So you’re going to the US Pickleball Open. Here’s what you should know.
By Pickleball Terry
If you’re heading to Naples, Florida this April, congratulations—you’ve scored a seat at the most electric event in the sport. The 2026 Franklin US Open Pickleball Championships (April 11–18) isn’t just a tournament; it’s a milestone. This year marks a decade of dinks, and the 10th-anniversary celebration promises to be the biggest yet.
Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned “Naples Veteran,” here is the ultimate guide to navigating the 2026 Open.
1. The Basics: When and Where
Dates: April 11 – April 18, 2026.
Location: East Naples Community Park (The USOP National Pickleball Center). 3500 Thomasson Dr, Naples, FL 34112
The Vibe: Expect over 3,000 athletes and 50,000+ fans. It’s high-energy, high-humidity, and purely addictive.
2. Tickets: The “Free” Secret
Most people think they need a ticket just to enter. You don’t. * Grounds Access is FREE: You can wander the expo, enjoy the food trucks, and watch pro and amateur matches on 59 of the 60 courts without paying a dime.
Championship Court: Tickets are only required for the Zing Zang Championship Court. These are usually handled via a lottery months in advance, but check the on-site ticket booth early in the morning for any last-minute “no-show” re-sales ($5 surcharge usually applies).
3. Survival Logistics: Parking & Heat
Naples in April is beautiful, but it can be brutal. Good news is that this is in early April so you might luck out and have lower temperatures. I have played in two Opens and did not have a problem with the heat or humidity. I live in Sarasota so I have acclimated to playing in Florida weather. Players that come down from the north are usually blown away by the humidity. I have seen people hanging out in the air conditioned bathrooms just for a break. I recommend bringing a sun umbrella for shade, and a cooler full of ice and water. Ice will hydrate you and the ice will cool you off. I will take a scarf and soak it in the ice water, wring it out and wear around my neck. Instant cooling.
Parking is Cashless: It costs $10/day or $60 for a weekly pass. Park at the onsite lot or the Sugden Park overflow lot. Don’t stress the walk; there are complimentary shuttles. No cash this year. Bring your credit card.
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Hydration is Non-Negotiable: The “Naples Humidifier” is real. Bring a refillable water bottle (glass isn’t allowed). The grounds have hydration stations and “mister” tents—use them before you think you need them. There is a couple of places to find relief from the sun. Inside the big tent where they have the T-shirts and paddles for sale.
The “Pro” Kit: Pack extra socks and shirts. By noon, you’ll likely want a fresh change. I see lots of changes during the day. Swamp feet is real.
4. What to Bring
Bring: A portable chair (bleachers fill up fast), a hat/umbrella for personal shade, and a credit card (the event is largely cashless).
Leave: Your glass bottles and outside alcohol. Also, while dogs are welcome on leashes in the park, they aren’t allowed inside the Championship Court area.
5. Pro-Tip: The Schedule Highlights
If you only have a few days, here’s how to prioritize and just want to be a spectator:
The First Weekend (April 11-12): Focuses on the Junior Championships and pro clinics. It’s great for families.
Friday, April 17: This is “Semifinal Friday.” The intensity is off the charts as pros battle for a spot in the finals.
Championship Saturday, April 18: The grand finale. This is where legends are made on the Zing Zang court.
6. Enjoy the “Party”
Between matches, head over to the Lightstrike Patio. There’s live music every afternoon, great food, and the “Expo Tent” is the best place on earth to test-drive new paddles or snag 10th-anniversary limited edition gear.
For a player, the “check-in” process at the US Open has evolved significantly for the 10th Anniversary in 2026. Gone are the days of standing in long lines every single morning.
The Athlete’s Guide: Nailing the Check-In
If you’re competing, your morning routine is the difference between a focused gold-medal run and a frantic, stressful start. Here is how to handle the “digital-first” check-in process for 2026.
Pick up early: Head to the Athlete Check-In Desk at the USOP National Pickleball Center as soon as you arrive in Naples (even if it’s the day before your event). Buy T-shirts and hats as souvenirs because they well out early.
The Swag Bag: This is where you’ll grab your official 10th-anniversary player shirt and gear. Doing this a day early saves you from carrying a heavy bag around right before your first match.
1. The “Auto Check-In” Revolution
For the 10th anniversary, the US Open has moved to automatic check-in through the Pickleball Den software.
No Daily Desk Visit: You no longer need to visit the physical check-in desk every morning to tell them you’re there.
How it works: As long as you are registered and paid, the system assumes you are ready to play. You just need to be physically present at the park and watching your phone.
