Return depth observation round

Purpose & setup

Separate return depth from point-winning with a dedicated observer and equal role turns.

A serves behind the near baseline, B receives behind the far diagonal baseline and C observes safely outside the near sideline near the service line. T is the near backcourt behind that service line.

How to play

1. A serves with two attempts. B returns a legal serve after one bounce, aiming beyond the near service line.
2. End on the return’s first bounce. C calls only “deep”, “short” or “out”, using the visible lines, then reports B’s running total.
3. Alternate deuce/ad sides for six attempts. A double fault counts as an attempt with no return score.
4. Rotate A → B, B → C, C → A. Complete the dead-ball change before feeding and finish the current attempt at time.

Scoring or success

B earns one for an in-court return and another if it lands in T. C reports the two components separately out of six; the serve is not independently verified.

Rotation & roles

Six attempts per role. The observer rests from hitting and never retrieves until the ball is dead.

Mixed levels

Adjust serving pace to the receiver; the observer gives factual depth feedback rather than coaching claims.

Safety & spacing

C stands beyond the doubles sideline and outside the return path, with room to retreat. Stop if the observer’s position obstructs play.