The Third Shot Drop in Pickleball

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Mastering the Third Shot Drop in Pickleball: What It Is, How to Do It, and Why It Matters by Pickleball Terry

If you’re looking to level up your pickleball game, one shot you must understand and practice is the third shot drop. It’s a staple of smart, strategic play—especially in doubles—and often separates casual players from those with a more competitive edge.

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What is the Third Shot Drop?

The third shot drop is exactly what it sounds like: a soft, arcing shot played on the third shot of a rally. Here’s the typical sequence: (Remember: The serving team does the Third Shot Drop.)

Serve (1st shot)
Return of serve (2nd shot)
Third shot drop

After you serve and your opponent returns the ball, you (or your partner) play the third shot. The goal is to gently drop the ball over the net into the opposing team’s non-volley zone (also called the “kitchen”), where it ideally lands softly and is difficult to attack. Sounds easy but it’s not. It’s much easier to drive the ball than to execute a Third Shot Drop. A little too high and you have just given your opponents an easy put-away. Or too soft and whoops! It lands on your side of the net. Plus it takes more brain energy to remember to use this shot successfully. Yes, it’s much easier to just slam the ball back and hope for the best. As you improve and play more advanced players, the Third Shot Drop becomes strategic to the game. You will not be able to drive a ball through advanced players who are stationed at the NVZ (non-volley zone). If you want to move up, it’s going to take more effort in the form of perfecting Third Shot Drop.

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I tell my students that they have to practice the shot a thousand times ( A little dramatic but practice, practice, practice.) before they try to bring it to their game. If they don’t, too many errors and they have a better chance of a drive. But if they want to move up in level, they have to know this shot and be able to execute it.

Why is It So Important?

Pickleball is a game of positioning, and the most advantageous position is at the non-volley zone (NVZ). After serving, however, the serving team is at a disadvantage because they must stay back for the return. A well-executed third-shot drop allows the serving team time to advance to the NVZ safely.

If instead, you drive the ball hard on the third shot, it often results in an easy volley or put-away for your opponents. The drop shot neutralizes the return team’s advantage, forcing them to play a soft shot from below net level, giving you time to move up.

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How to Execute a Third Shot Drop

Here’s a breakdown of the mechanics:

Grip and Stance: Use a continental grip for better touch. Stay low with knees bent, paddle out front, and eyes on the ball.

Contact Point: Hit the ball after it bounces, ideally when it’s on the rise. Make contact in front of your body.

Soft Touch: Think of it like tossing an egg—you want to cradle the ball with a gentle lift, not a swat. The paddle motion is more of a slow upward arc.

Target Area: Aim to land the ball just over the net and into the kitchen. It should bounce low, making it hard for your opponents to attack.

Consistency: This shot takes time to master. Focus on control, not power. Drilling this repeatedly is key.

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When to Use It

While the third shot drop is most common after a return of serve, you can also use drop shots later in the rally when you’re pushed to the baseline. It’s especially effective against aggressive players who hug the net and are looking for opportunities to smash.

Final Thoughts

The third shot drop isn’t flashy, but it’s fundamental. By giving your team time to move up and take control of the net, you turn defense into offense. It requires patience, finesse, and practice—but once mastered, it becomes a game-changer.

So the next time you step on the court, don’t just drive the ball—drop it with intention. Your future self (and your partner) will thank you.

Thank you for reading,
Pickleball Terry
SarasotaPickleball.com

April 10, 2025April 10, 2025

The Difference in Balls in Pickleball

Ball wars do happen. What do I mean by “ball wars”? These are disagreements that occur on pickleball courts over the type of balls being used. Some players prefer the Franklin ball, while others favor the Dura 40. Additionally, some players prefer the orange ball, while others insist on using only the green one. I’m referring specifically to outdoor balls, which are harder and have 40 small holes. In contrast, indoor balls have 26 holes, are softer, and are designed for gym floors, making them slower than outdoor balls. I’ve seen players switch balls mid-game, provoking their opponents when they discover that the ball they wanted to use is missing.

Pickleball may be simple to learn, but choosing the right equipment can make a big difference in your performance—especially when it comes to outdoor pickleballs. Unlike their indoor counterparts, outdoor balls are designed to handle wind, rougher surfaces, and the elements. But not all outdoor balls are created equal.

