Giving advice on the pickleball court can be tricky. One minute you’re trying to help someone, and the next you’re on their “never play with again” list. So, when is it okay to offer feedback, and when should you keep quiet?
Let’s dive into the art of giving advice without stepping on toes—or paddles.
Why Being a Team Player Matters
Remember when you were new to pickleball? Every shot felt like a challenge, and unsolicited advice often felt more like criticism than help. Being a good partner means respecting where others are in their journey.
Everyone has a different reason for playing—some want to improve, others just want fun. Offering advice with empathy and humor makes you the partner everyone wants to play with—not avoid.
When It’s Okay to Offer Advice
✅ Ask First
“Hey, I noticed something that might help—want me to share?” Respect boundaries and give your partner the choice.
✅ After the Game
Mid-rally advice? Nope. Wait until the game’s over. One player said, “I love tips, but not mid-game! Ask me after, and I’m all ears.”
✅ When They Ask
If someone says, “Any tips for my serve?” that’s your cue to share.
✅ If You’re Skilled
Let’s be real—if you’re also hitting balls into the net, maybe hold off. Players respect advice from those who show skill.
✅ With Positivity
Frame advice kindly: “Your serves are solid! One thing that helped me improve my returns is…” Compliment first, then suggest.
When to Keep It to Yourself
❌ During Play
Mid-rally advice distracts more than it helps. Let them play!
❌ If They’re Just Having Fun
Not everyone is chasing a 4.0 rating. Some just want laughs and cardio. Respect that.
❌ If You’re Also Struggling
Bad day? Focus on your own game before critiquing someone else’s.
❌ If It’s Out of Frustration
“Stop popping it up!” out of frustration isn’t advice—it’s venting.
How to Offer Advice Without Being That Player
Offering advice in pickleball is an art, and no one wants to be the player who frustrates their partner more than helps. Here’s how to give feedback without stepping on toes:
1. Ask Before Advising
Always ask first. A simple, “Hey, I noticed something that might help—mind if I share?” shows respect and gives your partner the choice.
Without permission, even well-meaning advice can feel like criticism.
2. Time It Right
Timing matters. Avoid giving feedback during intense rallies or between points when everyone is catching their breath.
The best time? After the game or during a break. Mid-game advice often distracts more than it helps.
3. Limit Your Advice
Keep it short and focused. One well-chosen tip is plenty—no one needs a full coaching session during casual play.
Overloading your partner with advice can be overwhelming and counterproductive.
4. Use Encouraging Language
The way you say it matters as much as what you say. Start with a compliment: “You’ve got great control on your dinks! One thing that helped me was adding a little more wrist snap.”
Positive feedback makes players more receptive to suggestions.
5. Gauge Their Reactions
Pay attention to body language. If your partner seems disinterested or frustrated, take the hint and back off.
A forced smile or minimal response usually means, “Thanks, but no thanks.”
6. Respect Boundaries
If someone says they don’t want advice, respect that—no exceptions. Continuing to give feedback after they’ve declined is a quick way to ruin the fun for everyone.
7. Know Your Audience
Tailor your feedback to the player’s level and goals. A beginner might appreciate help with basics like positioning, while an intermediate player might prefer strategic tips.
And remember, some players are just there for fun, not a skills clinic.
8. Be Open to Feedback Yourself
If you’re going to give advice, be prepared to receive it. Nothing builds trust faster than showing you’re open to learning too.
“Thanks for the tip! I’ll try that next time,” shows humility and makes your partner more comfortable receiving advice from you.
Handling Unsolicited Advice Like a Pro
Unsolicited advice in pickleball is as common as a third-shot drop attempt—and just as tricky to handle.
Whether you’re giving advice, receiving it, or trying not to lose your cool when it’s forced upon you, here’s how to navigate these moments with grace and a touch of humor.
✅ Giving Advice the Right Way
If you feel compelled to share advice, remember the golden rules:
- Ask first: “Hey, I noticed something that might help—mind if I share?” gives the other player control. Without permission, your advice might feel more like a critique than assistance.
- Be concise: One clear tip is helpful. A detailed breakdown of their entire game? Not so much. “Try shortening your backswing on volleys” is better than a full mechanics lesson.
- Be kind: Your tone matters. Positive and encouraging feedback is much easier to accept than harsh criticism. “You’ve got great reach! Maybe try shifting your weight forward for more control,” sounds way better than “You’re off-balance every time.”
- Know when to stop: If they seem uninterested or say no, respect that. Nobody wants a pickleball lecture when they’re just there for fun.
✅ Receiving Advice Like a Champ
Sometimes, advice comes whether you want it or not. Here’s how to handle it without losing your cool:
- Smile and nod: Not all advice is worth applying, but a polite nod can save you from unnecessary conflict. “Thanks, I’ll keep that in mind!” is often the easiest response—even if you have zero intention of following it.
- Consider the source: Advice from a 4.0+ player? Maybe worth trying. Advice from someone who just missed five serves in a row? Take it with a grain of salt.
- Decide what’s useful: Not every tip will suit your style, but occasionally, you’ll hear something that genuinely helps. Be open to learning—but also trust your instincts.
✅ Dealing with Annoying Advice Without Losing Your Cool
Let’s face it—sometimes unsolicited advice is just plain irritating. Here’s how to keep your composure:
- Take a deep breath: It’s easy to snap back with a sarcastic “Maybe work on your own game,” but deep breaths will serve you better.
- Set boundaries politely: If the advice becomes too much, it’s okay to say, “I appreciate it, but I’m just here to have fun today.”
- Pick your battles: Sometimes, it’s best to let it slide. Other times, switching courts or rotating partners might be the easiest solution. No need to let one overly helpful player ruin your game.
- Laugh it off: A sense of humor can defuse frustration. Next time someone gives you endless advice, smile and say, “Thanks, Coach! When’s practice?”
Be the Partner You Wish You Had
Giving feedback in pickleball is like mastering the perfect dink—it’s all about touch, timing, and restraint. Think back to your early days on the court. Remember how overwhelming it felt when every shot felt new? Or how encouraging it was when someone gave you a tip after the game instead of mid-point?
Be the partner you wish you had when you were learning. Ask before offering advice, share with kindness, and know when to let things go. At the end of the day, pickleball isn’t just about improving your game—it’s about building friendships, sharing laughs, and enjoying every point played. Let’s keep it that way! 🎾😊
