Brett Kitchens and Tommy Boone demonstrate the Poach Drill , which is an anticipation drill . You must watch the ball come off your opponent ’ s paddle so you can move into position , be well-balanced with paddle in front , and have your weight shift forward into the ball as much as possible . Photo by Alice Tym .
“ closer ”? You need to be able to be consistent as well as able to hit the right shot when the opportunity arises . Pressure on every point .
This drill also teaches you not to change a winning game . If you are winning on consistency , why change and become a big hitter just because the score is close ? You are not going to a fire . This is the time to double down on watching the ball , moving your feet , and using good technique . If you find that you are losing this drill on a regular basis , you need to analyze your rhythm . The team that sets the rhythm usually wins the match . Back to the technique drill and polishing your ability to control the tempo . This drill helps you become a closer , not a loser .
Both male and female players are pushing the game forward with innovative play . New styles , new shots , new strategies are right around the corner . Drills need to be adaptive . Work hard on your strengths . Spend the first 15-20 minutes working on your weaknesses , then bear down and push yourself on drills that cement your strengths .
If you want to drive harder , get down lower and use your legs more . If you want to hit sharper angles , take your paddle back sooner . If you want to hit deeper , extend your follow-through . If you are striving for accuracy , keep your head down and watch the ball closer . You can focus on any one of these during any one of the above drills .
Remember to build your game around your personal strengths . The young pros are playing “ their ” game . You should play “ your ” game but keep raising your level . Use these drills to find your strengths and gain the confidence to use them in a match . •
Alice Tym was ranked 13th in the world for tennis in the ‘ 60s . She ’ s been named USPTA Coach of the Year and is a USPTA Master Professional . As a 4.5 pickleball player , she won gold in Huntsman , NSGA Nationals , US Open , and USA Pickleball events around the country . Alice is an IPTPA member , SSIPA founding board member , Bainbridge Cup Originator and gold medalist in Spain , Italy , and Germany .
JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2023 | MAGAZINE 43