Because you can only score on a serve, many people think that the serving team in pickleball automatically has an advantage.
However, the opposite is often true because the serving team has to work their way to the kitchen line — where the majority of points are won — while the receiving team can automatically move there after the return.
Getting to the kitchen line after a serve can be difficult for many players, but earning appropriate time to transition to the non-volley line can be especially challenging for senior players.
In a new Selkirk Pickleball TV series, “Senior Success,” senior professional pickleball player Steve Paranto shares tips for seniors who play pickleball. In this episode, Steve shares his tips to buy extra time after the serve.
Tip 1: Hit a high-arcing drop shot
Rather than opting for a fast-paced drive, which your opponents can easily slam back at you, attempt to hit a high-arcing drop shot that lands inside your opponent’s kitchen.
Hitting the ball with a high arc causes it to travel more slowly, which in turn, gives you the chance to move forward.
If you’re confident in your drop, your partner can begin moving forward as you execute the drop. They can then cover a lot of the middle until you can make your way to the kitchen line.
Tip 2: Hit a low drive
If you prefer a faster game, you can hit a low drive. The key word here is low.
Your shot must travel just over the net. If it’s high, your opponents will have a lot of time to volley the ball back at you as you move forward.
Remember, your low drive should be hit as a setup for your next shot. You likely won’t hit a winner off your first drive.
Instead, your drive should force your opponent to hit a block volley, which gives you an easy opportunity to hit a fifth shot dink.
Tip 3: Communicate early
To hit either option effectively, you need to communicate with your partner quickly and clearly. So, as soon as you see the trajectory of your opponent’s return, call out who should be taking the ball.
Most players will hit the best third shot from a forehand position. If you and your partner are both right-handed, position yourselves close to the left sideline and the center line so that much of the court is open to your forehand shots. If you use opposite dominant hands, position yourselves near each sideline.
As the ball is struck, call out who will take the ball. Some partners prefer to have one player be the leader by calling who should hit every ball while some prefer to call only their own balls. Make sure you have a clear plan going into each match for how you and your partner will communicate.
Tip 4: Consider a lob shot
While a lob shouldn’t be used in every scenario, it can be used occasionally. Aim a high lob over the non-dominant shoulder of the player who hit the return.
You will likely catch them as they are running toward the kitchen, making it difficult for them to change directions in time to receive the ball.
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