2. The Physical Logistics (Credentials & Swag)
While daily check-in is digital, you still need your physical “Athlete Credential” to access player-only areas.
3. Mastering the “Den”
Pickleball Den is your lifeline. Make sure you have the following set up 48 hours before your first serve:
Text Alerts: Double-check that your cell number is correct in your profile. You will receive a text the moment your bracket starts and another when you have a Court Assignment. Once you get texted you have 10 minutes to get to your assigned court. There you warm up until the referee tells you to start. He/she gives you the basics, has one of the players pick a number 1 or 2, and the winner picks if they are going to serve first or the other team is going to serve first, OR, the pick a side they want to play on to start. If you have sun in your eyes, I recommend starting on the side with the sun at your back and try to get as many points as you can before you switch at six. You do get two times out. This year you MUST say TIME OUT before you leave the court. Players used to walk off before the opponents knew what was happening. Oh, and don’t expect to have your court near the last one you played in. Hours later, you will be notified to play in a court that is way on the other side of the property.
The “En-Court” Button: Once your match is called, you’ll use the “En-Court Now” button in the app. This is how you see your opponents’ details and the specific court number.
4. The Paddle “Trap”
Don’t let a “failed” check-in happen at the court.
Approved List Only: For 2026, the US Open is strictly enforcing the USA Pickleball Approved Paddle List.
The Pro Tip: Referees may ask you to show a screenshot of your paddle on the approved list if it’s a newer or rare model. Have that screenshot ready in a “Pickleball” photo album on your phone to avoid a delay (or a forfeit).
5. Warm-Up Strategy
With 60 courts, you’d think there’s plenty of room, but warm-up space is a premium. It stinks because I like to play a few warm-up games before I play. Warning! There is a lot of down time meaning sitting on your butt waiting for your next game. This gives you time to walk around, watch your friends play, or shop in the tent. Food is available in a couple of food trucks and there is barbecue chicken for sale in the tent, too.
The “Plexi” Courts: Most matches are played on the permanent asphalt/plexicushion courts. If you can, arrive 90 minutes early to snag a few dinks on the peripheral courts before they are locked down for tournament play. Good luck getting one.
Check the Monitor: There are giant LED “Flight Boards” near the vendor village showing live match progress. If you see your bracket is “On Deck,” stop what you’re doing and head toward your court cluster.
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Tournament days in Naples are marathons, not sprints. If you forget these, you aren’t just uncomfortable—you’re at a competitive disadvantage.
1. The Gear Essentials
Primary & Backup Paddle: Both must be on the USA Pickleball Approved list.
2026 Rule Alert: Referees are performing more “spot checks.” If your primary paddle face delaminates or the grit wears down, you need a legal backup ready to go instantly.
Sunglasses. Oh my goodness, yes! Good ones with UAV protection.
WARNING! The “Visible Ball” Rule Fix: Under the new 2026 Rules (Rule 4.2), carrying a second ball in your pocket is a fault if it is visible to your opponent. If you like to keep a spare, ensure your pockets are deep enough to hide it completely, or leave it at the fence.
2. The Naples “Anti-Humidity” Kit
4–5 Pairs of Performance Socks: The humidity makes your feet sweat faster than you’d believe. Changing your socks between every match prevents “trench foot” and keeps your movement sharp.
Towel or Extra Grips: In the Florida heat, your handle will become a slip-and-slide. Bring a towel or two to wipe off the sweat. An extra grip in case you need one.
Cooling Towel: Keep one in your cooler on ice. Drape it over your neck during changeovers to instantly drop your core temperature.
Electrolyte Heavy-Hitters: Water isn’t enough. Bring salt tabs, liquid IV, or magnesium supplements. Start “pre-hydrating” 24 hours before your first match. Continue to hydrate all day long. There are places to fill up your water bottles around the courts. I have seen an ambulance take a couple of people away because they became over heated. Take care to actively keep yourself cool with ice and drink your water or juices.
“Quick-Burn” Snacks: Bananas, dates, or energy chews. Avoid heavy proteins right before play; your body needs its blood flow in your legs, not your stomach.
Mustard Packets or Pickle Juice: The “Naples Legacy” item. If you feel a cramp coming on, these are the emergency “shut-off” switches for your muscles.
Sunscreen (The “Face Stick” kind): Creamy sunscreens on your forehead will run into your eyes the moment you start sweating. Use a wax-based “stick” for your face and brow, or don’t apply to your forehead. Sunscreen on legs and arms is important also.
