Up-and-down ladder matches

Setup

1. Number the tables; table 1 is the top. Two players per table, with barriers or a clear gap between tables.
2. One ball per table in play and a spare in each player's pocket, so nobody chases balls under a neighbouring table.

How it runs

1. Play one game to 11 (win by 2), serve changing every 2 points and every point from 10-all.
2. If the coach blows the whistle before a game ends, the player ahead wins; at level scores, play one deciding point.
3. Winners move up a table, losers move down. The winner on table 1 and the loser on the bottom table stay put.
4. Players shake hands and swap tables quickly; walk round the ends of tables, never across them.
5. Play 6 to 8 rounds; the final order is the ladder for the session.

Coaching points

• Between rounds, decide one plan for the next opponent: a serve to start with and a target to attack.
• Notice what worked against a player and use it if you meet them again.
• Stay calm at the start of a short game; early points count as much as late ones.
• Count the score aloud before each serve.

Common mistakes

• Losing track of who serves, especially after 10-all.
• Playing every point the same way regardless of the opponent.
• Wandering between tables and stepping into a neighbouring rally.