In pickleball, the ATP (Around the Post) shot is one of the most exciting (and frustrating) shots you’ll face, especially as you reach more competitive levels. While this shot may seem unstoppable, there are solid ways to defend against it.
Let’s explore at what level ATPs become common, how to anticipate and defend them, and strategies to prevent them from happening in the first place.
At What Level Does the ATP Start to Happen?
ATPs typically appear around the 3.5 – 4.0 skill level, when players start to master angles and dinks that pull you off the court.
At this level, players realize that hitting wide opens the door for an opponent to take advantage of the ATP, sending the ball around the net post and into your side of the court.
Check out this amazing ATP:
How to Defend an ATP
Defending against an ATP isn’t about luck—it’s about being proactive. Here are some tried-and-true steps to take when you see your opponent setting up for an ATP:
1. Drop Back Diagonally
As soon as you see a wide dink heading toward the sidelines, drop back diagonally. This gives you extra space and time to react.
Moving directly sideways limits your ability to cover the shot, but a diagonal step back allows you to cover more ground.
Here’s a good example of how to do it:
2. Lower Your Paddle
Most ATPs come in low. Keep your paddle low to the ground in a backhand position. The ball is unlikely to come high, so positioning your paddle lower increases your chance of getting a solid block.
One player suggested: “ATPs are typically hit low, so it’s crucial to get your paddle down early, much like when you’re resetting an overhead shot.”
Check out Coach Kyle Koszuta as he breaks down the ideal positioning for defending an ATP shot:
3. Be Ready for the Follow-Up
After you block the ATP, the opponent’s partner may be scrambling to cover the open space. Don’t just return the ball directly to the player who hit the ATP—aim for the middle or down the line to catch their partner out of position.
This way, you capitalize on your block and regain control of the point.
Bonus Strategy: Anticipation and Communication
An ATP is more likely to happen when your partner hits a wide dink. If you notice a ball going wide, communicate immediately. Call out “Watch the ATP!” to alert your partner. Anticipating the shot is half the battle.
One player commented: “The most common error I notice is players standing still and letting the ATP happen. You know it’s coming—move and defend the line!”
How to Prevent ATPs From Happening
The best defense is a good offense! Here are some ways to avoid setting up your opponent for an ATP:
1. Avoid Hitting Wide Dinks
ATPs happen when you hit wide, giving your opponent an easy angle to send the ball around the post.
Aim for more controlled, angled dinks that stay closer to the middle of the court. This limits your opponent’s ability to pull off an ATP.
2. Stay Sharp at the Kitchen Line
If your opponent sends a wide dink, it’s tempting to stand at the kitchen line and watch the point play out.
Don’t do that. Always assume your opponent will make the ATP and be ready to react.
3. Cover the Middle
If your partner is pulled wide and you know an ATP is possible, step in to cover the middle of the court. This helps prevent a clean putaway and forces your opponent to work harder for the point.
What Pickleball Players Recommend
We asked fellow pickleballers for their advice on defending ATPs, and here’s what they had to say:
- “Never think the point is over!”
Many players make the mistake of relaxing when they see an ATP coming. Always be prepared to return the shot and stay engaged in the rally. - “Anticipate the angle.”
ATPs are almost always aimed at the sideline, so position yourself accordingly to block the ball before it’s too late. - “Get your paddle ready.”
Having your paddle low and in position makes all the difference. If you wait too long to prepare, you’ll miss your chance to defend.
Turning the Tables on ATPs
Defending an ATP might seem tricky, but trust me—it’s totally doable. It comes down to smart positioning, quick reactions, and staying one step ahead. By dropping back diagonally, keeping your paddle low, and staying ready for the follow-up, you can turn what seems like a sure-fire ATP into your point. And remember, the best defense is to avoid setting up an ATP by keeping your dinks tight.
So, next time you spot a wide dink, stay sharp and be ready—it’s your moment to flip the script and turn defense into offense!
