By Chris Wolfe, Director of Pickleball Operations at Pickle and Social
You have more time than you think
I have noticed some newer pickleball players tend to rush at the last moment. Instead of preparing for the shot, they hurry their swing just to make contact. Here’s a tip: once you know where the ball is heading, aim to get there before it does. Moving quickly to the ball’s projected location allows you to slow down, giving you ample time to prepare for a precise shot. In contrast, if you are slow to reach the ball, you will have to rush your swing. A hurried swing often makes it difficult to achieve the correct contact point.
Mastering the technique of beating the ball to its bounce is no small feat — it requires dedicated practice. But developing this skill is crucial if you want to elevate your game. Next time you watch a professional match, observe how the players anticipate the ball’s path and position themselves well in advance. This movement gives them the time to prepare and hit the ball out in front, directing it precisely where they want it to go. Remember, you should be dictating the ball’s path, not the other way around!
Learn the return
What happens when you hit into the net or hit your return of serve out of bounds? Yes, you lose a point. What happens when you hit a short return of serve that bounces a little high? Yes, the serving team can tee off at you. If you are playing with traditional scoring, the return may be one of the most important shots in the game. What happens when you hit a return that is deep and not too hard? Well, you have time to get to the non-volley zone (NVZ) and prepare for your opponent’s answer.
Here is a good drill to practice your return while your friend works on their serve. Put two pieces of painter’s tape or targets between the NVZ and the baseline on both sides of the court, maybe 5-6 feet from the baseline. Take turns trying to serve past the target. The other player should try to return past the target as well. Give yourself a point each time you are successful.
Chris has been a cornerstone of the Atlanta pickleball community since 2016, organizing tournaments, running events, and teaching thousands of people the joy of the game. As the co-owner of the PPA Atlanta Open and Director of Pickleball Operations at Pickle and Social, Chris brings expertise and passion to every aspect of the sport.
