Quick answer
The serve must bounce before the receiver hits it, and the return must bounce before the serving team hits it. After these two required bounces, volleys are allowed outside the kitchen.
Two bounces across two sides
The name can mislead a new player into waiting for two bounces on their own side. In standard play, there is one required bounce for the serve on the receiving side, then one for the return on the serving side.
Once that opening pattern is complete, either team can hit a volley from a legal position or choose a groundstroke after one bounce. The kitchen rule continues to apply.
Why serving players should stay back initially
If the serving team rushes to the net immediately, a deep return may land behind them. They still have to let it bounce, so early forward movement makes the third shot harder.
Begin behind or near the baseline with enough room for the return. Move forward based on the quality of the next shot, not just because you have finished serving.
Practise the opening without keeping score
Call out serve, bounce, return, bounce, next shot during a slow rally. Reset after that third shot. Switch server and receiver roles so every player learns both waiting periods.
If someone volleys the return, stop and replay the sequence as a drill. During an actual scored game, use the agreed rules for faults rather than silently granting a practice replay.
Do not confuse this with a double bounce
A double bounce on one side before a player returns the ball is a different issue. Standard play does not allow that. Certain adaptive and wheelchair formats have different allowances; check those specific rules.
For a first doubles game, teach this opening alongside the diagonal serve and kitchen restriction. It gives the group enough structure to start meaningful rallies without trying to learn every exception in one explanation.
Common questions
Can I volley the return of serve?
No. The serving team must let the return bounce before hitting it.
Does every shot have to bounce?
No. After the opening two required bounces, legal volleys are permitted.
References and further reading
Rules guides refer to standard play. Check the current official rules and your event’s format for competition or adaptive play.
READY TO PLAY?
Put the guide into practice.
Once the basics make sense, the fastest way to learn is to play. If PaddleKraft is within reach, you can enquire about a court or beginner guidance at our Moshi club.
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