3 Backhand Volleys Explained: Poke, Roll, and Flick
February 18 2025
Not all backhand attacks are created equal. If you’ve been using the terms poke, roll, and flick interchangeably, it’s time for Zane Navratil to set the record straight. Each shot serves a unique purpose and can be a game-changer when used correctly.
The Poke
Purpose: Takes away time and space from your opponent.
Execution: Used at full reach with minimal wrist action. Aim for the opponent’s chicken wing(elbow area) or hip to create awkward returns.
Best Used When: Your opponent is transitioning or at the kitchen line.
The Roll
Purpose: Generates topspin for a more controlled and aggressive attack.
Execution: Requires dropping the body and paddle below the ball before brushing up the back of the ball with an upward swing. Engages full arm and body movement from low to high.
Best Used When: Your opponents are farther back, or you need a precise, spin-heavy shot.
The Flick
Purpose: A quick, deceptive attack that requires strong wrist action.
Execution: The majority of power and spin come from a fast wrist snap. Reach into the kitchen and intercept any dink attempt that floats a little too high.
Best Used When: You need a fast shot from the kitchen line to catch opponents off guard.
Each of these shots plays a crucial role in a strong backhand game. Work on all three to keep your opponents guessing and gain the upper hand on the court.
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There are well over 100 paddle manufacturers serving the pickleball industry. We are the ONLY custom paddle manufacturer in the world. In order to understand what it is we do and why it’s unique, it’s necessary to understand how a paddle is made.
Every paddle with few exceptions has a honeycomb core. The different companies in the industry use one of three different materials for the core- aluminum, polymer and Nomex. We use all three. The core provides 75% of the way a paddle performs.
Then the honeycomb core is sandwiched between two thin layers of surface materials. Again, the different companies in the industry use three different materials- graphite, fiberglass composite and carbon fiber. We use all three. The surface material is about 25% of the way a paddle performs. Think of it as fine tuning the paddle’s performance characteristics.
The three different core materials combined with the three different surface materials make 9 different combinations of materials. Each plays differently. We make two (soon to be three) different shapes for our paddles. The Chaos has a large square sweet spot- at 8 1/2”, it is the widest paddle on the market. The Kratos has an equally large rectangular shaped sweet spot. Each combination of cores and surfaces is available in both the Chaos and Kratos shape.
Then we give each player the opportunity to select their paddle’s weight (ranging from 7.4-10.5 ounces).
Now comes the grip. Players can choose one of three different handle shapes, their grip size from 3 7/8” to 6”, one of three different grip materials and more than 10 colors for each grip style.
Now that the player has chosen the best paddle shape, core, surface and grip for their individual game comes the fun part. We can put any custom graphic the player chooses on their paddle face- either one of our many choices or one of their own- a picture, logo or graphic of their choosing.
Now every player can play with a totally bespoke paddle and watch their game immediately improve because they are playing with the right paddle for them in every way.
Every other sport has specialized equipment for every player except pickleball. Not anymore- now pickleball is catching up to other sports. Pickleball players spend a lot of time playing the game they love. Now they can play with the gear that suits them and not be forced to use a one size fits all paddle.
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