Improve from 3.5 to 4.0: Technique & Strategy Advice to Level Up Your Game

Today we discuss the framework a 3.5 player can use to improve their game and become a 4.0 player. Still, the principles in this episode apply to anyone looking to improve their level . Demi Schuurs and Desirae Krawczyk discuss serve and net strategy before a point at the 2022 Indian Wells Masters. Note: 3.5 & 4.0 are level-based ratings created by the United States Tennis Association. USTA describes a 3.5 player as: “This player has achieved stroke dependability with directional control on moderate shots, but still lacks depth, variety and the ability to alter the distance of shots. The effective use of lobs, overheads, approach shots, and volleys is limited. This player is more comfortable at the net, has improved court awareness, and is developing teamwork in doubles.” They describe a 4.0 player as: “This player has dependable strokes with directional control and the ability to alter depth of shots on both forehand and backhand sides during moderately paced play. This player also has the ability to use lobs, overheads, approach shots, and volleys with success. This player occasionally forces errors when serving. Points may be lost due to impatience. Teamwork in doubles is evident.” I have opinions on the differences based on my experience watching and playing at the 4.5 and 5.0 levels over the last 5+ years around the USTA Texas Section. The framework I go over in this episode comes from experience and learning from some of the best coaches and players in the world. See the shownotes for this episode here: https://www.thetennistribe.com/improve-from-35-to-40-podcast/ **Doubles Strategy Course** This video course will teach you the best doubles tactics for serving, returning, rallying, and approaching so that you’ll have a winning plan for every point. 25 Winning Doubles Tactics Video Course: https://the-tennis-tribe.teachable.com/p/25-winning-doubles-tactics **Doubles Ebooks** These guides offer proven advice to improve your doubles strategy. 25 Winning Doubles Tactics: https://www.thetennistribe.com/25-winning-doubles-tactics/ Return Strategy for Doubles: https://www.thetennistribe.com/return-strategy-for-doubles-ebook/ Serve Strategy for Doubles: https://www.thetennistribe.com/serve-strategy-for-doubles-ebook/ Net Play Strategy for Doubles: ----- **Join the #1 Doubles Strategy Newsletter for Club Tennis Players** New doubles strategy lessons weekly straight to your inbox **Become a Tennis Tribe Member** Tennis Tribe Members get access to premium video lessons, a monthly member-only webinar, doubles strategy Ebooks & Courses, exclusive discounts on tennis gear, and more. Learn More & Sign Up Here **Other Free Doubles Content** Serve Strategy Cheatsheet Return Strategy Cheatsheet Serve Strategy 101 - Video Course