Saturday, February 15, 2025
Friday, February 14, 2025
2025 PPA Australia Match Breakdow With Tyson McGuffin and Kyle McKenzie
Tyson McGuffin/Lacy Schneeman vs. Gabe Tartio/Jessie Irvine
🏓 Highlights:
📌 Critical Momentum Swings – Breaking down the game-changing plays that shifted control.
📌 Mixed Doubles Strategy – How Tyson and Lacy adjusted positioning, shot selection, and teamwork under pressure.
📌 Hand Battles & Speed-Ups – Analyzing the fast exchanges and aggressive plays that defined the match.
📌 Defense – How both teams countered attacks and turned defense into offense.
Thursday, February 13, 2025
How to hit a topspin lob! Ft. Anna Bright 🏆🚀
Mastering the Topspin Lob with Anna Bright: An Instructional Guide
Elevate Your Pickleball Game with Strategic Lobbing
This shot can be a game-changer, providing a tactical advantage by sending the ball high and deep, forcing opponents to retreat. In this guide, Anna Bright breaks down her technique into actionable steps to help you incorporate this skill into your pickleball repertoire.
Step 1: Selecting the Right Ball and Opportunity
- Ball Selection: Choose a ball with the right bounce and speed for you to execute the lob effectively.
- Timing: Opt for the moment when you're positioned on the right side of the court, where you can exploit the opponent's backhand, making it harder for them to return the shot aggressively.
Step 2: Establishing Clean Footwork
- Stay Composed: Avoid hitting the lob out of panic or when you're reaching awkwardly.
- Positioning: Make sure you get behind the ball to set up for a controlled shot, enhancing your chances or your partner’s to respond effectively.
Step 3: Mimicking the Topspin Forehand Dink Motion
- Consistency in Motion: The lob should mirror your topspin forehand dink in terms of swing mechanics.
- Use of Shoulders: Employ your shoulder for additional height without over-relying on wrist action to maintain control and accuracy.
Summary:
Anna Bright's approach to the topspin lob emphasizes selecting the right moment and ball, maintaining calm and precise footwork, and executing the shot with a motion similar to a well-practiced forehand dink, augmented by shoulder movement for extra lift.
In-Depth Summary:
The topspin lob, as demonstrated by Anna Bright, is not just about hitting the ball high but doing so with precision and strategy. The first step involves recognizing when to use the lob, ideally when you can target your opponent's backhand from the right side of the court. This setup reduces the likelihood of an aggressive counter. Footwork is crucial; you must approach the ball with composure, ensuring you're well-positioned to hit with control rather than desperation. The technique further involves a motion akin to a topspin dink, but here, the shoulder plays a more significant role to give the ball the necessary height and spin. This method ensures the ball not only goes high but also dips quickly into the court, making it difficult to return. By mastering this technique, you add a layer of depth and unpredictability to your game, potentially turning defense into offense.
Anna Bright
Background:
Anna Bright transitioned from being a collegiate tennis player at the University of California, Berkeley, to a professional pickleball player. After completing a thru-hike of the Pacific Crest Trail in 2021, she embraced pickleball, quickly rising through the ranks with her adept skills and strategic gameplay.
Career Highlights:
Known for her versatility on the court, particularly her ability to use spin and placement to her advantage.
Anna has been highlighted for her unique combination of athleticism, derived from her tennis background, and the finesse required in pickleball.
She's an avid adventurer, which reflects in her dynamic and adaptive playing style.
Her involvement with "The Girlies Pickleball Club" shows her commitment to growing the sport, especially among women.
Current Status:
Anna continues to compete at the pro level, bringing her experience and insights to both her games and her teachings, making her a respected figure in the pickleball community. Her LinkedIn profile underscores her journey from sports to outdoor adventures, now back to sports with a focus on pickleball.
Monday, February 10, 2025
How to Hit a PERFECT Topspin Drop In Less than 5 Minutes
Master the Topspin Drop Shot: Your Secret Weapon for Pickleball Precision
Learn the Fundamentals to Add Arc, Control, and Pressure to Your Game
The topspin drop shot is a game-changing skill in pickleball, blending finesse with tactical advantage. By mastering this shot, you’ll create a high-arcing ball that buys time for you and your partner to advance to the kitchen line, while forcing opponents to handle a dipping, spin-heavy return. In this guide, we break down the mechanics of topspin—why it works, how to execute it, and when to deploy it—so you can transform your drop shots from predictable lobs into precision weapons. Let’s unlock the secrets to perfecting this essential shot.
