Pickleball is a team game, but not all partners are created equal. Choosing the right partner can be the difference between having fun and pulling your hair out.
Whether you’re playing recreationally or in a tournament, here are some red flags to watch for when teaming up.
Red Flag #1: The Blamer
If your partner is quick to point fingers every time a shot is missed or a point is lost, that’s a red flag. Pickleball is a team sport, and mistakes happen. Constantly being blamed is not only frustrating, but it’s also counterproductive.
Instead of sulking, your partner should focus on teamwork and how to adjust together.
Red Flag #2: The Know-it-All
Ah, the partner who always knows better. They’re quick to dish out unsolicited advice on shots you missed or strategies they haven’t even mastered themselves.
If you’re constantly being told how to play but never seeing improvement from their end, you’ve got a know-it-all on your hands. A good partner gives feedback constructively, not constantly.
Red Flag #3: The Silent Treatment
On the other end of the spectrum is the partner who says nothing. When you make a mistake, they sulk in silence, leaving you to feel like you’ve just committed a major crime. Good communication is key in any partnership.
If your partner can’t offer encouragement or even basic feedback, it can make the game less enjoyable.
Red Flag #4: The Ball Hog
You know the type—they’re everywhere on the court, taking shots that are clearly yours and leaving you standing there like a spectator. The ball hog can throw off your rhythm and make you feel like you’re just there to hold the paddle.
Teamwork is key, and a good partner knows when to step aside and let you take your shots.
Red Flag #5: The Over-Apologizer
While it’s nice to acknowledge mistakes, constant apologizing can become distracting and even frustrating. If your partner apologizes for every single missed shot, it can sap the fun right out of the game.
It’s okay to mess up—just don’t dwell on it! A better partner focuses on the next play instead of rehashing the last one.
What to Look for in a Good Pickleball Partner
Now that we’ve covered the red flags, let’s talk about what you should actually look for in a partner.
- Good Attitude: A positive outlook trumps skill level. It’s far better to play with someone who can shake off mistakes and laugh about it than with someone who gets frustrated after every point.
- Consistency: You want a partner who plays with some level of consistency. Sure, everyone has off days, but wild unpredictability in play can make it hard to establish any rhythm.
- Communication: It’s not just about calling “mine” or “yours.” The best partners can talk through strategies, make adjustments on the fly, and keep things upbeat even when things aren’t going your way.
- Adaptability: Flexibility is essential, especially in tournament play. If something isn’t working, you need a partner who’s willing to switch up strategies rather than stubbornly sticking to a failing plan.
Dealing with the Know-It-All and Unsolicited Advice
Unsolicited advice is common on the pickleball court, but it’s not always helpful. If your partner keeps offering tips you didn’t ask for, here’s how to handle it:
- Stay Calm: Acknowledge their feedback politely. You can say, “Thanks for the tip, I’ll try to work on that later.” But remember, you don’t need to change your game mid-match just because they said so.
- Set Boundaries: It’s okay to be upfront. Try saying, “I appreciate the advice, but I’d rather focus on enjoying the game right now.” This signals that while feedback is fine, constant coaching isn’t necessary.
- Use Humor: A lighthearted comment can ease the tension. “Guess we’ll save that for our pro tour debut!” shows you’ve heard them without taking it too seriously.
- Offer a Counter-Suggestion: If the advice is really distracting, suggest a different approach: “Let’s focus on our own games for now and talk strategy after the match.” It shows you’re willing to discuss improvements but not mid-rally.
- Redirect the Focus: Sometimes turning the conversation back to teamwork helps. “Let’s just focus on our communication for now—that’s what’ll help us win this one!”
When It’s Time to Change Partners
If you’re constantly clashing with your partner—whether it’s because of a lack of chemistry, different play styles, or just negative vibes—it might be time to call it quits. Here’s when you know it’s time to move on:
- Toxic Behavior: If your partner’s attitude is affecting your enjoyment of the game, it’s time to reconsider. Pickleball is supposed to be fun!
- Lack of Improvement: If you’ve played together for a while but haven’t improved as a team, it might be time to find a partner that clicks better with your style.
- No Fun: At the end of the day, pickleball is a game. If you’re not having fun with your current partner, don’t be afraid to switch it up.
Be sure to check out our article on how to gracefully let your partner know you’re moving on.
Choosing the right pickleball partner is crucial. Keep an eye out for red flags, but also remember to look for someone who brings the right attitude and energy to the court.
And most importantly—pickle on and have fun!