Let’s dive into the different types of outdoor pickleballs, what sets them apart, and how to choose the right one for your game.

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Key Features of Outdoor Pickleballs

Outdoor pickleballs:

Have smaller, more numerous holes than indoor balls (usually 40 holes).
Are heavier and harder to cut through wind resistance.
Bounce lower and travel faster than indoor balls.
Tend to wear out faster due to the rougher court surfaces and impact.

With that in mind, here are the most popular types of outdoor pickleballs and what makes each one unique.

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1. Dura Fast 40

Best for: Tournament play and experienced players

Feel: Hard and fast, offering consistent bounce and true flight.
Durability: Known to crack sooner than others, but widely used in official tournaments.
Playability: Favored by pros for its speed and precision.

Fun fact: The Dura 40 is the official ball of many major tournaments, including the USA Pickleball National Championships.

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2. Franklin X-40

Best for: All-around players and clubs

Feel: Slightly softer than the Dura, but still fast and responsive.
Durability: More durable than the Dura, especially in hot weather.
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3. Onix Fuse G2

Best for: Beginners and intermediate players

Feel: Softer and quieter with a slightly higher bounce.
Durability: Highly durable and less prone to cracking.
Playability: Easier to control, making it great for learning and casual play.

The Fuse G2 is a comfortable option for players transitioning from indoor to outdoor play.

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4. CORE Outdoor Pickleballs

Best for: Durability and value

Feel: Similar to Franklin, but with a slightly firmer touch.
Durability: Designed to withstand high impact and rough surfaces.
Playability: Consistent bounce and good visibility, especially in yellow or neon.

CORE balls are growing in popularity due to their balance between pro-level performance and long-lasting play.

Choosing the Right Outdoor Pickleball

When selecting a ball, consider:

Your skill level: Beginners may prefer softer, slower balls for easier control.
Playing conditions: Harder balls perform better in windy conditions.
Frequency of play: If you play often, look for a ball with a reputation for durability.
Tournament rules: If you’re playing competitively, check which balls are USAPA-approved.

The best outdoor pickleball for you depends on your goals and playing environment. Whether you’re a weekend warrior or aiming for tournament gold, experimenting with a few types is the best way to find your match. Remember—your paddle and your strategy matter, but so does your ball.

🇺🇸 Made in USA Pickleball Gear

Support American-made quality with this curated gear guide

Comparison Chart

Brand	Product Type	Made in USA?	Notes
Selkirk Sport	Paddles	✅ Yes	Premium paddles made in Idaho. Trusted by pros.
Paddletek	Paddles	✅ Yes	Made in Michigan. Great for control and feel.
Engage	Paddles	✅ Yes	Designed and produced in Florida.
GAMMA Sports	Paddles	✅ Mostly	Innovative tech; made in Pittsburgh.
Franklin	Balls	❌ No	Manufactured in China.
Dura	Balls	❌ No	Formerly USA-made, now produced in China.
Onix	Balls & Paddles	❌ No	Designed in the US, made overseas.
American Giant	Apparel	✅ Yes	Durable athleticwear, made entirely in the USA.
Locale Pickleball Co.	Apparel	✅ Some items	Small brand. Check tags for origin.

And then there are indoor balls

🏠 What Makes Indoor Pickleballs Different?

Indoor pickleballs are built specifically for smoother, hard court surfaces with no wind or weather interference. Here’s how they stand out:

Key Features:

Fewer holes: Usually 26 larger holes (vs. 40 smaller ones in outdoor balls)
Softer plastic: Makes for slower play and better control
Quieter: Less noise during rallies—great for gyms and shared spaces
Higher bounce: Helps compensate for slicker surfaces

🔵 Top Indoor Pickleballs (and How They Compare)

1. Jugs Indoor Pickleballs

Feel: Soft and lightweight
Bounce: Higher than most—great for slower indoor courts
Durability: Very durable; holds up well on hardwood and tile floors
Best for: Beginners, casual play, and schools

📝 Note: Jugs are not USAPA approved for tournament play—but they’re a fan favorite for recreational use.

