Seems silly to say since that’s the #1 objective of the game. Get the ball inbounds is the #2 objective. It’s harder than you might think! Too much speed or too little? Try to hit the ball too low over the net to make the return impossible or very challenging for your opponent often has the net catching the ball instead of making it over. Hit the ball too hard and it’s out of bounds. Hit the ball to light and it’s still in your court. Sound familiar? Yep! For me, anyway. It takes practice, practice, and more practice. Developing the right swing, at the right time, with the right amount of force is a constant challenge for every pickleball player.
Errors Made
Then, there is recognizing the types of errors made. There are two types in the pickleball game…forced and unforced. A forced error is a shot hit by the opponent and it is too difficult to return (like that low, hard shot you’re trying to perfect against your opponent). An unforced error is that shot that could’ve been kept in play. If you keep track once or twice during game practices, you will certainly be enlightened as to what type of game you play. Do the math…take the total number of unforced errors and divide by the total number of points. You will likely smack your forehead with the palm of your hand and say a few choice words! It changed my game a bit. I’ve been playing somewhat better since that realization. I’ve slowed down a bit, too. I was surprised to notice how much more control I have experienced. And, pleasantly pleased at the consistency in placing my shots, as well.
Partners in Harmony
Teamwork is what the game is about if you plan on winning. Playing doubles is what’s most popular and what is being played in ladder leagues in your local parks and recreation courts. Simply put…partners! If you wish to play the game to win, you and your partner must be in harmony. Knowing what the other is doing or anticipating is what will win the game. Don’t allow a shot from your opponent to come flying right between the both of you and you’re each looking at one another in a perplexed expression as to say, “wasn’t that your play.” Get the game plan down between you and your partner before you start the game. Reassure each other…who’s playing the middle, depending on what side of the court you are on, when a player is running for the lob shot, know where you should reposition yourself, and know when to slow the game down and start dinking to force your opponent to make an error. These common sense techniques cover the court and prepare the pickler for the unexpected shot coming your way. It’s very important to get these techniques down and once you have, there’s a good chance the big “W” will be placed next to your name in the winners circle.
The 5 Faults in Pickleball
- Hitting the ball out of bounds.
- Hitting the ball into the net.
- Not adhering to the two-bounce rule.
- Non-volley zone faults.
- A ball in play strikes a permanent object – like a person.