1. Why Topspin Wins: Two Key Advantages
Arc = Time: A topspin-driven arc provides "LOFT" (Lots of Freaking Time), letting you and your partner reset or advance.
Dip = Pressure: The spin causes the ball to drop sharply after clearing the net, making it harder for opponents to attack.
2. Master the Swing Path: Brush, Don’t Slap
Paddle Motion: Start with your paddle tip at the 5 o’clock position and brush upward to 2 o’clock (imagine "painting" the ball’s underside).
Stiff Wrist, Strong Control: Keep your wrist firm—think of your index finger pointing down during the swing, then lifting upward. Avoid floppy wrists to maintain consistency.
3. Perfect Contact Point: Lift from the Bottom
Aim for the Ball’s Equator: Strike the bottom half of the ball to generate lift. Bend your knees to see the ball’s underside clearly.
Body Positioning: Contact the ball in front of your body (within the "V-zone" formed by your hips, knees, and feet). Never let the ball get behind you!
4. Time It Right: Hit on the Descent
Patience Pays Off: Let the ball bounce and reach its apex (highest point) before striking as it descends. This timing maximizes control and spin.
Avoid Rushed Shots: Hitting on the rise increases errors—wait for the ball to "commit" to its downward path.
5. Practice Like a Pro: Drills for Muscle Memory
Baseline to Kitchen Drill: Have a partner feed balls from the kitchen line while you practice topspin drops from the baseline, advancing toward the net.
Add Pressure: Restrict yourself to topspin-only shots during rallies, or award extra points for successful drops.
Final Tip: Consistency beats power! Focus on smooth, controlled brushing motions rather than swinging hard. With practice, your topspin drop will become a reliable, crowd-pleasing weapon. Now grab your paddle, embrace the spin, and watch your opponents scramble! 🥒🎾
Master the Dink: 5 Essential Tips for Beginner Pickleball Success
Sep 24, 2024: Hope and Jack's Drill Session at the Jefferson County Courthouse in Port Townsend
Build a Strong Foundation with These Fundamentals for Consistent Soft Game Play
Introduction:
Dinking is the heartbeat of pickleball’s soft game—a skill that separates casual players from strategic competitors. For beginners, mastering the dink early can transform your play by improving control, patience, and court awareness. In this guide, Hope Borsato breaks down five foundational elements to help you refine your dinking technique, avoid common mistakes, and outmaneuver opponents at the net. Let’s dive into the mechanics that will turn your dinks from weak pops into precise, game-changing shots.
1. Ready Position: Start Strong
Keep your paddle above net height in a neutral ready position. This minimizes reaction time and ensures you’re prepared for both volleys and bounce dinks. Your knees should be slightly bent, weight forward, and eyes locked on the ball.
2. Arm & Body Positioning
Extend your arm comfortably with a slight bend in the elbow, creating a stable but flexible base. Avoid tensing up—your body should stay relaxed yet poised to pivot or adjust. If the ball angles deeper, use quick footwork to position yourself early, avoiding rushed "short hops."
3. Stay Still on Contact
After moving to the ball, freeze your body (except your paddle arm!) at the moment of contact. Unnecessary movement introduces inconsistency. Focus on a smooth, controlled paddle-face angle to guide the ball softly over the net.
4. Follow Through with Purpose
Let your paddle and torso rotate naturally toward your target after striking the ball. This follow-through maintains accuracy and adds gentle topspin. Think of “painting” a line over the net with your paddle.
5. Track the Ball Relentlessly
Watch the ball until it leaves your paddle, then immediately shift focus to your opponent’s paddle. Anticipating their next shot helps you reset quickly and stay one step ahead.
Final Tip: Practice these skills in slow, deliberate drills to build muscle memory. Consistency beats power in the dink game—patience and precision will earn you more points than aggression. Now grab your paddle, hit the court, and let those soft shots shine! 🥒🎾
Thursday, February 6, 2025
Jack Munro: Pro Match Analysis
In this video, Jack Munro analyzes key patterns, decision-making, and high-level strategies from the 2024 PPA Select Medical Orange County Cup Presented Mens Doubles Semi Finals match. He breaks down how top players anticipate shots, adapt to their opponents, and maintain control throughout the point.