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2. Onix Fuse Indoor Pickleballs

Feel: Slightly firmer than Jugs
Bounce: Consistent with a smooth feel
Durability: Excellent; designed for extended indoor use
Best for: Competitive recreational players, clubs, and training

📝 The Onix Fuse Indoor ball is USAPA-approved, which makes it a solid pick for league play.

3. Franklin X-26 Indoor Pickleballs

Feel: Very balanced—between soft and firm
Bounce: Consistent, slightly lower than Jugs
Durability: Good; may crack over time with heavy use
Best for: Players who like a bit more control and quieter hits

📝 Great for controlled rallies and technical play indoors.

4. CORE Indoor Pickleballs

Feel: Firm and responsive
Bounce: Consistent and slightly livelier
Durability: Designed for high-usage environments like rec centers
Best for: Players transitioning from outdoor to indoor

📝 A newer player in the market, but gaining popularity quickly.

⚖️ Indoor Ball Comparison Chart

Brand	Holes	USAPA Approved?	Bounce	Durability	Best For
Jugs	26	❌ No	High	High	Beginners, schools, rec play
Onix Fuse	26	✅ Yes	Medium	Very High	Clubs, leagues, consistent play
Franklin X-26	26	✅ Yes	Medium	Moderate	Technical/control players
CORE	26	✅ Yes	Medium-High	High	Versatile indoor players

🎯 How to Choose the Right Indoor Pickleball

New to the game? Try Jugs—they’re forgiving and fun to play with.
Want tournament-ready play? Onix Fuse or Franklin X-26 are safe bets.
Looking for all-around durability? CORE Indoor or Onix Fuse are your go-tos.

So there you go. I remember the days when we were just happy to have a jug ball, but times have changed, pickleball has advanced, and so have the players.

Keep playing pickleball.

Thanks for reading,
Terry Ryan
A.K.A. Pickleball Terry

January 26, 2025

10 Ways to being a better pickleball partner

By Pickleball Terry

10 Ways to Be the Pickleball Partner Everyone Wants

Let’s face it—pickleball is 50% skill, 50% strategy, and 100% about not driving your partner crazy. Here are ten essential ways to be a great partner:

1. Call Your Shots… Nicely

It’s a dink, not a boxing match. Instead of yelling, “I GOT IT!” like you’re trying to scare a bear, use a calm, confident tone. Also goes for “OUT!” (Yes, you can still call a ball OUT before it actually bounces out of bounds. It’s partner’s communication.)

2. Don’t Be a Court Hog

Nobody likes a partner who plays like it’s singles. If you’re sprinting across the court to steal every shot, you’re not impressing anyone. Instead, you’re just auditioning for the next season of Alone. Who wants to play with a court hog in rec play? Or somebody who acts like it’s a life and death situation if they don’t win the game. Don’t be that person. Let your partner play too even if they are way below everyone’s level on the court. EVEN if the opponents know your team’s weakest player and keep hitting to them. It’s rec play. Period!

3. Apologize Sparingly

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Missed a shot? No problem. Apologize once and move on. If you keep saying “Sorry!” after every bad hit, your partner might start wondering if they’re playing with someone on a guilt trip. And there is this saying, “There’s no sorry in pickleball.” And this one, “Pickleball means never having to say you’re sorry.” (Okay, I’ll stop now.)

4. Be the Hype Person

Cheer them on like they just hit a winner at Wimbledon, even if the ball barely cleared the net. A good “Nice shot!” can erase a whole morning of double faults. And, hey, who doesn’t love a morale boost? Leave them with a positive experience, and wanting more. Don’t forget paddle taps between shots. Bad or good. Checking with your partner for the correct score. Smiling. No eye rolling. Giving them the silent treatment. Oh my goodness! Stop being the negative Nelly on the court. It’s just pickleball!

5. Know the Rules

If you’re caught camping in the kitchen, don’t argue the call or pretend you don’t know the rule. Your partner is judging you in silence while pretending it’s fine. It’s not fine. Remember the score. Keep your head in the game. Run for a loose ball. Don’t let your partner run for everyone. Know where you are supposed to stand. Be on your toes. Don’t know all these points? Take one of Pickleball Terry’s clinics. I’ll set you straight.

