Mixed doubles pickleball is more than just two people sharing a court—it's a blend of communication, positioning, and smart shot selection. While the fundamentals of the game remain the same, the dynamics can shift based on each player's strengths, styles, and tendencies. Here's how to approach mixed doubles for maximum success and enjoyment.
1. Play to Your Strengths (and Your Partner's)
Mixed doubles often feature partners with different athletic backgrounds and skill sets.
• If one partner has a stronger net game, let them take more responsibility up front.
• If the other has a powerful drive or lob, design plays that set up those shots.
• Recognize who's better at defending hard drives versus handling soft dink rallies.
Tip: Build points that allow each of you to do what you do best.
2. Master Court Positioning
In mixed doubles, teams sometimes use "stacking"—starting both players on the same side after the serve or return—to keep the stronger forehand in the middle or to protect a weaker backhand.
• Keep the middle covered—most points are won there.
• Avoid leaving large gaps; stay connected and move as a unit.
• Don't over-cover your partner's side unless planned—abandoning your zone leads to easy winners.
3. Use Smart Shot Selection
Mixed doubles rallies often turn into a chess match of placement over power.
• Hit down the middle to cause hesitation or force a weaker shot.
• Target the weaker player when appropriate, but mix it up so you're not predictable.
• Soft game first: Dinks and drops set up offensive opportunities.
• Drive only when you see an opening or your opponent's paddle is down.
4. Communicate Constantly
Miscommunication can sink even the most talented team.
• Call out who's taking middle balls ("Mine!" or "Yours!").
• Signal serve and return plans—especially if stacking.
• Give feedback between points without assigning blame—stay solution-focused.
Tip: Encourage each other; positive energy can swing momentum in your favor.
Mixed doubles can sometimes come with subtle pressure—especially if opponents try to target one player.
• If you're being targeted, embrace it as more opportunities to improve.
• If your partner is being targeted, support them by poaching when appropriate and helping control the pace.
• Stay patient—mixed doubles points can be longer because players avoid risk until the perfect chance appears.
In mixed doubles, the stronger net player (regardless of gender) often has more chances to poach—intercepting a ball meant for their partner.
• Poach only when you're confident you can end the point or apply pressure.
• Cover for your partner when you do poach to avoid leaving their side exposed.
7. Respect the Partnership
The best mixed doubles teams are built on trust and mutual respect.
• Don't dominate the game to the point your partner feels sidelined.
• Don't retreat into passivity and expect your partner to do all the work.
• Share the court, share the glory.
Mixed doubles pickleball is not about one player carrying the other—it's about blending two styles into one winning strategy. By communicating well, playing to your strengths, and understanding positioning and shot selection, you'll create a team that's tough to beat and fun to play with.
And remember—if you and your partner are smiling more than frowning, you're already winning.
If you'd like, I can also make you a "Mixed Doubles Game Plan Sheet"—a quick-reference PDF for positioning, signals, and play calls you can review before matches. That way, you and your partner step onto the court already in sync.
Do you want me to prepare that game plan sheet for you?
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