Let’s talk about the drop volley, a shot that looks great when it works but can leave you kicking yourself when it doesn’t. It’s tempting, but it only pays off in very specific situations. Most of the time, you’re better off keeping it simple, sticking to deep volleys, and maintaining your advantage.
However, there are moments when the drop volley can be a sneaky ace up your sleeve—let’s dive in and figure out when that is.
Why the Drop Volley Is Tempting
Why do players love the drop volley? Here’s why:
- It looks great when it works.
- It takes the pace off the ball, making it float softly over the net.
- It can leave your opponent scrambling to reach it.
But here’s the truth: more often than not, it doesn’t go as planned. The odds are not in your favor—especially if your opponent is fast. In fact, you might only succeed one out of ten times.
When to Avoid the Drop Volley
Avoid using a drop volley in these situations:
- Against Fast or Athletic Opponents
- A poorly executed drop volley will invite them into the net and put you on the defensive.
- When Receiving High, Slow Balls
- High balls bounce higher, giving your opponent plenty of time to reach them.
A general rule of thumb: if your opponents are far back, keep them back.
- Hit deep, strong volleys to maintain control.
- Dropping the ball short gives away your advantage and invites your opponent back into the point.
Here’s a perfect example of a drop volley gone completely wrong:
When to Use the Drop Volley
Despite the risks, there are times when a drop volley can work wonders. The secret? Surprise. Here’s when it makes sense:
- Opponents Are Pushed Back
- You’ve pushed your opponents deep or off to the side.
- They’re expecting another deep, hard shot.
- Element of Surprise
- Your opponent is bracing for a deep drive, and you drop the ball short instead.
- This catches them off guard, often leading to an easy point.
Check out these awesome plays where the drop volley totally dominated:
@kevindongpickleball Drop shot volleys… love or hate them? Let me know 👇🏼 Paddle: @Crush Pickleball Follow for more pickleball highlights, clips, and tips! #pickleball #pickleballhighlights #propickleball #pickleballaddict #pickleballtournament #pickleballmemes #pickleballtips #pickleballathlete #kevindongpickleball #kevindong #crushpickleball ♬ original sound – Kevin Dong Pickleball
Best Situations for the Drop Volley
- Slower Opponents
- If your opponent isn’t quick, a drop volley can be effective.
- When Opponent’s Weight Is Committed
- Use it when your opponent has already committed their weight in another direction.
Practical Tips for a Successful Drop Volley
Want to make your drop volley effective? Here’s how:
- Soft Hands
- Use light grip pressure (around 2 out of 10).
- Absorb the ball’s pace and lift it gently over the net.
- Deception
- Make it look like a regular volley.
- Keep your paddle out in front and add a slight arc with backspin.
- Positioning
- Be up at the non-volley zone line, ready to act quickly.
- Aim to land the ball softly in the kitchen when your opponent least expects it.
Final Tips
- Stick to Deep, Hard Volleys Most of the Time
- Keep your opponents pinned back and use your power to maintain control.
- Mix in a Drop Volley for Surprise
- Use it sparingly to catch your opponent off guard and win an easy point.
Happy pickling out there! Remember: finesse is great, but control is key!
