INSTRUCTION
by KYLE McMAKIN
KEEP YOUR KNIVES SHARP
I was coaching a camp in Virginia Beach and there was a player , Bridget , a formidable force on the court who favored driving the ball hard on almost every shot . Undoubtedly , she won many points with this approach and believed it to be the pinnacle of her skill . Throughout the camp , however , I witnessed Bridget lose numerous points due to the limitations of this style of play . Despite my efforts to explain and discuss the flaws in her strategy , she remained steadfast , wielding her attack like a cherished knife in a chef ’ s set . Indeed , Bridget ’ s attack was a powerful and dangerous weapon on the pickleball court . It cut through her opponents ’ defenses with the sharpness of a blade , leading to delighted scattered victories .
Yet , there were moments when her reliance on this favored knife became her downfall . Inappropriately timed and poorly executed , her attacks inadvertently presented her opponents with opportunities to counter with their own well-honed shots . This apparent contradiction can be understood in the context of the strategic nature of the game . Pickleball demands careful decision-making , knowing when to unleash one ’ s weapons and when to exercise restraint , adapting to the ebb and flow of the game . Bridget ’ s indiscriminate use of her attack allowed her opponents to anticipate and respond effectively , turning the tables on her .
Bridget ’ s journey took a transformative turn as she embraced the need for tactical versatility . By expanding her repertoire and sharpening her skills with other shots , she discovered the inherent advantages of a diverse array of knives in her set . The importance of honing each facet of her game became apparent . With guidance , she focused on refining her previously neglected drop shot , a knife she had allowed to grow dull . Gradually , Bridget comprehended the benefits of incorporating this underutilized technique into her playing style .
Over the duration of the camp , Bridget diligently engaged in dedicated practice and sought guidance , and her once-dull third shot drop revealed its newfound sharpness . She saw how this refined weapon could set up herself or her partner for a devastating follow-up , seamlessly transitioning to her favorite blade . Bridget ’ s journey stands as a testament to the transformative power of continuous improvement . By investing time and effort in honing her skills , she elevated her performance and became a more formidable player on the pickleball court .
The central concept conveyed through Bridget ’ s story is clear : spend time sharpening your knives . Embracing the advantages of a well-rounded skill set , Bridget learned to keep each blade sharp and ready for deployment . Her story teaches us the profound importance of investing in personal development and continuous improvement . Just as a chef relies on a varied set of knives to craft culinary masterpieces , pickleball players must sharpen their skills across multiple shots . Through the pursuit of mastery and the unwavering dedication to honing one ’ s abilities , true excellence is achieved on the pickleball court . Let Bridget the Banger ’ s story inspire us to strive for continual growth and the refinement of our own unique set of skills . •
Kyle McMakin is a touring pickleball professional , former Division I tennis player ( UC Davis ) and head pro for LevelUp Pickleball Camps . He is a two-time Triple Crown winner , with a DUPR above 6.0 in both singles and doubles .
A well-honed third shot drop can be a game changer for many players looking to level up from 3.0 to 4.0 and beyond .
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