Tip of the day

This is the hardest return to play against in pickleball

Coach Austin Hardy details the mechanics and strategies for developing a high-performance return of serve that forces opponents into difficult third-shot decisions.

A top-tier return is essentially a condensed version of a drive, utilizing a compact motion to redirect the server's existing power.

Unlike many other shots in the game, the return of serve is best executed while your body is already in motion toward the kitchen line.

Visualizing an inflated beach ball between your arms helps maintain the proper structure and prevents the paddle from wrapping too far back.

The "pet the dog" technique involves dropping the paddle tip to start the swing from roughly a foot below the expected contact point.

Finishing with a windshield wiper motion generates the necessary topspin to keep the ball deep in the court while staying aggressive.

Establishing a wide, balanced stance four feet behind the baseline provides the stability and spring needed to react to various serve types.

Hitting the return crosscourt or toward the middle reduces the available angles for your opponents and creates potential communication errors.

Directing the ball in front of your already-established partner gives you more time to transition forward while they handle any immediate counters.

Targeting an opponent's backhand remains a classic yet highly effective way to draw out weak returns or force them into awkward footwork.

Consistency on the return is built by keeping the paddle face vertical at contact and ensuring every shot is followed by a determined move to the net.

Key Points:

• Think of the return as a condensed drive that utilizes the server's own pace to stay deep and aggressive.

• Maintain a compact arm structure to ensure the paddle stays within your peripheral vision throughout the entire swing.

• Execute the footwork by stepping with the dominant leg on forehands and the non-dominant leg on backhands to maintain forward momentum.

• Aim for the middle of the court to eliminate an opponent's offensive angles and cause confusion between partners.

• Start your swing from below the ball to create enough topspin for a safe yet difficult-to-handle trajectory.

Watch the full tutorial here.

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Happy pickling,

Paul