Student Of The Game - Pickleball Drilling Journal

Monday, September 9, 2024

Pickleball All Children Invited - Pickleball Minute

Pickleball Prodigies: Coach Matty on What It Really Takes to Go Pro

From Smiling to Drilling, Coach Matty Klein Breaks Down the Essentials for Aspiring Pickleball Pros and Weekend Warriors Alike

Pickleball isn’t just a sport; it’s a passion for many. And at the heart of it is Coach Matty Klein, a certified IPTPA Level 2 and PPR Teaching Pro, who specializes in guiding beginners and intermediates to find their footing in the game. Whether you’re looking to enjoy casual games or dreaming of turning pro, Coach Matty has the wisdom and experience to get you there. In this episode of Pickleball Minute, Matty sits down with Ariana, a young pickleball enthusiast, to discuss the journey from novice to professional and how players of all levels can fall in love with the game.

1. What sparked Ariana’s interest in pickleball?
Ariana: “I’ve been practicing my smile and my ‘pro frown.’ Pickleball has this unique spirit – you can be a smiler or a frowner, and I just love that!”

Coach Matty: “It’s great to see such enthusiasm. Whether you’re smiling or frowning on the court, pickleball has room for all.”

2. Does Ariana really want to become a pro pickleball player?
Ariana: “Yes, I do! I want to be a pro.”

Coach Matty: “That’s amazing to hear. Becoming a pro requires a lot of commitment, but having that dream is the first step.”

3. How much time does Ariana dedicate to practice each week?
Ariana: “I practice 96 hours a week.”

Coach Matty (laughing): “That’s a lot of hours! It’s wonderful that you’re putting in the time, but balance is important too.”

4. What kind of drills does Ariana focus on?
Ariana: “I watch the pros on TV.”

Coach Matty: “Watching the pros is good for inspiration, but drilling is essential. It’s how you build muscle memory and fine-tune your skills.”

5. What has Ariana learned from watching the pros?
Ariana: “I’ve learned to slow it down until it’s time to go.”

Coach Matty: “That’s a key lesson. Knowing when to slow down and when to speed up is a crucial part of playing pickleball at a high level.”

6. Does Ariana still want to be a pro pickleball player?
Ariana: “I actually want to be a marine biologist!”

Coach Matty (laughing): “That’s quite a shift! Both careers take hard work and dedication.”

7. What does it really take to become a professional pickleball player?
Coach Matty: “To become a pro, you need to walk onto the court with a high level of play. Tennis players have an advantage because they already have the fundamental skills, but it’s still a lot of work. It’s 80% practice and 20% play. Drilling intensely is the key to handling anything fast, resetting the point, and gaining an advantage by keeping your opponent off-balance or in a tough position.”

In-Depth Summary:
In this engaging episode of Pickleball Minute, Coach Matty Klein shares the realities of what it takes to go from recreational player to professional. The conversation with Ariana, a bright-eyed and ambitious young player, highlights the importance of practice, focus, and enjoyment in the game. While Ariana dreams of becoming a pro, she candidly admits her passion for marine biology, reminding us that pickleball is as much about enjoying the journey as it is about achieving mastery.

Coach Matty emphasizes that reaching the pro level requires an immense commitment to drilling, with 80% of the process devoted to practice. He explains that experienced tennis players have a head start because many skills in tennis translate to pickleball, but the path to success is still a demanding one. With the right combination of coaching, dedication, and love for the game, anyone can improve their skills—whether they’re looking to dominate the courts or simply enjoy the game socially.

This episode serves as a reminder that while chasing professional dreams is admirable, the love of the game and the community that comes with it are just as valuable.

