Dynamic Triples uses the doubles court and follows the rules of tennis outlined in The Code, except as game play differs as described below.
Positions
Each team consists of 3 players: one positioned at the net and two players on the baseline — one on the deuce side, one on the ad side.
- The net player covers the area between the service line and the net, and may not travel behind the service line to hit a ball.
- The baseline players cover the backcourt and may not travel in front of the service line to hit a ball. Baseline players may hit a ball that bounces in front of the service line as long as they make contact with the ball after it has traveled beyond the service line.
Scoring
A match consists of the best 2 out of 3 games. A team wins a game by being first to win 11 points by a margin of 2. If you are tied at 10-10 play continues until a team wins by 2 points. An overall winner of the match is determined by number of games won. A team may win 2-0 or 2-1.
Sides and Serving
Before beginning play, teams spin to determine sides and first service. The team that serves first will serve the first 6 points, and then the opposing team will serve the next 6 points. Play continues in this manner, with teams switching serving after every 6 points. Teams do not change ends until the game is complete.
Starting A Point / Poaching Rules
A game starts when the serving team serves the first point from the deuce side. No poaching is allowed on the serve. The return must bounce before the serving team can hit it.
After the first point, all players on both sides rotate one position clockwise. The serving team serves the second point from the ad side. After the second point, all players rotate one position clockwise. The serving team serves the third point from the deuce side. Play continues in this manner throughout the game.
When to Change Ends
After the first game is complete, teams change ends, and the team that received/returned first in the first game serves first in the second game. Again, teams switch serving after every 6 points.
Completing the Match
After the second game is complete, if a third game is required, teams change ends, and the team that received first in the second game will serve first in the third game.