COVID – Sarasota Pickleball Organization, LLC

What did I just read? There is such a thing called the COVID serve??? Okay, first there was the standard underhand serve which pickleball players used since the game was invented. Then in 2021, the provisional DROP SERVE was introduced, but not even on the first of the year, but on January 21. So there was a little bit of controversy that some players were using it before the 21st, and other people were saying, “No, not until the 21st.” Any who, the drop serve is being used by a small percentage of players. Most seasoned players can get a more aggressive serve in using the standard serve. I must admit, I still have to correct players who BOUNCE the ball rather than dropping for the drop serve.

So, how do I know there is a 3rd style of serve? I just received an email from the US Pickleball Open where I will be participating in next week. And here it is:

(What??? No let serves for pros???)

And here is a video of Zane demonstrating the COVID serve around in the middle of the video. I also have heard it called the chainsaw serve. But I see that serve will NOT be allowed in the pro division.

If you are confused about the drop serve, here is a video I made back in January.

So, there you have it. The COVID serve. Not officially in the rule book that I can see but some of the PROS were using it. Well, you learn something new every day. What do you think of the COVID serve?

Thanks for reading,

Pickleball Terry
Terry Ryan
AKA Pickleball Terry or Coach Terry
PPR Certified Coach
USA Pickleball Ambassador

Everyday, I am thankful I can still play pickleball.

Someone said, “If you watched Pickleball Terry you wouldn’t know there was COVID.” It’s true. If you saw my calendar, you would see that I play outside and inside with a lot of different people. So far, so good. (Knock on wood.) But I am certainly not encouraging you to take risks. If you feel the least bit uncomfortable with the situation, please listen to your conscience and don’t play, especially if you have underlining health conditions.

Pickleball Terry at RL Taylor — RL Taylor

Some people are shocked when they see me in pictures with other players close together, and we are not wearing masks. I know. Believe me, I know. If I contract COVID I give you permission to say, “I told you so.”

The indoor pickleball facilities are doing their best to keep things safe. They are limiting the number of players, and disinfectant is easily accessible The staff does their part in sanitizing areas after/between pickleball times.

Remember: You must preregister to play inside at a county facility. No preregistering for the Ys, Church of the Palms, RL Taylor Community Center (except for the beginner’s class-limited to 8.)

Masks are mandatory to enter a building but not while you are playing. I want everyone to realize this before your travel to an indoor facility or outdoor court to play and find out that not everyone wears a mask while playing. Based on this understanding, you should make an informed decision. Are you comfortable playing inside or outside if everyone is not wearing a mask?

Some people feel more secure playing outside with a better air flow but again, not everyone wears a mask. They do try to social distance between games, and touching someone else’s paddle is considered taboo. Also standing closer than 6 feet is not good. I have to admit, that sometimes I forget and I come too close when I’m talking with someone. They gently remind me to “step back.”

<br /> ( Currently, my favorite paddle. Gearbox GX6)

Remember, if you are not feeling well, please do not come to the courts. And being tested for COVID is as easy as standing in line at RL Taylor for 30 mins. No cost. Testing also available at the old dog track on 5400 Bradenton Rd, Sarasota. When in doubt, get tested. (I’ve done it and it’s painless.)

What to bring with you for playing pickleball: