If you’ve ever watched advanced pickleball doubles, you’ve probably noticed teams starting points bunched up on one side of the court—almost like they forgot where they’re supposed to stand. That’s not confusion—it’s stacking, and it’s a powerful strategy to keep both players in their strongest positions.
What Is Stacking?
Stacking is when doubles partners position themselves on the same side of the court before or right after the serveso they can quickly switch to their preferred sides as the rally begins.
Instead of standing in the “traditional” left-right formation, players stack to:
- Keep a forehand or backhand in the middle for stronger shots.
- Put the faster or more aggressive player at the net more often.
- Protect a weaker side from being targeted.
Why Stack?
- Maximize Strengths — If your forehand is lethal from the right side, stacking keeps you there more often.
- Hide Weaknesses — If your partner’s backhand return is shaky, stacking can minimize exposure.
- Control the Middle — The middle is prime territory—stacking puts your stronger shot there.
How Stacking Works in Practice
Serving Team
- Both players start on the same side.
- Server serves diagonally as usual.
- As soon as the ball is hit, the server’s partner slides into their “real” preferred spot.
- The server moves to cover the other side after following through.
Receiving Team
- Receiver starts in correct position to take the serve.
- Partner stands on the same side to be ready to switch immediately after the return.
- Both players slide into preferred sides as they move forward to the NVZ.
Key Stacking Tips From a Coach
- Footwork First — Smooth, quick movement after the serve or return is crucial to avoid leaving the court open.
- Signal the Switch — Use hand signals behind your back so your partner knows if you’ll switch or stay.
- Practice in Drills — Stacking under pressure feels different—work on it in high-speed rally drills.
- Don’t Over-Stack — If you’re still learning, stack only on serve or return first before trying it on every point.
Quick Drill to Master Stacking
“Serve & Switch” Drill
- Serve from stacked position.
- Immediately move into preferred sides.
- Have your partner feed a shot to test positioning.
- Repeat 10–15 times per side.
Bottom Line:
Stacking in doubles pickleball isn’t just for pros—it’s for any team that wants to play smarter, not harder. If you and your partner know your strengths, communicate clearly, and move efficiently, stacking can turn your court positioning into a secret weapon.