4. The “Mental Game” Misc
Portable Power Bank: Since match calls come via text in 2026, a dead phone = a forfeited match. Keep your lifeline charged.
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And sometimes there is rain. Be prepared to have games delayed and even postponed for another day. I know people who took the day off from work to play in the Open but when there division was postponed to the next day, they had to go back to work and couldn’t play. Nor did they get their money refunded. These things will happen.
I live in Sarasota and did stay in Naples to play. It was a blast staying at a motel with other pickleball players. Do I recommend playing in the US Open? Absolutely! What a great experience.
If you want to have another wonderful experience where you play pickleball everyday and go on adventures, then check out my next pickleball trip to Costa Rica this December 14-21, 2026. This my second time leading pickleball lovers to an amazing pickleball resort in beautiful Costa Rica. Go to Pickleballandcostarica.com. Or email me at pickleballterry@sarasotapickleball.com.
Unsolicited Advice on the Pickleball Courts: Helpful or Harmful?
By Pickleball Terry
Pickleball courts are one of the most social spaces in sports. Players of all ages and skill levels mix together, laugh between points, and often strike up conversations with complete strangers. That friendliness is part of what makes pickleball special. But there’s one court habit that can quickly turn good vibes into tension: unsolicited advice.
If you’ve played pickleball for more than a few weeks, you’ve probably experienced it. You miss a third-shot drop, and someone says, “You should really slow your swing down.” You pop up a dink and hear, “You need to get lower.” Sometimes it comes from a well-meaning partner. Sometimes it comes from an opponent. And sometimes it comes from the person waiting on the sideline who hasn’t even played the game yet.
The tricky thing about unsolicited advice is that it’s often given with good intentions. Many players genuinely want to help. They remember being beginners themselves and think a quick tip will speed up your progress. The problem isn’t always the advice, but it’s the timing, the delivery, and whether it was invited in the first place.
On recreational courts, most people are there to have fun, get some exercise, and enjoy the social aspect of the game. When advice is forced on someone mid-game, it can feel embarrassing or condescending, even if that wasn’t the intent. Instead of focusing on the next point, the player is now thinking about mechanics, posture, or grip, usually at exactly the wrong moment.
There’s also an unspoken hierarchy issue. Not all advice-givers are actually qualified to give advice. Pickleball is full of confident players who have played for a long time but may not fully understand proper technique. Bad advice can be worse than no advice at all, especially when it contradicts what a player is already working on.
So, when is advice appropriate?
A good rule of thumb is simple: wait to be asked. If someone comes up to you after a game and says, “Hey, do you have any tips for my serve?” That’s your green light. If your partner asks, “What do you think I should do differently?” then now you’re helping, not intruding.
If you truly feel compelled to say something, timing matters. Asking permission goes a long way. A quick, “Would you like a suggestion?” shows respect and gives the other person control. If the answer is no, let it go.
For players on the receiving end, it’s okay to set boundaries. A polite, “Thanks, I’m just out here to play today,” is enough. You don’t owe anyone an explanation.
“Thanks, I’m just out here to play today.”
Pickleball grows because it’s welcoming. Keeping advice invited and kind helps preserve the joy that brings people back to the courts again and again. Sometimes the best thing you can offer isn’t a tip, but it’s a smile, a good rally, and a genuine “Nice shot.”
Rebuttal: Pickleball Is Not a Drug—It’s a Lifelong Passion With Balance
Headline from the New York Post:
Doctors warned that “pickleball is a drug” as injuries rise among fervent players getting triangle fractures, wearing designer heels—even matching paddle and shoes. New York Post
Here’s how I would reframe this, not dismissing the concerns, but celebrating why that enthusiasm is a gift, and how balancing passion, safety, and joy makes it sustainable. By Pickleball Terry
Passion Isn’t Addiction, it’s Community
What’s being misconstrued: Doctors compare pickleball to “a drug” for the intensity it inspires. Some players are calling it an obsession, prioritizing paddle color over proper gear. New York Post
Rebuttal: Pickleball’s explosive growth—19.8 million Americans played in 2024, up 311% since 2021 New York PostWikipedia+1—shows it offers community, fitness, and fun, especially for those seeking meaningful connections after retirement.
Local angle (Sarasota): Players I know come for the rallies but stay for the post-game friendships and casual chats. It’s a joy that, done responsibly, brings health and happiness and not harm.