- 00:00 Intro
- 00:06 Film Review Setup
- 00:23 Shading with Partner
- 01:55 Taking Balls Early
- 02:45 Hands Battle Mistake
- 04:20 Volley Dink Shift
- 05:54 Finding Weak Spots
- 07:00 Clogging Middle
- 08:35 Poaching Effectively
- 10:06 Sliding Backhand
- 12:01 No Backswing Rule
- 13:43 Final Thoughts
(5) Hayden Patriquin/Pablo Tellez v (12) Julian Arnold/Jack Munro
Jack Munro: Professional Pickleball Player Bio
Jack Munro, nicknamed "Jr. Mint," is a rising star in professional pickleball known for his ambidextrous playstyle, dynamic athleticism, and youthful energy. Born in Thousand Oaks, California, Munro began his athletic journey in baseball but shifted to pickleball at age 10 after a shoulder injury forced him to adapt. This led to his unique ability to play left-handed, earning him the label "artificially ambidextrous" 14. By age 13, he became the youngest 5.0-rated player in recorded history, a milestone that foreshadowed his professional success 48.
Currently a sophomore studying economics at the University of Texas at Austin, Munro balances academics with a thriving career. He signed a three-year contract with Major League Pickleball (MLP) in 2023, a pivotal moment that elevated his visibility and sponsorship opportunities 4. Munro trains in Austin, often practicing with world No. 1 Ben Johns, a partnership that has sharpened his competitive edge 410. His gameplay emphasizes spin-heavy third shots, two-handed backhands, and adaptability, using the ProXR Sweet Spot Max paddle for enhanced control and spin 810.
2024 Medal Achievements
In 2024, Munro solidified his status as a top contender with standout performances in major tournaments:
USAP National Championships (Mesa, AZ)
🥇 Men’s Doubles Gold with Will Howells: Dominated the field, defeating Erik Lange and Max “Purple Jesus” Manthou in a tight final (11-8, 11-9) 37.
APP New York City Open (USTA Billie Jean King Center)
🥇 Men’s Doubles Gold with Mario Barrientos: Secured their first APP Tour gold of 2024, defeating Erik Pailet and Ben Newell (11-6, 11-5) in a decisive final 5.
English Open Pickleball Tournament
🥈 Men’s Doubles Silver with Richard Livornese Jr.: Finished second in the OPEN category, falling to Erik Lange and Max “Purple Jesus” Manthou 9.
Career Highlights & Style
Innovative Play: Munro’s ambidexterity and strategic shot selection, including spin-driven dinks and two-handed backhands, make him a versatile threat 810.
Community Impact: A beloved figure in the Simi Valley pickleball community, he began competing against older players as a child, showcasing the sport’s inclusivity 48.
Advocacy: Vocal about structural issues in professional pickleball, Munro has criticized league fragmentation and payment uncertainties post-merger 4.
With a blend of technical skill and competitive grit, Jack Munro continues to ascend in professional pickleball, embodying the sport’s rapid growth and youthful innovation. For full tournament details, visit the cited sources 357.
2025 PPA Australia Pickleball Open Sorry Not Sorry Podcast
0:00 Quang Duong / CJ Klinger vs Bao Duong / Phuc Huynh - Nasty Nelson
3:49 Mixed Doubles
Jessie Irvine/Gabe Tardio vs Allyce Jones/Jay Devilliers SF
Jessie Irvine/GabeTardio vs Lacy Schneemann/Tyson McGuffin
Check out: Jessie Irvine's Pickleball Clinic
Tuesday, February 4, 2025
Pickleball at 60: From a Bored Family Game to a National Phenomenon
Celebrating Six Decades of Innovation, Community, and Unprecedented Growth in America and Beyond
In the summer of 1965 on Bainbridge Island, Washington, a chance improvisation on an old badminton court gave birth to what is now one of the nation’s fastest-growing sports. When Congressman Joel Pritchard, businessman Bill Bell, and neighbor Barney McCallum gathered to entertain their families with a makeshift game using ping-pong paddles, a spark was lit that would transform backyard fun into a global phenomenon. As we mark the 60th anniversary of pickleball in 2025, we look back on its humble origins, chart its remarkable growth, and consider what the future may hold for this uniquely American pastime.