Sunday, September 8, 2024

Interview with Dave Gibson - Walla Walla Mr. Pickleball

A Conversation with Dave Gibson: Pickleball Passion and Community Growth

From Port Townsend to Walla Walla, Dave Gibson Shares Insights on Pickleball, Community Spirit, and the Wooden Boat Festival

In this engaging Q&A session, Dave Gibson shares his experiences attending the Port Townsend Wooden Boat Festival and playing pickleball at the Mountain View Pickleball Courts. Interviewed by Hope Borsato and Jack Olmsted, Dave talks about his favorite spots in Port Townsend, the joy of playing pickleball in the area, and his involvement in growing the sport in Walla Walla, Washington. He also provides valuable advice for small communities looking to raise funds for new pickleball courts. This interview provides a fascinating glimpse into the intersection of community, sport, and local events.

Q1: How many times a year do you come to Port Townsend? 0:10

Usually, I come just once a year, Jack, for the Wooden Boat Festival. We always play pickleball here, and it’s really fun meeting people in your community. We really appreciate how gracious and open everyone is here—thank you.

Q2: How many years have you been coming to the Wooden Boat Festival? 0:28

This is our 23rd year coming to the Wooden Boat Festival. You guys have such a great energy here, it's always a highlight of the year.

Q3: What’s your favorite place to eat in Port Townsend? 0:40

Well, we’re kind of food wackos, so we cook a lot of our own meals. But, when we do eat out, we love the Thai restaurant—One Two Three. It’s a lot of food for the money, great customer service, and excellent cooking. We also enjoy the Pizza downtown, but the Thai food is probably our favorite.

Q4: Tell us about your travel trailer. 1:13

Yeah, we have a little travel trailer that we pull around. Right now, it’s parked at Point Hudson. The improvements to the jetties out there are really nice; it’s so protected now. Plus, having the Tally Ho boat here, which is world-famous, is amazing.

Q5: Your wife was taking a knot-tying class while you were playing pickleball. Can you tell us more about that? 1:46

Yes, she took a knot-tying class taught by a Norwegian, which was a special connection since my wife is Norwegian. It was all done by hand, and there were kids helping spin the ropes—it was a real family event, and great fun for everyone involved.

Q6: How is the pickleball play in Port Townsend? 2:08

The pickleball play here in Port Townsend is top-notch! You guys are great. There’s a lot of depth among the players, making it easy to get a good game going.

Q7: Yesterday, you played with some players from New York. What was that like? 2:25

Yes, I played with two guys from New York who were visiting for the first time. They had a great time at the Wooden Boat Festival and enjoyed playing pickleball here. It’s great how your community reaches out to others, and the festival's focus on women and boats this year was fantastic.

Q8: What were your main takeaways from the Wooden Boat Show this year? 3:13

My biggest takeaway is how organized you guys are. With so many volunteers, there’s a lot of support. If anything goes wrong—whether it's with the boats or physically—there’s always someone there to help. You’ve got the event wired tight.

Q9: Can you talk about your involvement in getting pickleball courts built at Pioneer Park in Walla Walla? 3:38

Back in the day, we partnered with the city to turn two old tennis courts into pickleball courts. We raised $80,000 in six months. Recently, we raised $300,000 privately, and the city got a government grant for $1 million. Now, we have eight courts, and it’s become a hub for kids from high schools and the community college. The synergy between the community and the courts is amazing.

Q10: What are some key points to help small communities raise money for pickleball courts? 5:28

The key is to get a core group of committed players who are willing to contribute. When you approach others for money, they’ll want to know how much skin you have in the game. We also had people who weren’t shy about asking for money, which made a big difference. Running articles in the local paper and getting general interest about how pickleball benefits the community really helped too.

Q11: How do you pitch pickleball to the public, especially those who might not take it seriously? 8:09

When we encounter resistance, we simply invite them to come out and play. Once people play, they usually get hooked. It’s such an accessible and fun game that it speaks for itself.