Injuries Are Real But Preventable—Like Any Sport
What the article notes: A spike in injuries like ruptures, torn menisci, and wrist fractures, has orthopedic doctors urging warm-ups, cooldowns, and correct footwear. New York Post
Rebuttal: That doesn’t mean the sport is harmful, it means precaution is essential. Like tennis, biking, or golf, pickleball is a fast-paced activity demanding preparation.
What we preach: At Sarasota courts, local coaches are teaching pre-game stretches, proper shoe choice, and knee-strength drills. I know that Coach Julie Stewart and I always start off with warmups. Safe training is sustained playing. Check with Dr. Frank, the Pickleball PT, and he will show you the proper way to warm up. Click Here
Style Can Still Be Smart
Point of tension: The article ridicules players who match paddle colors to shoes—even a patient who wore designer heels to her doctor appointment. New York Post
Rebuttal: Love and pride in your gear isn’t vanity. It’s just showing style. Gear can match identity, but balance means pairing style with stability. No more designer heels mid-rehab; just bright sneakers that support every dink and drive.
Positive angle to uplift: Across the country and beyond, pickleball is making a difference in tough places. In California prisons, pickleball has become a rehabilitative lifeline, improving mental health, connection, and reducing disciplinary incidents. SFGATE
“Enthusiasm isn’t addiction. Pickleball becomes a problem only when it’s done without balance, care, or community. Injuries ease with warm-up.”
Pickleball Terry
Note: SarasotaPickleball.com was rewarded this honor. https://bloggers.feedspot.com/pickleball_blogs/How to Play Aggressive Pickleball (Without Losing Control)If you want to win more pickleball matches, sometimes the best defense is a great offense. Playing aggressively on the court can help you take control, apply pressure, and dominate — but it needs to be smart and strategic.Here’s how to bring aggressive play into your pickleball game without becoming reckless.
CLICK HERE
🔥 What Is Aggressive Pickleball?
Aggressive pickleball isn’t just about hitting the ball hard. It’s about:
Taking control of the net
Applying pressure on weak shots
Attacking at the right moments
Moving with purpose and confidence
Finishing points decisively
Aggression is about mindset as much as mechanics.
✅ Benefits of Playing Aggressively
1. Forces Opponent Errors
When you play fast and aggressively, your opponents have less time to react — leading to more unforced errors.
2. You Control the Tempo
Aggressive players dictate how rallies unfold. You’re playing offense, not defense.
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.
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.
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
Pickleball has long been associated with older players, but that perception is rapidly changing. According to the Sports & Fitness Industry Association (SFIA), pickleball is the fastest-growing sport in the U.S. for the third year in a row, with a staggering 158.6% growth from 2020 to 2023. While older players still make up a significant portion of participants, younger demographics are joining in at record rates. In 2023, nearly 50% of all pickleball players were under the age of 35, proving that the sport is no longer just for retirees.
But what’s driving this surge in younger players?
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1. Fast-Paced and Competitive
Pickleball is a mix of tennis, badminton, and ping pong, creating an exciting, high-energy game. Young athletes crave fast-paced sports, and with professional pickleball tournaments now offering prize pools exceeding $5 million annually, the sport is becoming a legitimate career path for elite players.
Pickleball is incredibly beginner-friendly. Research shows that 66% of new players find it easier to learn than tennis, thanks to its smaller court size and slower-moving ball. Schools and colleges are also introducing pickleball into their PE programs, with over 1,500 U.S. high schools and universities adding it to their curriculum.
3. Social and Community-Driven
Pickleball is not just a sport—it’s a social event. A survey by Pickleheads found that 70% of players say the sport has helped them make new friends. With the rise of dedicated pickleball clubs and leagues across the country, young players are finding a welcoming and competitive community to be part of.
Many young athletes from other sports, especially tennis, are transitioning to pickleball. A recent USA Pickleball survey found that 30% of new pickleball players previously played tennis, as it provides excellent hand-eye coordination training with lower impact on the joints.
5. The Influence of Social Media
Social media has been a game-changer for pickleball’s popularity among younger players. Hashtags like #pickleball have amassed over 2 billion views on TikTok, with viral clips of rallies, trick shots, and pro matches attracting new fans daily. Top influencers and celebrities—including LeBron James, Tom Brady, and Drake—have even invested in professional pickleball teams, bringing more attention to the sport.CLICK HERE
Final Thoughts
With nearly 9 million players in the U.S. and growing, pickleball is no longer just a pastime for retirees—it’s a sport that is dominating all age groups. As younger generations continue to flock to the courts, the future of pickleball is looking brighter than ever.
If you would like to get your students involved with the fastest growing sport, check out the links below.
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.
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.
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.
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
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.
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
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