David Zapatka
The No. 1 priority is to always remember you are on the same team. Do everything possible to help your partner, support your partner, and encourage your partner. Words and body language are powerful. They both have meaning and influence on you and your partner. Your energy is real. Partner cannot only hear it in your words and see it in your body language, they can feel it emotionally and psychically. You and your partner are playing to the best of their ability. When your partner makes an error, speak positively. Adding to the stress with negative comments or body language such as shrugging your shoulders, huffing, rolling your eyes, or not trying to play your best, doesn’t help your partner and ramps the pressure up on both of you. You both need to be clear-thinking and ready for the next rally.
Positive communication is a must. Discuss strategy before a match. Note the opponents’ strengths and weaknesses. Continue this conversation as the match unfolds and you learn more about your opponents. Communication also happens in the moment. Pickleball is a quick sport. It’s important to be talking all the time. Speak loudly, “Yours!” and “Mine!” keeping you and your partner on the same page as the points unfold. These types of communication will strengthen your partnership.
Play confidently. Play your best. Your partner will sense this, feel it, and will be driven to play their best too. Remember, we’re out here for fun. Have a great time! Smile. Laugh. Stay focused. This combination will lead to positive outcomes on the pickleball court. You will both play better.
Strive for consistency. Winning pickleball is a game of unforced errors. Cut down on unforced errors and your win percentage will improve. Whichever side makes the fewest errors is usually the winner. Trying to make the spectacular happen or playing like a “hot dog” wins few points and fewer friends.
It’s important to exhibit proper etiquette on the court and be accountable for your play. Be complimentary to your partner. Say “Great shot!,” Beautiful!,” or “Way to go, partner!” Also, give the opponents credit and compliments when deserved. Take responsibility for your errors. Apologize to your partner. Say “Sorry,” “My bad,” or “My fault.” When you make an error, apologize and move on. Refocus. Dwelling on your errors creates more errors. Positive talk builds partnership harmony. Developing these positive habits make you an attractive partner.
Play to your partner’s strengths and help them cover their weaknesses. You both bring individual talents to the team. The sum total will be more than your individual talents.
Have a question about pickleball? Want to know more about the sport, the rules, equipment, or have some pickilicious news you would like to share with our pickleball community? Email David Zapatka at [email protected].