Why Use a Third-Shot Drop?

Robert Elliott
Master the third-shot drop to control the pace of the game, neutralize aggressive opponents, and set up winning shots. Learn how this strategic play can give you the upper hand in pickleball by forcing your opponents into defensive positions.

How to Execute a Third-Shot Drop

Robert Elliott

How to Execute a Third-Shot Drop 1. Paddle Position Keep your paddle face slightly open: The paddle should be angled slightly upward to help lift the ball over the net without hitting it too hard....

Dinking Strategies

Robert Elliott
utlasting your opponents in net exchanges. Focus on placing your dinks low and soft into your opponent’s kitchen to force them to hit up, creating opportunities for attack. Mix up your placement by targeting different spots on the court, including cross-court and straight dinks, to keep your opponents moving. Patience and consistency are key in dinking rallies, setting up opportunities to switch from defense to offense.

What is Spin

Robert Elliott
Spin in pickleball refers to the rotation of the ball as it travels through the air, affecting its bounce and trajectory. By adding topspin, backspin, or sidespin, players can make the ball curve or dip, making it more challenging for opponents to return and adding a strategic element to the game.

Common Mistakes in Third-Shot Drops

Robert Elliott
Improve your pickleball game by avoiding these common third-shot drop mistakes. Learn the techniques to perfect your shot placement, timing, and control to stay competitive on the court.

Groundstrokes. What, When, Why and How.

Robert Elliott
A groundstroke in pickleball is a shot hit after the ball bounces on your side of the court, typically from the baseline or midcourt. Use a groundstroke when you’re returning a deep serve or a shot that forces you back from the net. Groundstrokes are important for maintaining control of rallies, positioning yourself for the next shot, and applying pressure from the baseline. To execute a groundstroke, focus on foot positioning, swing through the ball with a low-to-high motion, and aim for deep placement to keep your opponent on the defensive.