6. Communicate Like a Pro

Shouting “YOURS!” doesn’t cut it if both of you are already staring at the ball like it’s a UFO. Try something clearer, like, “I’ll cover the lob, and switch!” Communication saves points and friendships. I also talk to my partner about who takes the middle (forehand) before we start the game. If the person is a lefty, are we going to stack? Plus, talk tips about the opponents. Something like Jenny never comes up to the kitchen, etc. Talking behind your paddles to each other also makes the opponents nervous.
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7. Keep the Critiques to Yourself

Unless your partner specifically asks for advice, resist the urge to channel your inner coach. Nobody wants to hear, “You know, you should try slicing your backhand more.” Instead, focus on slicing your attitude. Unsolicited advice is not always welcomed. Here’s an email I received the other day:

My 3 grandsons and myself had the unfortunate experience of encountering “Chuck” at %&(*!@ Park, who claimed to be 80 years old & proceeded to butt into our private games uninvited, to give us a lesson. He was not a teaching pro nor did he have useful advice to offer.

He did not leave. We left & reported him to the office at the community center. He wanted to argue about everything, from outdoor balls vs. indoor balls, paddles, rules, etc. Is he a known persona non grata?

Don’t be that guy.

8. Dress the Part

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Pickleball is a game of finesse, so don’t roll up looking like you just rolled out of bed. You also don’t have to have matching visors and coordinated outfits? Invest in good court shoes and decent shorts. Bring a towel if you sweat a lot.

9. Ignore the Chaos

A guy yelled at your partner because your ball rolled on his court. You body-bagged a player by accident and they told you off. Some macho player keeps slamming the ball at your partner who happens to be 80 years old. Ignore! Don’t get pulled into their drama. Don’t engage. Just ignore, or if you have to, walk away. Do not embarrass your partner by getting in to a war of words. Take the high road.
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10. Always Bring Extras

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Be the partner who shows up with extra protein bar and water, and you’ll achieve legend status. Granola bars, orange slices, maybe even a little pickle (because, you know… pickleball). Water, I always bring an extra water for someone who needs it. Need a ball? I’ll have one. Forget your paddle? I usually have five. Want to move my paddle down so your friend can play with you? No problem.

In Conclusion:

Being a great pickleball partner isn’t about having the fastest serves or the deepest volleys. It’s about teamwork, positivity, and not hogging the court like it’s a one-person show. So next time you hit the court, remember these tips and, above all, have fun. Be the sunshine on the courts!

Thanks for reading!

Pickleball Terry
picture of pickleball Terry

January 19, 2025January 19, 2025

Flick Weight: The Secret Sauce Your Paddle Needs

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How long as everybody known about flick weight and why have I just heard about it? Pickleball…I learn something new everyday.

First, a new paddle company called me from North Carolina and asked if he could send me one of their paddles to try? (Of course, I said, “sure.” This Pickleball Terry thing does come with great perks.) Then he started telling me about paddle weight, swing weight and then flick weight. Flick weight? What the heck? I let it slide. But then I’m on TikTok (bye bye TikTok) and there was a pro showing how to to apply a swing weight to your paddle. Okay, now I have to do a deep dive. Flicking is essential to a 3.5 level player and up. And here is what I found.

When someone says a paddle is “heavy,” they often mean it feels unbalanced (hello, high flick weight 🙄).
A paddle with a high swing weight doesn’t have to be slow at the kitchen line—it might actually have a low flick weight and feel zippy.

Curious? Stick around, and we’ll dive into the details.

The Pickleball “Heavy Paddle” Myth 🧐

There’s this old-school idea floating around pickleball circles:

Heavy paddles = power on drives but sloooow at the kitchen line.

Everyone says it—weekend warriors, paddle nerds, even your favorite pro.

But here’s the twist: this “wisdom” might be totally wrong.

You can absolutely have a paddle with the power of a cannon and the speed of a hummingbird. The key? Understanding flick weight.

You can absolutely have a paddle with the power of a cannon and the speed of a hummingbird.

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What the Heck Is Flick Weight? 🤔

First, let’s talk about the usual suspects:

Actual Weight (Static Weight): How much the paddle weighs, like 8.1 oz.
Swing Weight: How heavy the paddle feels when you swing it from your shoulder.
Twist Weight: How stable the paddle is on off-center hits (goodbye, wobbly mis-hits).

