catches the opponents who tend to hang back. Topspin, underspin, and sidespin are all useful for deception.
Do not outsmart yourself or get so tricky that you can’ t keep up with your own shots. Make sure your footwork is equal to your creativity. Deception should have a purpose. You need to analyze your opponent before you design a strategy.
Deception requires shot-making, so when you practice, be sure to emphasize those actions that make all shots better: watching the ball closely, moving your feet, taking your paddle back early, extending your followthroughs, bending your knees, and paying attention to what works.
Use what is successful and unload what isn’ t working. Remember who it is you are trying to deceive. •
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 has 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.
MARCH / APRIL 2026 | MAGAZINE 27