Q12: You’re known for having smooth stroke mechanics. Can you share some insight into your technique? 9:33

I just try to focus on fluidity and keeping my movements efficient. Staying relaxed is key—if you’re too tense, your strokes won’t be as smooth. It’s all about consistency and practice. (Watch 6 Games With Dave At the Port Townsend Mountain View Pickleball Courts)

Q13: What’s next on your calendar? 10:20

We’re lucky enough to have a small condo in Kona, Hawaii. A friend from Walla Walla once told me, "Dave, you’ve got to come to Kona if you love pickleball." Now, there are 20 courts right below us, all run by Hawaiians. It's such a great atmosphere, and we usually play there throughout the winter.

Interestingly, many of the Hawaiian players are starting to visit here. For example, Richard, the pro at our place in Kona, recently played in the Seattle tournament. It's like this cross-pollination where people meet you, enjoy your company, and want to stay connected. They appreciate how welcoming our facility is, and that just keeps the relationships going.

You guys are amazing ambassadors of the sport—friendly and inclusive. When I come to the park, you always say, "Come on down and play!" and I know it’s going to be a great time. You’re doing it right, making everyone feel welcome. Keep up the good work!

Q14: Sharlene Shiroma 11:48

Thank you so much! It was great meeting you. We had a lot of fun today.

Funny enough, Sharlene Shiroma was one of the first people who invited me to play pickleball when I came to Walla Walla about six years ago. I didn’t even know you guys had pickleball here, but she welcomed me right in. It’s amazing how the pickleball community is so inviting.

Anyway, thanks again. It’s been a pleasure!

Summary:

In this interview, Dave Gibson offers an insightful look at the growth of pickleball and how strong community efforts have played a key role in developing the sport, both in Port Townsend and Walla Walla. Visiting Port Townsend annually for the Wooden Boat Festival, Dave shares his love for the town and its vibrant pickleball scene. He highlights how organizing pickleball events can bring people together, not just as players but as a community. Dave also reflects on his involvement in building pickleball courts in Walla Walla, emphasizing the importance of strong leadership, committed players, and a willingness to ask for support. For communities looking to build courts and expand the sport, he advises forming a dedicated group, securing financial contributions, and spreading the word through local media. Finally, Dave encourages pickleball enthusiasts to be inclusive, inviting people who may be skeptical of the sport to experience its fast-paced, fun nature firsthand.

Through his storytelling, it’s clear that Dave sees pickleball as more than just a game—it's a way to build connections and strengthen community ties. His passion for both the Wooden Boat Festival and pickleball shines through as he acknowledges the positive energy and organization in Port Townsend while offering practical advice for communities hoping to replicate Walla Walla's pickleball success.

Wednesday, September 4, 2024

7 Reasons Your Serve Has No Power (& How to Serve Harder)

Why Your Pickleball Serve Lacks Power — And How to Fix It

A step-by-step guide to unlocking explosive power in your serve, from stance to breathwork

In pickleball, having a powerful serve can give you a significant edge on the court. But if your serves lack that extra punch, you're likely making one or more common mistakes. Kyle Koszuta, ThatPickleballGuy, breaks down seven specific issues that might be holding you back and offers simple but effective fixes. This guide will walk you through those problems and help you develop a more powerful serve. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned player, mastering these techniques will elevate your game.

1. Standing Too Tall and Too Narrow (0:15)
Many players struggle with their serve because they stand too tall and keep their feet too close together. This position makes it hard to generate power and maintain balance.

Fix: Widen your stance to create more stability.
Keep your feet shoulder-width apart for better balance.
Lower your body slightly to engage your legs for more force.
Consider setting your dominant foot at a diagonal to the baseline, giving you a solid foundation to generate power.

2. No Weight Transfer (0:56)
If you stay flat-footed during your serve, you're robbing yourself of power. Proper weight transfer from back to front can dramatically improve your serve.

Fix: Start with your weight on your back foot.
Shift your weight forward as you swing.
Think of your body as a coiled spring — uncoil as you strike the ball.
Imagine a boxer punching; power comes from the transfer of weight forward.

3. Stiff Arm (2:36)
A stiff arm is a common reason why serves lack power. If your arm isn't loose and fluid, you'll struggle to hit the ball with enough speed.