Now, meet the underdog: Flick Weight.

Flick weight measures how the paddle feels when you flick your wrist. It’s the secret sauce for quick reactions at the kitchen line.

High flick weight: The paddle feels sluggish and clunky.
Low flick weight: The paddle feels light and snappy.

Why Flick Weight Rules in Pickleball 👑

In pickleball, flicking your wrist is everything—think rolls, dinks, and counter-attacks. Unlike tennis, where big shoulder swings are the norm, pickleball requires speed and precision right at the net.

That’s where flick weight comes in:

A paddle with low flick weight is like a ninja—light, fast, and always ready.
A paddle with high flick weight feels like swinging a frying pan at a fruit fly.

The Balance Point Experiment 🧪

Some paddle fanatics measured 20 paddles using a Briffidi BP1 Racquet Balance Device (fancy, right?). Here’s what we found:

A paddle with a balance point at 24.1cm (6″) from the butt cap feels… balanced (duh).
Adding weight to the butt cap lowers flick weight without messing with swing weight.

Here’s how it works:

1/4 oz (7g) on the butt cap drops flick weight by 1 point.
Add 1 oz (28g), and your paddle goes from flick weight 6 (balanced) to flick weight 2 (crazy fast).

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Why “Heavy” Doesn’t Always Mean Heavy 🤯

Tested this with players ranging from 4.5 to 5.5:

They were given a 9 oz paddle (flick weight 3.2) and an 8 oz paddle (flick weight 6.8).
Every single player said the 8 oz paddle felt heavier.

Why? Balance. The 8 oz paddle had a higher flick weight, so it felt clunky despite being lighter.

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Flick Weight Made Simple Here’s an easy scale:

Flick Weight 6: Balanced.
Below 6: Head-light, faster paddle.
Above 6: Head-heavy, slower paddle.

a pickleball paddle showong the flick weight

How to Tune Your Paddle Like a Pro 🎯

Want your paddle to feel light and fast? Try this:

Add Weight to the Butt Cap:
- Start with 1/4 oz (7g). Even small changes make a big difference.
- Pro tip: Replace your grip with a Hesacore and an overgrip (like Yonex Supergrap) to lower flick weight by 2 points.
Keep Swing Weight in Check:
- High swing weight for power? ✔️
- Low flick weight for quick hands? Double ✔️.

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The Big Takeaway 🎉

Understanding flick weight lets you have your pickleball cake and eat it too:

Power for drives? Check.
Speed at the kitchen line? Also check.
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So grab your paddle, play around with weights, and get ready to dominate on the court. Happy tuning! ✨

Hope this post is entertaining and informative.

Thanks for reading,

Pickleball Terry
dinkpickleball@gmail.com

Pickleball Terry at her pickleball clinic with students in Sarasota, FL

September 26, 2024September 26, 2024

2nd Annual Sarasota Slam Tournament

ALL PROCEEDS GO TO THE SARASOTA HIGH SCHOOL ATHLETES

POSTER OF 2ND ANNUAL SARASOTA SAILORS SLAM — To register click here https://swishtournaments.com/product/2nd-annual-sarasota-sailors-slam/

Only 6 teams per division. Spots are filling quickly. Signup before they are closed. There will be a waiting list. Email dinkpickleball@gmail.com to be put on the waiting list.

We are using Swish Tournament software which means you will be able to find your opponents and court assignments on your Swish apps. You will also be able to see everyone’s score in realtime.

You do not need to have a DUPR score but you will need to signup with DUPR. When you register at Swish by clicking the link above, they will instruct you on how to validate your DUPR account. This is a sanctioned DUPR tournament. All scores will be recorded on the DUPR site.

We will have giveaways, 50/50, T-Shirts, Medals, Cash prizes, Free water and snacks, Free Kona Ice Slushies for participants, and so much more!!!

Booth rental space is $50.00 for vendors who want to sell pickleball related items.

We want to thank Archwell Health for supplying the Kona Truck.