A Timeline of Pickleball’s Growth
1965: Inception on Bainbridge Island
After a round of golf left their families idle, Pritchard and Bell improvised a game using an old badminton court, table tennis paddles, and a perforated plastic ball. The game—later dubbed “pickleball” (a name inspired by the “pickle boat” concept, not the family dog, as research shows the dog was born later)—was born in that carefree summer afternoon. en.wikipedia.org1967: The First Dedicated Court
A permanent pickleball court was constructed in the backyard of Bob O’Brian, a neighbor of Pritchard, cementing the game’s transition from spontaneous play to an organized sport. playpickleball.com1972–1976: Early Media and Tournaments
By 1972, a corporation was formed to protect the game’s innovation, and soon after, major publications like the National Observer and Tennis Magazine began chronicling pickleball’s rise. In 1976, the first official tournament was held at South Center Athletic Club in Tukwila, Washington, heralding the sport’s competitive future. playpickleball.com1984: National Organization and Rulebook
The United States Amateur Pickleball Association (USAPA) was established in 1984, publishing the sport’s first official rulebook and launching a national movement that would soon see pickleball played in all 50 states. en.wikipedia.org1990s–2000s: Expansion and Innovation
As pickleball spread across the country, innovations such as composite paddles and dedicated facilities emerged. The sport’s increasing popularity was underscored by the launch of the first pickleball website in 1999, connecting players and enthusiasts nationwide. onixpickleball.com2010–2023: Record-Breaking Growth
With millions of players in the United States and an ever-expanding international presence, pickleball’s momentum has continued unabated. In 2023, estimates put the number of U.S. players at over 13.6 million, and the sport was named the fastest-growing sport in America for three consecutive years. en.wikipedia.org2025: The Diamond Jubilee of Pickleball
As the sport celebrates its 60th anniversary—a milestone often associated with diamond jubilees—the world is watching pickleball’s continuing evolution, both as a competitive pursuit and a unifying recreational activity.
The Evolution of a Game: From Backyard Play to Global Recognition
Origins and Innovation:
What began as a simple, improvised game to relieve boredom has evolved into a structured sport with a governing body, dedicated courts, and professional tournaments. The ingenuity of early pioneers has led to standardized equipment, comprehensive rulebooks, and organized competitions that have united communities from small towns to major cities.
Community and Culture:
Pickleball’s appeal lies in its accessibility and its low barrier to entry. It is a game that welcomes players of all ages and fitness levels—a sport that has fostered social interaction and community engagement across the United States and increasingly around the globe. Its rapid adoption has transformed local parks, community centers, and even private clubs into hubs of athletic activity.
Professionalization and Media Exposure:
The establishment of professional tours and leagues in recent years has further propelled the sport into the mainstream. With televised tournaments, sponsorship deals, and celebrity endorsements, pickleball now stands shoulder-to-shoulder with more established sports, capturing the imagination of millions and inspiring a new generation of athletes.
Global 60th Anniversaries in 2025: A Year of Reflection and Celebration
2025 is not only the year of pickleball’s diamond jubilee but also a landmark for countless historical anniversaries around the world. As nations and institutions commemorate 60 years since pivotal events in civil rights, science, and culture, pickleball’s milestone offers a unique lens through which to view global progress. For instance:
Civil Rights and Social Change:
Many significant social reforms and movements that reshaped societies in the mid-1960s—such as the Voting Rights Act and landmark court decisions—reach their 60th anniversary in 2025, reminding us how far communities have come and how sports like pickleball embody the spirit of inclusion and unity.Scientific and Cultural Milestones:
Innovations and discoveries from the 1960s, spanning from space exploration to advancements in civil liberties, are celebrated this year alongside sports achievements. These anniversaries highlight an era of creativity and transformation, mirroring pickleball’s own journey from improvised game to celebrated sport.A Broader Global Context:
With more than 3,600 historical anniversaries listed for 2025, the pickleball celebration joins a chorus of global commemorations. This collective reflection underscores a worldwide commitment to progress, remembrance, and the celebration of human ingenuity across disciplines—from politics and art to technology and athletics.
Summary and Future Projections
As we celebrate the 60th anniversary of pickleball in 2025, the sport stands as a testament to the power of innovation born out of necessity. What began on a simple backyard court has grown into a multi-million participant sport that not only provides physical fitness but also fosters social connection and community pride. The timeline of pickleball’s evolution—from its improvised beginnings in 1965, through rapid national expansion in the 1980s and a media-fueled boom in the 21st century—illustrates a dynamic trajectory marked by inclusivity, technological advancement, and competitive spirit.
Looking forward, the future of pickleball appears brighter than ever. Projections indicate that the sport will continue its rapid expansion globally, with increasing investments in infrastructure, professional leagues, and international competitions. Innovations in equipment and training methodologies are expected to refine the game further, while initiatives to include pickleball in multi-sport events and possibly the Olympics could elevate its status to new heights. As the world commemorates not only pickleball’s diamond jubilee but also a host of 60th anniversary milestones across history, this year serves as both a celebration of past achievements and a herald of exciting possibilities on the horizon.
In the words of early pioneers, what started as a game to “end summer boredom” has evolved into a symbol of collective creativity and community spirit. In 2025, as we honor 60 years of pickleball, we also celebrate the broader tapestry of human progress—a legacy that continues to inspire innovation and unity across the globe.
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