The 'Don't Hit It Where They Ain't'

Ever find yourself hitting the ball with laser precision, only to have it rocketed back at you like a heat-seeking missile? It’s like you’re playing target practice for your opponent. We’ve all been there, wondering if our shots are secretly broadcasting our intentions. Today’s Tip: The 'Don't Hit It Where They Ain't' Principle This isn't just a catchy phrase; it's a fundamental strategic concept. The goal is to hit the ball to a spot on the court where your opponent isn't currently positioned or can't easily reach. This forces them to move, disrupts their balance, and creates opportunities for you to win the point. Think about it – if you hit the ball directly at your opponent, they're already in the perfect position to hit it back. Why give them that advantage? Instead, aim for the open court, the corners, or the spaces they've just vacated. Why it works: This principle leverages the fact that players can only be in one place at a time. By directing your shot away from their current location, you're essentially creating a chase for them. This chase often leads to them being off-balance, out of position, or having to make a more difficult shot, increasing the likelihood of an error or a weak return. It’s about making your opponent work, rather than making your own job harder by hitting straight into their comfortable zone. A common mistake is the 'hope and pray' shot. Players often just hit the ball hard without considering where their opponent is. They might be thinking about power or placement relative to the lines, but neglecting the most crucial piece of information: the opponent's position. Another mistake is focusing too much on hitting past the opponent, rather than away from them. This can still result in hitting the ball right at them if they happen to move that way. Practice drill: 'Open Court Awareness'. Play a game where the objective is to hit the ball into any part of the court that is not within a 3-foot radius of your opponent. Start with groundstrokes, then incorporate volleys. You can even add a rule where if you hit it directly at your opponent, you lose a point. This forces you to consciously scan the court and identify open space before you strike. Today’s Rule: The Double Bounce Rule The Double Bounce Rule states that the ball must bounce once on each side of the court before it can be volleyed. This means the serve must bounce on the receiving side, and the return of serve must bounce on the serving side. After these two bounces, players can then volley the ball (hit it in the air). When it applies: This rule applies to the first two shots of any rally – the serve and the return of serve. It's crucial for initiating the rally and preventing players from rushing the net and smashing the ball out of the air on the first shot. Why it matters: The Double Bounce Rule is fundamental to pickleball's pace and strategy. It prevents the game from becoming a purely aggressive net-rushing game and allows for strategic rallies to develop. It gives the returning team a chance to get into the rally and set up their own offensive plays. Example scenario: The server hits a serve. The receiver lets it bounce on their side. Then, the receiver hits the ball back, and the serving team lets it bounce on their side. Now, either team can choose to volley the ball if they wish. Common misunderstanding: Some players believe that every shot must bounce. This is incorrect. Only the serve and the return of serve must bounce. After those two mandatory bounces, players have the option to volley. Pro Insight: Watch your opponent's feet, not just their body. Their feet will often tell you where they are going or where they are expecting the ball, even if their body is momentarily positioned elsewhere. This pre-emptive reading of their movement can be more valuable than reacting to their current stance. Stop aiming for your opponent; aim for the empty space. Your opponent will thank you... by hitting the ball back to you, of course.