ALLYSON ELLIS IS AN ACCOMPLISHED TABLE TENNIS PLAYER WHO BRINGS THOSE SKILLS TO PICKLEBALL. HER BODY IS BALANCED AS SHE TRANSFERS HER WEIGHT FORWARD INTO THE SHOT. HER HEAD IS OVER THE BALL FOR GREATER CONTROL, AND HER EYES ARE FOCUSED ON THE BALL TO MAKE SURE SHE CONTACTS THE PADDLE IN THE PROPER PLACE— FOR A SLICE IN THIS CASE. HER BODY IS UNDER CONTROL AND HER EYES ARE FOCUSED ON THE POINT OF CONTACT. purpose to your change. Even a high, deep, nothing ball can be an effective backhand serve.
All of these serves require practice. Remember to put the stress on your legs, not your arm, when using a backhand serve. Go across your body back to front with the power generated by your legs. The backhand is a natural shot. Think about rolling forward as you strike the ball and continue your forward momentum. Vary the spot on your paddle where you make contact to add various spins. •
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.
NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2025 | MAGAZINE 27