INSTRUCTION
HOW TO MOVE MORE EFFECTIVELY AT THE NO VOLLEY ZONE LINE
Good players seem to move in sync with one
another . They do a tango of sorts at the NVZ line while managing to stay out of each other ’ s way and still have one person having a clear shot . Lesser players collide . They smack paddles . They hesitate . They apologize .
What is it about moving along the NVZ line that propels good teams to success ? Are the positions the same for women ’ s doubles , men ’ s doubles , and mixed doubles ? Where do you start if you want to move better at the NVZ line ?
First , you need to think about the geometry involved . The shot you hit enables your opponents to have multiple shots or fewer shots . For example , a crosscourt return gives your opponent the opportunity to hit a deep crosscourt back or a sharp angle crosscourt , as well as a downthe-line shot or a lob . Your partner has to cover at least four options . Whereas , if you had returned down the middle of the court , your opponent most likely will hit a shot that passes over the center of the net or close to it . Your partner can poach ? Think “ give an angle , get an angle .” If your angle is weak , your partner will pay the price . So , your chance of moving knowledgeably at the NVZ is much less than if you had eliminated the angles available . You must know and use your geometry .
Next , you need to develop shots that cut down the opponents ’ choices . Learn to serve deep down the middle and return deep down the middle . Learn to hit your overheads with good footwork so you can angle the ball away . If the opportunity is there , be able to keep the ball deep and wait for a shorter lob . When you practice , practice shots that have
By Alice Tym
a purpose . Know your options and more importantly , know your opponents ’ options .
Now you ’ re ready to get to the NVZ line and move in tandem with your partner . Let ’ s begin with women ’ s doubles and assume that the ability level of each partner is similar . I spoke with Marne Smith , certified IPTPA and PPR pickleball instructor in Franklin , Tennessee , about her body position at the line . She said to “ always
Marne Smith recommends that players keep their backs straight and their knees bent when they are at the NVZ line . As Marne shifts to her left to hit a backhand , Alicia shifts left as well to cover the center of the court .
As Alicia Russell moves to the right to hit a forehand , Marne Smith slides just behind the NVZ line to cover the center . Partners need to cover the logical response of the opponent .
PHOTOS BY MICHELLE CASSIDY