If you’re looking to break through to that 4.0+ level, it’s time to focus on some underrated shots.
With Coach Gina Cilento’s expert guidance, we’re diving into the often-overlooked but essential shots for your progression. Plus, we’ve included drills to help you master each one.
1. Taking Overheads Off the Court
When to Use: Instead of hitting the ball back to your opponents, aim to take the overhead off the court and secure the point.
Drill:
- Setup: Have a partner feed you lobs.
- Action: Practice directing your overheads away from your opponents and towards the sidelines.
- Goal: Consistently aim for the corners to finish the point effectively.
If you’re struggling to defend against overheads, check out our friend Will East’s “Dig It Out” technique. Learn how to successfully return even the toughest overheads aimed at your feet.
2. Midcourt Volley
When to Use: Use this shot when the ball is coming at you hard, and you need to block it back over the net. For softer shots, try to place the ball at your opponent’s feet.
Drill:
- Setup: Stand in the midcourt with a partner hitting balls at you.
- Action: Block hard shots over the net and soften your touch for softer shots, aiming at your opponent’s feet.
- Goal: Improve your reaction time and control in the midcourt.
Coach and pro pickleball player Gina Cilento recommended tthis shot to us.
3. Forehand Roll
When to Use: The forehand roll is an effective surprise attack shot to catch your opponent off guard during a dink rally.
Drill:
- Setup: Start at the NVZ line, engaged in a dinking rally with your partner.
- Action: Look for slightly higher balls. Adjust your grip to a semi-western, drop the paddlehead, and come up and over to create topspin.
- Goal: Make contact well out in front to get the ball over the net and quickly dip on the opponent’s side.
whoaaa, look at this disguides forehand roll and how it earned them the point!
4. Erne
When to Use: We all know the Erne is perfect for surprising your opponents with a quick volley right at the net, especially when they least expect it.
Drill:
- Setup: Position yourself close to the NVZ, near the sideline.
- Action: Have your partner dink the ball close to the sideline. Step around the NVZ and volley the ball sharply down the line.
- Goal: Practice this movement to execute the Erne smoothly and legally, without stepping into the NVZ.
Check out pro player Jaume Martinez Vich nail an awesome Erne at the MLP’s Grand Rapids tournament 2024:
Be sure to check out our article on mastering the Erne for perfect execution every time.
5. Backhand Punch Volley
When to Use: This is an aggressive shot that catches your opponent off guard and can quickly turn the rally in your favor.
Drill:
- Setup: Stand at the NVZ line with a partner feeding you balls.
- Action: Use a firm wrist and compact swing to punch the ball with your backhand, aiming for your opponent’s feet or open spaces.
- Goal: Develop a quick, controlled punch that adds power and surprise to your backhand shots.
6. Reset Shots
When to Use: Use reset shots when you’re under pressure, to regain control and neutralize your opponent’s attack.
Drill:
- Setup: Start in the midcourt with a partner driving balls at you.
- Action: Use a loose grip and open paddle face to softly drop the ball into the NVZ, resetting the point.
- Goal: Consistently land your resets in the kitchen, allowing you to move forward and get back into a neutral position.
Jordan Briones offers excellent tips on the best technique for hitting reset shots.
Control the Game
Intermediate players often rely on solid basics and consistency, while advanced players use more sophisticated shots like the transition volley and reset shots to control the game and set up offensive plays. Incorporate these drills into your routine, and you’ll see your skills soar.
Happy playing, and see you out there!