Fix: Relax your arm before the serve.
Take a deep breath to help loosen up.
Keep a relaxed grip on the paddle to allow for a more fluid swing.
Focus on accelerating through the ball, not guiding it.

4. Neutral Wrist (5:17)
A neutral or rigid wrist won't give you the spin or snap needed for a powerful serve. Flexibility in your wrist is key to generating more force.

Fix: Loosen your wrist to allow for a whipping motion as you make contact.
Practice the "wrist lag" technique, where the paddle lags behind your arm before snapping through the ball.
Imagine your wrist flicking the paddle at the last moment to add spin and power.

5. Jam Toss (6:55)
A poor toss can jam your motion, reducing your serve’s effectiveness. If your arm is bent or your toss is too low, your kinetic chain is interrupted.

Fix: Extend your arm fully when tossing the ball.
Keep your arm at about a 45-degree angle from your body to prevent jamming.
For consistency, practice a slight toss instead of a drop, depending on tournament rules.
Make sure the toss is in line with where you want to strike the ball.

6. No Explosive Breath (8:43)
Your breath can impact your power. Players who don’t use explosive breathing during their serve often miss out on the kinetic energy that comes from exhalation.

Fix: Inhale deeply before your serve, then exhale forcefully as you strike the ball.
This breath technique helps synchronize your body, adding force to your swing.
Visualize a tennis player grunting as they hit — that exhalation contributes to power.

7. Fear (9:07)
Fear of failure can make you hesitant, which in turn causes a lack of power in your serve. If you're too focused on getting the ball in play, you won't fully commit to hitting it hard.

Fix: Shift your mindset from fear to confidence.
Practice serves without worrying about making mistakes; focus on consistency later.
Remember that a powerful serve is less likely to be returned effectively, so take the risk and hit harder.

Guide Summary:
To improve the power of your pickleball serve, focus on stance, weight transfer, arm looseness, and wrist flexibility. Start with a wide, grounded stance, transferring your weight efficiently from back to front as you swing. Ensure your arm is relaxed, and practice the wrist lag technique for added spin. A solid toss and explosive breath will help synchronize your body for maximum power, and finally, approach each serve with confidence. With practice, these adjustments will lead to a more formidable serve, setting you up for success in your games.

0:00 Intro 0:15 To Tall To Narrow 0:56 No Weight Transfer 2:36 Stiff Arm 5:17 Neutral Wrist 6:55 Jam Toss 8:43 No Explosive Breatj 9:07 Fear

Tuesday, September 3, 2024

Tanner Tomassi: How to Hit a Backhand Flick in Pickleball Like the Pros!

Mastering the Backhand Flick in Pickleball
Step-by-Step Guide to Perfecting Your Backhand Flick Like the Pros

Introduction

The backhand flick is a game-changing shot in pickleball that can give you the upper hand in a rally, especially when executed with precision. In this guide, Tanner Tomassi takes us through the nuances of the backhand flick, from its form to effective drills that will help you master this technique. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced player looking to sharpen your skills, this guide offers clear instructions and practical tips to elevate your game.

1. Why it's Effective (0:25)

The flick shot initiates the firefight, giving you an inherent advantage.
Allows you to attack balls below the net, increasing pressure on your opponent.
This shot is ideal for speeding up balls from lower positions, forcing your opponent into defensive play.

2. Form of the Flick (0:46)

Footwork: Avoid squaring your feet; turn them outward to utilize the kinetic chain.
Setup: Position your paddle down with the elbow up to engage the entire arm.
Wrist Movement: Mimic throwing a frisbee upside down for proper flick technique.
Execution: Combine footwork, paddle positioning, and wrist movement for a compact, powerful flick.

3. Drill 1 - 'Poke' Flick (2:25)

Step 1: Begin with a simple dink and poke with a flat paddle, avoiding spin.
Step 2: Practice reloading your paddle after each poke to prepare for the next ball.
Step 3: Gradually lower the feed, maintaining compact movements and a controlled paddle position.

