Is the I-Formation killing your legs? In this strategy session, doubles expert Will Boucek explains why traditional pro-level tactics might be hurting your senior game—and what you should do instead.

We break down the Australian Formation: why it's the perfect alternative to the I-Formation, how it forces opponents to change their returns without forcing you to sprint, and exactly when to deploy it to disrupt the other team's rhythm.

Will Boucek is the founder of Tennis Tribe (launched in 2016) and host of the Doubles Only Podcast. With over 20 years of experience as a player, coach, and analyst, Will has worked directly with top-10 ATP & WTA teams to refine their doubles strategy.

Contact Will Boucek:

email: Will@thetennistribe.com

Doubles Only Podcast: https://thetennistribe.com/podcast/

The Tennis Tribe Website: https://thetennistribe.com/

How to Win at 40+ Doubles Cheat Sheet: https://thetennistribe.com/40-cheatsheet/

Chapter Timeline with Takeaways

00:00 - Intro: The Problem with Pro Strategies

· Takeaway: What works for Nadal doesn't work for senior club players. We need tactics for our reality.

02:15 - I-Formation vs. Australian: What’s the Difference?

· Takeaway: The I-Formation requires explosive movement and crouching (hard on knees). The Australian formation places is much easier on the body.

06:40 - Why the "I-Formation" Fails for Seniors

· Takeaway: It leaves too much court open if you aren't fast enough to cover the "pop-up." It relies on speed you might no longer have.

10:30 - The "Australian" Advantage (Low Risk, High Reward)

· Takeaway: By standing in the middle/cross-court, you force the returner to hit down the line (a harder shot) without needing to sprint yourself.

15:45 - How to Signaling Your Partner (Without Getting Confused)

· Takeaway: Keep it simple. Hand signals should indicate where the server is serving and where the net player is moving.

21:20 - Countering the Lob

· Takeaway: Seniors fear the lob. In Australian formation, you are already slightly further back, making the overhead smash easier to reach than from a tight net position.

26:10 - Final Verdict: When to Switch Formations

· Takeaway: Don't do it every point. Use it on "big points" (30-30, Deuce) to disrupt the returner's rhythm.

About Senior Tennis Unpacked
Senior Tennis Unpacked brings you four ways to stay sharp and inspired on court:

· Changeover Blog - weekly articles with insights, stories, and strategies for senior players

· Insider’s Playbook - expert interview series with coaches, champions, and performance pros

· Gold Ball Tennis – Senior tennis tips and occasional stories from my personal journey chasing national titles.

Explore it all at https://SeniorTennisUnpacked.com