Thank you,

Jenn Stutler and Terry Ryan

September 7, 2024September 7, 2024

Understanding Pickleball Burnout: Signs, Symptoms, and How to Deal with It by Pickleball Terry

Understanding Pickleball Burnout: Signs, Symptoms, and How to Deal with It by Pickleball Terry

It’s real and it’s happening. Pickleball burnout! Whether it’s because you’re tired of rec play that’s getting more irritating than fun, or your knees are feeling so much pain with every move, you’re just not as motivated to get on the courts as you used to be.

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Pickleball, a sport that combines elements of tennis, badminton, and table tennis, has surged in popularity due to its accessibility and fun gameplay. However, as with any sport, enthusiasts can sometimes experience burnout. Pickleball burnout can impact both casual players and competitive athletes. Understanding the signs and symptoms, and knowing how to address them, is crucial for maintaining a healthy and enjoyable relationship with the game.

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Signs of Pickleball Burnout

Decreased Motivation: If you find yourself dragging your feet to the court or lacking the enthusiasm you once had for the game, it could be a sign of burnout.
Mental Fatigue: Feeling mentally exhausted or overwhelmed by the sport, even when you’re not playing, can indicate that you need a break.
Physical Exhaustion: Persistent tiredness or muscle soreness that doesn’t seem to improve with rest might signal that you’re pushing your body too hard.
Reduced Performance: A noticeable decline in your game performance, despite practice, could be a sign that you’re overdoing it or not giving yourself adequate recovery time.
Loss of Enjoyment: If you no longer find joy in playing or feel that the game has become a chore rather than a pleasure, burnout may be the cause.

Symptoms of Pickleball Burnout

Irritability or Frustration: Becoming easily frustrated or irritable, both on and off the court, can be a symptom of burnout.
Sleep Issues: Trouble falling asleep or staying asleep can be a result of excessive stress and anxiety related to the sport.
Social Withdrawal: Avoiding social events or activities related to pickleball, including games and tournaments, might be a sign of burnout.
Physical Complaints: Chronic aches, pains, or injuries that don’t heal properly can indicate that you’re not allowing your body enough recovery time.

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How to Deal with Pickleball Burnout

Take a Break: Sometimes the best remedy is to step away from the court for a while. A short hiatus can help you recharge and regain your enthusiasm for the game.
Reevaluate Your Goals: Reflect on why you started playing pickleball in the first place. Adjusting your goals to be more aligned with your current interests and abilities can renew your passion.
Set Realistic Expectations: It’s important to set achievable goals and avoid putting excessive pressure on yourself. Celebrate small victories and progress rather than focusing solely on major accomplishments.
Mix Up Your Routine: Incorporate other physical activities or hobbies into your routine. This can prevent you from feeling monotony and can help you stay physically and mentally fresh.
Focus on Recovery: Ensure you are allowing adequate time for rest and recovery. Incorporate stretching, proper nutrition, and hydration into your routine to keep your body in good condition.
Seek Support: Talk to other players or a coach about your feelings. Sometimes, sharing your experiences and hearing others’ can provide new perspectives and solutions.
Enjoy the Game for Fun: Remind yourself why you love pickleball. Shift your focus from competition to enjoyment, and try to play just for fun rather than stressing over performance.

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By recognizing the signs and symptoms of burnout and taking proactive steps to address it, you can maintain a balanced and enjoyable pickleball experience. Remember, sports should be a source of joy and fulfillment, not stress. Taking care of your physical and mental well-being ensures that you can continue to enjoy the game you love.

Thanks for reading!

Pickleball Terry

Dinkpickleball@gmail.com
Owner of SarasotaPickleball.com

April 10, 2024April 14, 2024

Dill Dinkers? What’s That All About?

There is a new indoor facility coming to North Sarasota in late 2024. “The more the merrier,” I say. Heather and Tim Dull, the developers, and I met for a second time to talk about what their pickleball facility is going to be about.

First, without giving me the exact location, it is going to be west of 75 and somewhere north of the airport. It is already an existing building and will focus exclusively on pickleball. No frills, no restaurant, no bocce ball; just good old pickleball. Built for the pickleball enthusiast.

I like Heather’s and Tim’s laid-back attitude. Their down-to-earth personalities are totally relatable and welcoming. I would imagine their facility will have the same atmosphere. Come on in and play pickleball. Everyone is welcome!

This location will have 11 courts, a kitchen area for catering and private parties, and restrooms. “Maybe a ping pong table,” said Tim. “But nothing more. We are focusing on pickleball.”

