Deciding whether to volley the ball or let it bounce can make or break your game, especially for players at the 3.0 to 3.5 skill level.
This decision is crucial because it impacts your control, positioning, and ability to maintain a strategic edge during play.
Why This Decision Matters
When you choose to volley or let the ball bounce, you influence the flow and outcome of the rally. Volleys can keep the pressure on your opponent, while letting the ball bounce can give you time to reset and plan your next move.
Understanding when to do each helps avoid unnecessary errors and keeps you in control.
When to Volley?
- Comfortable Reach: If the ball is comfortably within your reach, take the volley. This allows you to stay aggressive and keep the pressure on your opponent without overextending yourself.
- Attack Opportunity: If you spot a chance to put your opponent on the defensive, seize the moment and volley. A quick volley shot can catch them off guard and force a weak return, keeping you in control of the rally.
- Avoid Easy Returns: Prevent giving your opponent an easy high bounce. If a ball is likely to bounce high and become an easy target, volley it to keep the ball low and challenging for your opponent.
Don’t miss our article on block volleys vs. punch volleys—video included!
When to Let It Bounce?
- Out of Reach: If the ball is too far to comfortably reach without stretching too much, let it bounce. Overreaching often leads to mistakes, so give yourself a break and take the easier shot.
- Low and Fast Shots: When the ball comes in low and fast, letting it bounce can set you up for a more controlled return. It gives you a moment to react and plan your next move effectively.
- Tactical Reset: Use the bounce as a way to reset the point. Letting the ball bounce can help you regain better positioning and prepare for the next shot, keeping you in control of the game.
The coach at Universal Rackets’ Pickleball Clinics breaks down when to volley or let it bounce in a way that’s super easy to grasp:
Important Rule: Hold Your Ground at the Kitchen
Your decision to volley or let it bounce is also influenced by the crucial rule of not moving back from the kitchen line. Once you’re at the kitchen line, stay put. Whether the ball bounces in front of you or comes up a bit higher, resist the urge to back away.
Moving back can put you out of position and make it harder to control the rally. By holding your ground, you maintain your advantage and keep a strong stance at the net, ensuring you stay in control of the game.
How to Set Up Winning Shots When Letting It Bounce
Deciding to let the ball bounce instead of volleying can be a smart move. It’s not just about making contact with the ball; it’s about setting yourself up for the best possible shot.
Here are some key strategies to make the most out of letting the ball bounce:
1. Nail Your Footwork
Good footwork is crucial when you let the ball bounce. Use big strides and quick steps to get into the best position. This helps you stay balanced and ready to hit a solid shot.
2. Master Controlled Dinks
After the ball bounces, aim for a controlled dink. This keeps the rally going and makes your opponent move, giving you the upper hand. A well-placed dink can set you up for the next shot and frustrate your opponent.
Do you know the difference between lift dinks and push dinks?
3. Practice Patience
Don’t rush into a volley if it means losing your balance or positioning. Be patient and wait for the right moment to go on the offensive.
Staying calm and composed will help you make better decisions and keep control of the game.
How to practice making the Right Call?
Set up cones or markers a few inches inside the non-volley zone. Practice dinking with a partner, aiming to volley the ball within your comfortable reach.
If the ball is out of reach, let it bounce and return it with a controlled shot. This drill helps you instinctively decide when to volley and when to let it bounce.
Remember, the key to getting this right is all about finding your comfort zone and staying in control. By practicing these situations, you’ll get better at making smart decisions and keeping the upper hand in your game.
Keep practicing and happy dinking!
