Platform tennis is a fast-paced, outdoor racquet sport that blends elements of tennis and paddleball. Played on an elevated court surrounded by screens, the game offers a unique and exciting experience, particularly during the colder months. This sport, which is often played in doubles, requires quick reflexes, strategy, and teamwork. It is also a great way to stay active while enjoying a competitive environment. Unlike traditional tennis, platform tennis uses paddles and a smaller court, making it more accessible for players of all ages and skill levels.
In this article, we’ll explore the fundamentals of platform tennis, including the rules, equipment, and strategies needed to succeed. Whether you’re a newcomer or an experienced player looking to refine your skills, this guide will walk you through the steps of how to play platform tennis.
See Also: How to Play Mixed Doubles Tennis?
1. Understanding Platform Tennis
What is Platform Tennis?
Platform tennis, also known as paddle tennis, originated in the United States in the 1920s. It was created as a winter sport to be played outdoors during colder months, using a court built on an elevated platform. The raised platform allows the court surface to stay dry, and heaters are often installed underneath to melt snow and ice.
The game is played with a solid paddle and a depressurized ball. The court is smaller than a tennis court, measuring 44 feet long and 20 feet wide, and is surrounded by a 12-foot-high wire screen. The ball can be played off the screens, which adds an exciting dynamic to the gameplay, similar to squash.
Why Play Platform Tennis?
Platform tennis is a fun and social sport that combines the best aspects of tennis and paddleball. Some key reasons why people enjoy playing platform tennis include:
Accessibility: The smaller court and the use of paddles make the game easier to learn for beginners, while still offering a challenging experience for advanced players.
Social Atmosphere: Platform tennis is usually played in doubles, promoting teamwork and camaraderie. The community aspect of the sport is one of its most appealing features.
Year-Round Play: With heated courts and durable equipment, platform tennis can be played even in the winter, making it a great way to stay active throughout the year.
Strategic Gameplay: The use of screens in platform tennis adds an additional layer of strategy, as players must be mindful of both the ball and their surroundings.
2. Equipment Needed to Play Platform Tennis
Paddles
Unlike tennis, platform tennis uses solid paddles instead of strung racquets. Platform tennis paddles are typically made of composite materials, such as graphite or carbon fiber, with perforations on the paddle face to reduce air resistance. The paddles are smaller than tennis racquets, measuring about 18 inches long and 9.5 inches wide, with a textured surface to help generate spin on the ball.
When selecting a paddle, consider factors such as weight, balance, and grip size. Heavier paddles provide more power, while lighter paddles offer greater control and maneuverability. Choose a paddle that suits your playing style and comfort level.
Ball
The ball used in platform tennis is smaller than a traditional tennis ball and has less bounce. It is made of rubber and is depressurized to adapt to the smaller court and the fast-paced nature of the game. The ball’s lower bounce helps to keep rallies going and makes it easier to control in tight spaces.
Court and Screens
The platform tennis court is significantly smaller than a standard tennis court, making it easier to cover and ideal for fast-paced play. The court dimensions are 44 feet long and 20 feet wide, and it is surrounded by a 12-foot-high wire fence. The fence, or screen, is integral to the game, as the ball can bounce off the screens and remain in play.
Shoes and Clothing
Footwear is important in platform tennis, as the sport involves quick lateral movements, sudden stops, and starts. Platform tennis shoes should provide good grip and support for fast-paced play. Tennis shoes or court-specific shoes with durable outsoles and cushioning are ideal for this sport.
Since platform tennis is often played in cooler weather, it’s also essential to dress in layers. Wear moisture-wicking athletic gear and bring extra layers to stay warm during outdoor matches.
3. Rules and Scoring in Platform Tennis
The Court Layout
The platform tennis court is divided into two halves by a net, similar to a tennis court. There are service boxes on each side of the net, where players must serve the ball to start each point. The entire court is enclosed by screens, which are in play during the match.
Serving
The server must stand behind the baseline and serve the ball underhand. The ball must bounce once before being hit, and it must land in the opponent’s diagonal service box. Unlike tennis, there is only one serve per point, meaning there are no second serves if the first serve is a fault.
If the serve hits the net and lands in the correct service box, it is considered a “let,” and the server is allowed to serve again. However, if the serve hits the net and lands outside the service box, it is considered a fault, and the receiving team wins the point.
Playing the Point
Once the ball is in play, players can use their paddles to return the ball over the net. The ball can be hit before it bounces or after it bounces once. Players are allowed to use the screens to keep the ball in play. If the ball hits the screen on the fly, it is considered out, but if the ball bounces on the court and then hits the screen, it remains in play.
Rallies in platform tennis tend to be long and strategic, with players using a combination of groundstrokes, volleys, and overhead smashes to outmaneuver their opponents.