Their brochure did mention a pro shop. You got to have a pro shop.

Heather and Tim are pickleball lovers. They play whenever they can. They just helped sponsor a pickleball tournament at Pompano and plan to do more.

They hail from Maryland where they were avid tennis players, but COVID shut down all the courts. Before COVID they did see the start of their tennis friends migrating over to pickleball, so Tim had the great idea to order a net and paddles on Amazon, and turn his driveway into a makeshift pickleball court. And that’s what started his and Heather’s pickleball fever.

The Dulls were already investors in other companies and businesses, so when the owner’s of Dill Dinkers approached when a pickleball investment opportunity arose, they were all IN.

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Soon they thought about their winter location in Sarasota and the need for more indoor pickleball, and that adding Dill Dinkers in the sunshine state just made sense.

There’s a growing need for indoor clubs as the population of players continues to grow, and that is how Heather and Tim are spreading the Joy of Pickleball.

I said, “Everybody is going to want to know how much?” No initiation fee and $49.95 per month plus discounted court fees. Court rentals will be through Court Reserve, and members will be able to reserve seven days in advance. In addition to court fees, non-members may make reservations up to two days in advance.

Also offered will be lessons, clinics, open play, and tournaments. Members will be able to bring their own food and beverages, and have private parties. The club will hold special events like Pizza and Pickle. It sounds like a great time.

As the Dulls open other locations around Sarasota, Bradenton and Venice, membership at one will work at all the other locations. I should mention that there is a discount if you pay for a 12 month membership upfront.

I inquired about the ability of a pickleball coach (Pickleball Terry) to rent out courts for clinics and about volunteering. They replied positively to both questions. I plan to do both once it opens.

If you would like more information, you can go to the Dill Dinkers website.

To sign up for more information and to be on the waiting list, scan the code.

Thanks for reading,

Pickleball Terry
PPR Certified Coach
Dealer for Gearbox, Diadem, Veloz

Dinkpickleball@gmail.com

October 22, 2023October 22, 2023

Pickleball: Redefining Retirement

By Pickleball Terry

Recently, a chiropractor I was speaking with made the following statement: “Pickleball is redefining retirement.” Wow, that is really true, I thought. Now that pickleball is so available to retirees, retirement is different. Could you picture your parents playing pickleball? What if your mother apologized for having to miss watching the kids because she needed to play pickleball? Heck, no!

Grandparents today appear and feel younger than ever. Additionally, they are active. Pickleball is ideal for senior citizens since it combines exercise with a strong sense of community and a vibrant social life. I believe that in their retirement years, prior generations were lacking something. We are so fortunate to have pickleball.

I noticed a big difference between seniors who play pickleball and those who don’t. People who play look younger, act younger and feel younger. Have you gone to a high school reunion lately and compare yourself to the other people in your class that don’t play a sport regularly? Yikes!

Let’s look at why pickleball is so popular with retirees.

Physical Activity: Pickleball is a low-impact sport that is easy for retirees to pick up. It provides an excellent way to stay physically active and maintain overall health without putting too much strain on joints. Many retirees are embracing this sport as a way to stay fit and healthy.
Social Engagement: Pickleball is a social sport that allows retirees to connect with others in their age group. It fosters a sense of community and camaraderie, which is important for mental and emotional well-being during retirement.
Inclusivity: Pickleball is relatively easy to learn, making it accessible to people of various skill levels. This inclusivity means that retirees with varying athletic abilities can participate and enjoy the sport.
New Balance Pickleball Shoes Click on the picture
Competition and Challenges: Retirement doesn’t mean the end of competitiveness. Many retirees enjoy the challenge of pickleball, whether they play for fun or in more competitive settings. This keeps their minds sharp and provides a sense of purpose.
Recreation and Enjoyment: Retirement should be a time to enjoy life, and pickleball offers a recreational activity that retirees find fun and engaging. It’s an excellent way to spend leisure time and enjoy retirement to the fullest.
Community Building: Many retirement communities and active adult communities have embraced pickleball as a core activity. This has led to the construction of dedicated pickleball courts and facilities, further fostering a sense of community and purpose.

