by Jenny Foster
Pickleball can be considered a game of survival. But to survive, a player must be able to gain or retain their point during matches. This means that they should be able to defend themselves against attacks of their opponents. Fortunately, defenses against pickleball attacks exist, and the following are some noteworthy examples.
But first, pickleball players should remember that there are different scenarios in which their opponents can attack them. Thus, it is important to be aware of the changing situations during a pickleball match to prepare themselves from attacks by their opponents.
- The first tip is when the opponent gets the chance to hit ball down on a player’s feet. Notably, a pickleball player should not be rattled when they realize of this advantage for the opponent. Instead, they must remain steadfast on the ground and relax.
Next, they should get low and remain at such position while waiting for the returning ball. Furthermore, the paddle should positioned down in order to hit the ball when it is directed toward their feet. While lowered down, the paddle should be positioned in such a way that the player can hit smoothly with a low backhand or forehand.
- The next tip applies when a pickleball player has returned to their position (low stance and low paddle) but still have the opportunity to take a step back or two. This backward movement will give them additional reaction time, that is, they have a higher chance of hitting the ball excellently. In this case, pickleball players should avoid moving backwards and hitting the ball at the same time. The legs should be firmly set on the ground before the player hits the returning ball.
- Lastly, when taking on the defensive, pickleball players should never attack the ball, especially when they are in the transition zone and assuming a low position. Pickleball players should always remember than when they are on the defensive, they should only focus on successfully blocking the ball and staying on the point. Executing attack should never be on their agenda.
In addition to the tips mentioned above, pickleball players should try to direct the ball towards the kitchen when blocking or while in defense mode. This increases the chance of the ball having a low contact point at the opponent’s court, thus increasing their chance of neutralizing the opponents’ attacks. That is, the lower the contact point at the opponents’ court, the higher the chance of neutralizing their attacks. And with consistency in their defense, pickleball players can eventually regain their net position and stay on the point with less worries.