Scoring
Platform tennis uses the same scoring system as tennis. A match is typically played in a best-of-three sets format, with each set being won by the first team to win six games. Each game is played to four points, with the following point progression:
0 points = Love
1 point = 15
2 points = 30
3 points = 40
4 points = Game
If both teams reach 40 points in a game, the score is called “deuce,” and the game continues until one team wins two consecutive points.
Tiebreaks
If both teams win six games in a set, a tiebreaker is played to determine the winner of the set. The tiebreaker is played to seven points, with the first team to reach seven points (and be ahead by at least two points) winning the tiebreaker and the set.
4. Basic Techniques and Strategies for Platform Tennis
Groundstrokes
Groundstrokes are essential in platform tennis, as they help you control the ball and set up points. The forehand and backhand strokes are the foundation of your game, allowing you to hit consistent shots from the baseline. When hitting groundstrokes, focus on maintaining a compact swing, as the smaller court requires quick reactions.
Forehand: The forehand is typically hit with one hand and is your most powerful shot. Keep your paddle face slightly open, and aim to hit the ball with a combination of topspin and depth.
Backhand: The backhand can be hit with one or two hands, depending on your preference. The two-handed backhand offers more control and stability, especially on a smaller court. Use the same principles as the forehand, aiming for consistency and control.
Volleys
Volleying is a key element in platform tennis, as it allows you to take control of the net and put pressure on your opponents. The volley is a shot that is hit before the ball bounces, often during fast-paced exchanges at the net. When volleying, keep your paddle face angled forward and aim to place the ball deep into your opponent’s court.
Offensive Volleys: These volleys are hit with more power and are designed to force your opponents into defensive positions.
Defensive Volleys: In situations where you need to keep the ball in play, focus on controlled, soft volleys that prevent your opponents from attacking.
Overhead Smashes
The overhead smash is an aggressive shot used to end points. It is hit when the ball is lobbed high into the air by your opponents. To execute an overhead smash, position yourself under the ball and swing your paddle down sharply to hit the ball over the net and into your opponents’ court.
Placement: Instead of hitting the ball as hard as possible, aim for placement. Direct your smashes toward open areas of the court or at your opponents’ feet to make it difficult for them to return the ball.
Consistency: Overhead smashes require practice to perfect, as they are high-risk, high-reward shots. Focus on accuracy and control to avoid making unforced errors.
The Lob
The lob is a defensive shot used to push your opponents back and regain control of the point. By hitting the ball high and deep, you force your opponents to retreat to the baseline, giving you time to reposition yourself.
High Lobs: Hit the ball high over your opponents’ heads to prevent them from executing an overhead smash.
Offensive Lobs: Use a lower, more aggressive lob when your opponents are out of position, catching them off guard and potentially winning the point.
5. Advanced Strategies for Platform Tennis
Playing the Screens
One of the unique aspects of platform tennis is the use of screens. Unlike tennis, where the ball is out of play if it hits the fence, platform tennis allows the ball to be played off the screens after it bounces. Using the screens effectively is essential for success.
Defensive Use of Screens: When your opponents hit a hard shot that you can’t reach directly, let the ball bounce off the screen and use the rebound to return the shot. This gives you extra time to react and make a controlled return.
Offensive Use of Screens: You can also use the screens to create tricky angles for your opponents. For example, hitting a soft shot that bounces off the side screen at an awkward angle can disrupt your opponent’s timing and force an error.
Net Play
Controlling the net is critical in platform tennis. By positioning yourself at the net, you can apply pressure on your opponents and force them into defensive shots.
Positioning: Stay close to the net but not too close, as you need to be able to react to lobs and angled shots. A good distance is about two to three steps behind the net.
Communication: Since platform tennis is often played in doubles, communication with your partner is essential for effective net play. Decide in advance who will cover specific areas of the court and work together to maintain a strong net presence.
Court Coverage
Platform tennis is a game of quick reflexes and strategic movement. Efficient court coverage ensures that you and your partner are always in the right position to return shots and keep rallies going.
Positioning: Stay centered on the court when playing from the baseline, and be ready to move laterally to cover wide shots.
Anticipation: Anticipate your opponent’s next shot based on their positioning and body language. This will help you react faster and make better decisions during the point.
Conclusion
Platform tennis is a dynamic and enjoyable sport that offers a unique blend of tennis and paddleball elements. With its fast-paced gameplay, strategic use of screens, and social atmosphere, platform tennis is a great way to stay active and improve your racquet skills. By understanding the rules, refining your techniques, and employing smart strategies, you can become a competitive and well-rounded platform tennis player.
Whether you’re new to the sport or looking to improve your game, the key to success in platform tennis lies in practice, teamwork, and adaptability. With the right mindset and dedication, platform tennis can provide endless fun and opportunities for growth on the court.