4. Drill 2 - Full Flick Mastery (3:54)

Step 1: Incorporate the entire flick motion into your practice.
Step 2: Focus on directing the ball downward towards your opponent’s feet.
Step 3: Aim to make your opponent take the ball low, setting yourself up for an easier next shot.

5. Ready Position (Crucial Skill) (4:31)

Offensive Readiness: Anticipate your opponent's weak return by being in an offensive stance right after your dink.
Defensive Adjustment: Transition smoothly between offensive and defensive positions depending on your opponent's shot.
Pro Tip: Watch top players like Dylan Frasier for examples of excellent ready position and movement.

6. Other Scenarios To Use The Flick (6:31)

Third Shot Drops: Use the flick to apply pressure when your opponent attempts a third-shot drop.
Resets: Even low resets can be attacked with the flick, keeping your opponent off balance.
Attacking from Below the Net: Flick from a lower position to add pace and make it difficult for your opponent to counter.

7. Outro (7:57)

Tanner wraps up by encouraging viewers to continue practicing and refining their flick. He suggests watching his live breakdowns for more insights into advanced matchplay strategies.

8. YouTube Comments

Engage with Tanner: Tanner often interacts with viewers in the comments, providing additional tips and answering questions.
Community Feedback: See how others are implementing the flick in their games and share your own experiences.

Guide Summary

Mastering the backhand flick can significantly enhance your pickleball game by allowing you to control rallies and keep your opponents on their toes. By following Tanner Tomassi's detailed instructions and regularly practicing the drills provided, you can develop a powerful flick that will become a reliable weapon in your arsenal. Keep refining your form, maintain a strong ready position, and don't forget to experiment with the flick in various scenarios to discover its full potential. Happy playing!

Timestamps 0:00 Intro 0:25 Why it's Effective 0:46 Form of the Flick 2:25 Drill 1 - 'Poke' Flick 3:54 Drill 2 - Full Flick Mastery 4:31 Ready Position (Crucial Skill) 6:31 Other Scenarios To Use The Flick 7:57 Outro

Backhand Flick Mastery Quiz

1. What is one of the key benefits of using the backhand flick in pickleball?

a) It slows down the pace of the game
b) It allows you to attack balls below the net
c) It is primarily a defensive shot
d) It reduces the risk of making errors

2. When setting up for the flick, where should your paddle be positioned?

a) Paddle down, elbow up
b) Paddle up, elbow down
c) Paddle level with the net
d) Paddle parallel to the floor

3. What part of the body should be engaged to generate power during the flick?

a) Wrists only
b) Legs only
c) Entire kinetic chain, including obliques
d) Shoulders only

4. Which motion is the wrist movement of the flick compared to?

a) Throwing a baseball
b) Swinging a golf club
c) Throwing a frisbee upside down
d) Hitting a tennis serve

5. What is the primary focus of the 'Poke' Flick drill?

a) Generating topspin
b) Keeping the paddle still
c) Poking with a flat paddle without spin
d) Hitting the ball with a lot of spin

6. In the 'Poke' Flick drill, what should you do immediately after poking the ball?

a) Reset your paddle for the next ball
b) Wait for your opponent to return the ball
c) Swing wildly to generate power
d) Focus on foot placement

7. During the full flick drill, where should you aim to direct the ball?

a) High over the net
b) At the opponent's feet
c) To the sidelines
d) Deep in the opponent's court

8. What is a crucial skill to have when performing the flick during a rally?

a) Standing still after the shot
b) Being in the correct ready position
c) Hitting the ball as hard as possible
d) Ignoring the opponent's position

9. When should you anticipate being in an offensive ready position?

a) After your opponent hits a strong shot
b) Right after you hit a dink
c) During the opponent's serve
d) When your opponent is at the baseline

