Adapted Padel Net Team vs. Baseline Team

A fixed-role adapted padel game: one pair defends the net with volleys while the other plays from the back, trying to take the net away with lobs and low balls at their feet. Students work on volleys, lobs, and reading which team controls the point.

How to play

1. Use cones to mark a line 10 feet from the net: the net team starts in front of it and the baseline team behind its back line.
2. The baseline team starts each rally with a groundstroke; the net team may only volley or hit a bandeja.
3. If the baseline team wins three points in a row, it takes the net and the roles switch.
4. Each point won by the net team is worth 1; each point won from the back is worth 2 because it's harder.
5. Play 5-minute blocks, then switch opponents; play four blocks in total.

Rules

• The net team may not retreat past the cone line except to chase a lob.
• Partners move together, as if tied by a rope.
• For safety, nobody swings when the partner is within arm's reach.

Variations

Adaptations

• Limited mobility: always plays on the net team, in a narrower zone.
• Students with autism: give them the role sequence and switch point in writing ahead of time.
• Lower fitness: 4-minute blocks with 1 minute of rest.

Learning goals

• Defend the net position with volleys and bandejas.
• Use lobs and low balls to win back the net.
• Move as a unit with the partner during the point.

Equipment for a class of 25

• padel paddles: 24
• tennis balls: 18
• portable nets: 6
• cones: 24

Teacher tip

Insist that partners move together: if one moves up and the other stays back, a gap opens in the middle. Keep courts at least 10 feet apart.

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