In Wednesday's newsletter, we shared tips on making your opponents hit tougher shots, but today we're turning the tables.
It's time to power up your own game with a mighty and unreturnable overhead. Selkirk pro player James Ignatowich is here to help, and you might be surprised to learn that his go-to drill doesn’t even need a paddle.
Grab a pickleball and head to the kitchen line. Your mission is simple: throw the ball so that it bounces at the opposing kitchen line. This drill might sound straightforward, but it's a great way to mimic the motion needed for a powerful overhead smash.
For players without a tennis background, understanding the dynamics of an overhead shot can be tricky. Think of it as similar to throwing a ball: it's about aim, force, and precision.
The key here is to make sure your throw translates into a smash that sends the ball sharply downward across the net — not over the fence!
One way to help you visualize the throw is placing targets on the opposing kitchen line.
The more you throw, the better your body will remember the motion, making it second nature when you reintroduce the paddle.
So, next time you’re at the court, grab a bucket of balls, stand tall at the kitchen line, and throw that ball down to the opposing side.