10. How does the backhand flick help when dealing with third-shot drops?

a) It makes it easier to lob
b) It allows you to apply pressure on the opponent
c) It forces you to move backward
d) It is ineffective against third-shot drops

11. Why is it important to keep the flick motion compact?

a) To reduce the chance of hitting the net
b) To make the shot more deceptive
c) To generate more power and control
d) To confuse the opponent

12. What common mistake do players make when learning the flick?

a) Using too much topspin
b) Keeping the paddle too low
c) Relying solely on wrist movement
d) Standing too close to the net

13. When practicing the flick, what should be your focus when receiving a lower ball?

a) Hitting it as high as possible
b) Keeping the paddle still
c) Flicking from a lower position while maintaining control
d) Letting the ball drop before hitting

14. Which professional pickleball player does Tanner suggest watching to improve your ready position and movement?

a) Ben Johns
b) Tyson McGuffin
c) Dylan Frasier
d) Zane Navratil

15. How can the backhand flick be used during a rally, other than at the kitchen line?

a) Only when at the baseline
b) During third-shot drops and resets
c) It should only be used for serves
d) It is not effective outside of the kitchen line

Answer Key:

2024 PPA Las Vegas Pickleball Cup - Most Viewed

Men’s Doubles Quarter Finals: (2) Ben Johns/Collin Johns vs (6) Christian Alshon/Riley Newman (50K+)

Mixed Doubles Championship: (1) Anna Leigh Waters/Ben Johns v (6) Catherine Parenteau/Riley Newman (35K+)

Mixed Doubles Round of 16: (1) Anna Leigh Waters/Ben Johns v (13) Meghan Dizon/Andrei Daescu (33K+)

2024 PPA Las Vegas Playlist

Saturday, August 31, 2024

Diadem Presents | The Bill Forray Story

A Game of Healing: Bill Forray's Pickleball Journey Through Love and Loss

How a Community Rallied Around a Grieving Husband and Helped Him Find Solace on the Pickleball Court

When life hands us loss, we often find comfort in the familiar. For Bill Forray, that familiar place was the pickleball court. After the heartbreaking loss of his beloved wife, Jill, Bill was left with a void that seemed impossible to fill. Their bond had been the kind others only dream of, one built on love, mutual respect, and a shared passion for sports. As Bill faced the daunting challenge of moving forward without Jill by his side, it was the local pickleball community that stepped in, offering support, camaraderie, and a pathway to healing.

In this compelling story, we explore how the sport of pickleball—and the people who play it—became a lifeline for Bill during his darkest days. From the outpouring of love during Jill’s illness to the countless matches that have since helped Bill rediscover joy, this is a tale of resilience, community, and the enduring power of love.

Finding Love Through Sport

Bill and Jill Forray’s love story began on the tennis courts of New York. A casual conversation about movies blossomed into a lifelong partnership filled with shared interests and mutual respect. Both were avid athletes, and their bond was strengthened by their love for sports. Whether it was a game of tennis or a leisurely round of golf, Bill and Jill were inseparable. It was this shared passion that eventually led them to the sunny courts of Florida, where they discovered a new sport that would change their lives: pickleball.

A New Chapter in Florida

In 2017, Bill and Jill took up pickleball, quickly becoming familiar faces at the Delray Tennis Center. Their love for the game mirrored their love for each other—strong, enduring, and full of joy. But as life often does, it threw them an unexpected curveball. In December 2019, Jill was diagnosed with leukemia, and their lives were turned upside down.

For 21 months, Bill stood by Jill’s side as she bravely battled her illness. During this time, pickleball took a backseat as Bill focused on caring for the love of his life. Despite the challenges, the couple managed to return to the courts for a brief period, finding solace in the game they both adored. However, Jill’s health eventually declined, and on a fateful day in July, she passed away, leaving Bill to navigate life without his cherished partner.