Pickleball is redefining retirement by promoting an active, social, and enjoyable lifestyle for retirees. It encourages physical activity, social engagement, and a sense of community, helping retirees lead fulfilling and healthy lives during their retirement years.

Thanks for reading,

Pickleball Terry

A comic of 2 squirrels playing pickleball

September 10, 2023

The Question I Get Asked Most Coaching Pickleball

As a pickleball instructor and having taught over 1k students so far, the question I get asked most by novice to intermediate players is, WHY DO WE PRACTICE DINKING IF WE NEVER DINK DURING A GAME?

What is dinking? A dink shot in pickleball is a type of shot that is used to control the pace of the game and to gain an advantage over the opponent. The shot is executed close to the net, usually with a soft touch and with the aim of landing the ball just over the net.

Good question and so true. Warmup in my bootcamps/clinics/private lessons starts with dinking. Usually 100 times back and forth. followed by cross-court dinking, I can image that it is boring to some or even futile as when they play on the public courts, all they do and their opponents do is BANG! Slam! Hit as hard as the can.

Make sure you signup for the tournament at Pompano Park in Sarasota.

I explain, hitting the ball as hard as you can works well during lower level play, but not in advanced intermediate to advanced. If you are not seeing dinking in your games, you are playing in a lower level. Period.

In advanced games, dinking is an essential strategy. Keeping the ball low is mandatory, and one pop-up is what your opponents were waiting for, and it’s no second chances.

EASY BLUEPRINT What should you do?

1.Serve deep
2 Return deep
3. 3rd Shot Drop
4.Dinking with patience
5.Waiting for your opponents to make the unforced errors

To win in a dinking battle a player must practice dinking in a non-game setting like in one of my clinics. We drill, drill, drill.

If you would like to join one of my BOOTCAMPS, send me your email address and I’ll add you to the list. We practice keeping the ball low, speedups and resets, target practice, put-a-ways, doubles strategies, and 3rd Shot Drops.

Thanks for reading and keep playing pickleball.

Pickleball Terry

941-400-0978
Dinkpickleball@gmail.com

July 9, 2023

5 Ways to Keep Your Eye on The Ball in Pickleball

IMAGE OR 5 TIPS ON KEEPING YOUR EYE ON THE BALL IN PICKLEBALL

I was on the court today and my opponent popped a ball way up. Already picturing my graceful and accurate put-a-way, I raised my paddle and watched the ball descend, but at the last moment I looked down and completely missed. Victory was not mine, not to mention, it’s embarrassing.

What happened? I was so sure I had it that I got over confident. Rookie move! I and many players have done it. GOT IT! Oops!

Sometimes you can’t help but look away when someone lobs the ball directly into the sun. Below is a video of opponents who used the sun as part of their strategy much to the annoyance of Leigh Waters.

Other times, it’s just sloppy playing. Don’t be sloppy.

Here are five ways to keep your eye on the pickleball while playing:

Focus! Don’t get distracted by spectators, your opponents, or even your partner. Laser focus. Concentrate on tracking the ball’s trajectory, speed, and spin. A good drill is to write different numbers on the balls and play. The players have to spot the number
Track the ball with your paddle. Here’s a good tip from Sarah Ansboury, pro player, who said to follow the flight of the ball with your paddle. I use this with beginners and novices and it works!
Ball! Another tip, say BALL as you are watching the flight to your paddle. It’s hard to think of anything else if you are saying BALL.
Positioning. Position your body in a way that allows you to see the ball clearly. Keep your head up, eyes forward, and body balanced. Stay on the balls of your feet with eyes on the ball. Try to stay ahead of the ball in thought and action.
And my last tip is, it isn’t fair to your partner to NOT keep your eye on the ball. Yes, sometimes good old guilt works the best, but truthfully, you are not being a good partner or player for that matter, if you aren’t keeping your eye on the ball.

Remember, consistent practice and concentration are key to keeping your eye on the ball. By honing your visual skills and staying focused, you’ll be able to react quickly and effectively during the game, and we all want to play a good game.

Thanks for reading,

Pickleball Terry
Terry Ryan, Founder of Sarasota Pickleball Organization, LLC
PPR Certified Coach (over a thousand students so far)
Dinkpickleball@Gmail.com

picture of pickleball Terry