What is Stacking in Pickleball?

Last updated on February 6th, 2023 at 01:51 pm

Stacking in pickleball doubles is when both players line up on the same side of the court before the serve. Following the return of serve, the players move to their preferred side of the court. Knowing how to stack in pickleball on the serve and return can make a difference in how the competition plays out.

So, what are the pickleball stacking rules? How do you stack on the serve or the return? Is stacking good in pickleball, and when is it a good or bad idea to stack in a pickleball game?

Here is the complete breakdown of what stacking is in pickleball!

Table of Contents

What are the Pickleball Stacking Rules?

Technically, there are no current rules which specify where players may stand, but there are rules about the correct server position and the return of the serving player. The first server’s correct position means neither foot can be inside or on the lines when they serve the ball. The ball has to bounce on the third shot. This must also take place before it is returned from the serve. Beyond that, players may move to their preferred position of play, whether it is the right side of the court or the left side of the court.

Pickleball stacking is essential, particularly in doubles teams consisting of right-handed and lefty players. This team configuration allows both players to utilize their pickleball paddles to cover the middle of the court with a forehand swing. The right side of the center line is known as the deuce side, and the left side is called the ad side. During this point, players will often stick to their starting side.

Stacking means that both players on the serving team are positioned either on the deuce side or the ad side until the serve and return of serve are complete. Once the players move to their desired side, they may return to traditional positioning to play pickleball.

How to Stack on the Pickleball Serve?

The position of each player in a double pickleball game is essential. The serving player must stand between the imaginary center and sideline and behind the baseline when the paddle contacts the ball during the serve. The partner of the server typically stands behind the baseline unless the server consistently serves short.

How to Stack on the Return?

On the return of serve, the stacking position is similar. However, the player is not responsible for returning the serve stands near the kitchen line, out of bounds. The kitchen line is also known as the pickleball court’s non-volley zone (NVZ). It extends seven feet from each side of the net and from sideline to sideline.

Is Stacking Good in Pickleball?

Stacking in pickleball has many benefits and can be used by players at all competency levels. Both players must understand the concept and be comfortable using it. One benefit of stacking is taking advantage of each player’s strengths. When stacking is appropriately implemented, the receiving team is hitting toward two players in a strong forehand position, even when they are shooting down the middle.

Also, when you use stacking, communication is going to be crucial. It is best to go over some plans and strategize before the game starts to know what you are both doing. Communicating before, during, and after a play in pickleball stacking will lead to better outcomes in the future.

When is it a Good Idea to Stack in a Pickleball Game?

The purpose of stacking is to take advantage of players’ strengths. For instance, a player with a dominant forehand may be beneficial in a position where their forehand is always adjacent to the centerline. This allows the player to take forehand to poach opportunities. Stacking with a left-handed and righty player allows both pickleball players to keep their forehands in the middle of the court.

Stacking can help to hide a player’s weakness, such as a player whose backhand is weak. An effective stacking strategy helps to take advantage of a particular player’s or the team’s mobility. A stacking strategy, if used effectively, can keep the opposing players off-balance. The game requires some thought regardless of whether stacking is used or not.

When is it a Bad Idea to Stack in a Pickleball Game?

Stacking in the game can enhance the player’s strengths, mainly if the team members work well together. However, the technique can be a good idea if done correctly, and the players need to be in the correct position during a pickleball game. Players who are not comfortable playing strategically can find the opponents finding the weak points and take advantage of them. If the opposing team can break the stack, it could result in losing points.

Another bad idea via stacking is playing with someone uncomfortable with this approach. If they are not comfortable with stacking during a game, it could lead to more confusion on the court and, thus, more points for the opponent.

Conclusion: What Does Stacking Mean in Pickleball?

Stacking in pickleball is a technique that allows the stacking team players to take advantage of their strengths and minimize their weaknesses. When a team stacks for every point, regardless of whether they’re serving or returning, it is called full stacking. When the team stacks only for the serve, it is called a half stack.

Some of the benefits of a fully implemented pickleball strategy include allowing a team consisting of a right-handed and a left-handed teammate to use their forehand effectively along the center line. Mobility is another characteristic that you can enhance through the use of stacking.

A team that employs stacking effectively, whether partial stacking or full stacking, must be able to work together closely to avoid getting their ideal position confused with the result of losing points.