The Power of Community

The loss of Jill was devastating for Bill, but he soon discovered that he wasn’t alone. The pickleball community, which had become an integral part of their lives, rallied around him in his time of need. Friends who had once cheered them on during matches now offered support in ways that went beyond the court. From organizing fundraisers to help with Jill’s medical expenses to simply being there for Bill as he grieved, the community’s kindness was boundless.

Bill was deeply moved by the outpouring of love and support. He often reflected on how fortunate Jill had been to experience such overwhelming care from their friends. “Most people don’t find out how loved they are until after they’re gone,” Bill would say. “Jill was still here, and she got to see how much she was cherished by everyone around her.”

Healing Through Pickleball

In the months following Jill’s passing, Bill found himself drawn back to the pickleball court. What started as a way to stay active soon became a crucial part of his healing process. Initially, Bill would play alone during the quiet hours at the Delray Tennis Center, using the game as a form of therapy. But as time went on, he began to reconnect with the community that had once supported him and Jill so fervently.

Pickleball became more than just a game for Bill—it was a lifeline. The sport provided him with a sense of purpose and a way to honor Jill’s memory. With every serve, every volley, and every match, Bill felt closer to the woman he had lost. The friendships he forged on the court also played a significant role in his recovery. Through pickleball, Bill met people who not only shared his love for the game but also understood the pain of loss. Together, they formed a tight-knit community that helped each other navigate life’s challenges.

A Legacy of Love

Bill’s journey through grief has been marked by both heartache and healing. While the loss of Jill will always leave a void in his life, the support of the pickleball community has allowed him to move forward with strength and grace. His story is a testament to the power of community and the role that sports can play in helping us heal.

In honor of Jill, Bill continues to play pickleball, not just as a pastime but as a way to keep her memory alive. He participates in tournaments, often dedicating his matches to the love of his life. In 2023, Bill and his partner won two bronze medals at the US Open Pickleball Championships, a victory he attributes to Jill’s guiding spirit. The following year, they returned to win two gold medals, a feat that seemed almost miraculous to Bill. “I know Jill was watching over us,” he said, his voice filled with emotion.

Conclusion: The Best Version of Himself

Today, Bill Forray is a man transformed. Once a quiet, reserved individual, he has blossomed into a vibrant and outgoing member of the pickleball community. His journey from loss to recovery is a reminder that, even in our darkest moments, we can find light through the support of others.

Bill credits pickleball not only for helping him cope with Jill’s passing but also for bringing out a side of him that he never knew existed. Surrounded by friends who have become like family, Bill believes that he is now the best version of himself—a version that Jill would be proud of.

In the end, Bill’s story is about more than just loss and recovery; it’s about the enduring power of love and the strength found in community. As Bill continues to play pickleball, he does so with a heart full of gratitude, knowing that every match is a tribute to the woman who will always be by his side in spirit.

Friday, August 30, 2024

Selkirk RIPS the PPA a New One 😱🤣 | This Pickleball Life (Ep 50)

0:00 Intro/Themesong
3:12 The Breakdown/Tres Palapas/Jeremy Lin
12:24 Paddle Talk
18:02 Paddle Certification
22:23 Our Reactions to the Selkirk Letter
25:18 Gamma 40% off Sale
25:45 PickleNOTroll
27:29 Ketones: the building blocks of energy
30:24 USAP’s New Testing
34:00 Is it Joola/UPA vs the world?
38:02 Bogeys in Pickleball?
39:46 In this episode of This Pickleball Life (Ep 50), the hosts discuss the importance of focusing on solidifying your fundamentals in pickleball rather than constantly striving to increase your skill ceiling. The conversation emphasizes that players should concentrate on reducing errors and mastering basic skills, like consistently getting the ball over the net, rather than attempting flashy or risky shots. By adopting a mindset that prioritizes consistency—such as aiming for higher, shallower dinks during warm-ups—players can gradually improve their overall game. The key takeaway is that simple mental shifts, such as focusing on reliable shots over perfection, can lead to a higher skill level naturally.