paddle up from the shoulder and forward, making sure to keep the arm straight and the wrist loose. The motion should be smooth and continuous, and the paddle should be released at the top of the swing.
Common Mistakes when Serving Underhand
Despite the benefits of serving underhand in platform tennis, there are some common mistakes that players make when attempting to do so. One of the most common mistakes is to release the paddle too late, which can cause the ball to go too high or too wide of the court. Another mistake is to swing the paddle too hard, which can cause the ball to go too fast and be difficult to return. Finally, some players swing the paddle too low, which can cause the ball to go too low and into the net.
Tips for Serving Underhand
There are a few tips that players can keep in mind to help them serve underhand effectively in platform tennis. One of the most important tips is to practice. As with any skill, practice makes perfect, and it is important to get comfortable with the motion before attempting to serve underhand in a game. Additionally, it is important to focus on the technique and not the power. It is better to have a consistent, accurate serve than a powerful one that is inconsistent.
Strategies for Serving Underhand
In addition to the tips for serving underhand, there are also some strategies that players can keep in mind. One of the most important strategies is to use the serve to set up the next shot. By serving accurately and in the right location, it can be easier to set up the next shot and put pressure on the opponent. Additionally, it can be beneficial to vary the serve. By mixing up the speed, spin, and placement of the serve, it can be more difficult for opponents to anticipate and return the ball.
Conclusion
In conclusion, serving underhand in platform tennis is allowed and can be beneficial in a number of ways. It can provide a player with more control over the serve and allow them to place the ball more precisely. Additionally, it can be used as a surprise tactic to throw off opponents who may not be expecting an underhand serve. By keeping these tips and strategies in mind, players can become more effective when serving underhand in platform tennis.