The Bump Update Thread

[Cindysphinx]

OK, people who got bumped in 2007. How is it going so far?

I have to say, I'm relieved that 3.5 isn't as bad as I thought it would be. So far, I've only come across one 3.5 woman who totally had her way with me, and one who was clearly better but who we beat anyway. The others have been about where I am or lower. I've won half of my matches so far this year. 2-1 in ladies 3.5, 3-1 in ladies 6.5 combo, 0-2 in 7.0 mixed.

The biggest problem is I can't hang around waiting for my partner to put me on his shoulders and carry me around in mixed. I'm having a lot of trouble finding the balance between getting into the points and making a contribution versus doing Stoopid Stuff that loses us points. And having sub-standard groundstrokes is a real downer in mixed.

The other thing that is a major adjustment is that, being the 3.5 player in 6.5 combo, it's hard to make something happen without botching things. My 3.0 partners sometimes defer too much. The same woman who can't do a thing as my partner in 6.5 combo will win a 3.0 ladies match handily, so you know she can play. I'm expected to serve first. I'm expected to run down lobs. I'm expected to take the center ball. If I touch the ball at net, I simply must put it away every time. Whew.

On balance, I'm thinking this first year at 3.5 will be fun.

 

[fe6250]

Cindy,

Glad you are having success - that is great to hear. I can't say I'm surprised given the time and energy you seem to put into your game!

I got bumped too and things have gone well for me but there are some things I think can really help. Playing people better than you will expose your weaknesses which can give you things to work on to improve your game. Playing up a level gives you this opportunity and helps prepare you for the bump. I would only avoid this if you don't want to get bumped and I'm pretty sure that is not the case for you.

When you play combo or are the strongest player, try to be patient too. Hitting winners is great if you have the opportunity, but hitting a low vollie at the net player or otherwise placing a shot well can help set up a winner later. Also, this is a chance for your 3.0 player to step up so try and be a coach and encourager if you can.

I also try and remember to keep playing even when I think the point should be over and keep closing the net. Serves and return of serves get tougher too at each level so continued work here pays off big.

I'm sure there are more good ideas out there.

 

[volleyman]

And having sub-standard groundstrokes is a real downer in mixed.

Attack the net. Relentlessly. If you have a decent lob, throw one up over the woman's head and attack the net. If you get stuck in a baseline rally with the woman, hit a high loopy cross-court shot and attack the net.

It is a lot easier in doubles to play to your strengths than it is in singles. Talk with your partner about where your strengths are and come up with a plan to maximize them.

 

[Applesauceman]

Bumped for Early-Start 2008 (which is actually in October 2007) from 3.0 to 3.5. Record as of 2/20...7-2. No real problem with my bump, I actually played 3.5 in 2006 and 2007, in addition to 3.0.

 

[AP328]

Bumped, appealed now losing!?!?!?

OK, people who got bumped in 2007. How is it going so far?

I have to say, I'm relieved that 3.5 isn't as bad as I thought it would be. So far, I've only come across one 3.5 woman who totally had her way with me, and one who was clearly better but who we beat anyway. The others have been about where I am or lower. I've won half of my matches so far this year. 2-1 in ladies 3.5, 3-1 in ladies 6.5 combo, 0-2 in 7.0 mixed.

The biggest problem is I can't hang around waiting for my partner to put me on his shoulders and carry me around in mixed. I'm having a lot of trouble finding the balance between getting into the points and making a contribution versus doing Stoopid Stuff that loses us points. And having sub-standard groundstrokes is a real downer in mixed.

The other thing that is a major adjustment is that, being the 3.5 player in 6.5 combo, it's hard to make something happen without botching things. My 3.0 partners sometimes defer too much. The same woman who can't do a thing as my partner in 6.5 combo will win a 3.0 ladies match handily, so you know she can play. I'm expected to serve first. I'm expected to run down lobs. I'm expected to take the center ball. If I touch the ball at net, I simply must put it away every time. Whew.

On balance, I'm thinking this first year at 3.5 will be fun.

Cindy,

Glad to hear you are doing well. I'm sure you will continue improving and do well at 3.5.

I have a different problem. I got bumped, but appealed because I was in range and all the 3.5 teams were full. Since then, I am 1-4 in league play.
Maybe it's just ironic timing.

3 of 5 matches went three sets and two losses were in singles (1st singles matches in a year).

Our team has also experienced some close losses since the New Year. Any words of encouragement?

Thanks,
AP

 

[Cindysphinx]

So you're playing down at the level you were last year?

I think I lost you. . . .

Ciney -- now 0-4 in mixed and getting discouraged

 

[kevhen]

Mixed is a different beast, so don't worry about it. Keep working at it and eventually you will start to figure out what you need to do or what you need to work on. Cover you alley, try to build a wall and let your partner take balls down the middle. Have fun and communicate with your partner and listen to what he is trying to say. Don't get too stressed when things don't go well.