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- Stop Hitting Balls That Are Going Out 🏓
Stop Hitting Balls That Are Going Out 🏓
The simple leave-or-block decision that saves free points
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Hey PICKLEBACKCLUB,
You know that juicy shoulder-high ball that practically begs to be smacked? Sometimes the smartest shot is the one you never hit. Today we're learning when to let an opponent's speed-up fly. 🏓
First, read the flight—not the temptation
At the kitchen line, a hard ball rising above your comfortable contact zone may be headed long. Instead of swinging reflexively, watch its height, pace and trajectory. A ball still climbing near your shoulder is a candidate to leave; one dipping toward your body may need a block.
Takeaway: shoulder height is a clue, not an automatic out call. Where you're standing, how fast the ball travels and whether it has topspin all matter.
Three cues before you decide
1. Check the launch. If your opponent attacks from well below net height with a big upward swing, be ready for a ball that carries long.
2. Keep your paddle ready. Make the decision late enough to read the ball, but early enough to protect yourself if it drops. Don't turn away or gamble on a ball aimed at your body.
3. Say “leave” clearly. In doubles, a quick call helps your partner avoid swatting a ball that was heading out. Agree on the call before play.
🎯 The 20-ball leave-or-block challenge
Have a partner feed 20 controlled speed-ups from across the net: 10 aimed to land in and 10 deliberately long, mixed in an unpredictable order. Start slowly and increase pace only when comfortable.
For each feed, choose leave or block. Score one point for a correct decision, whether or not the block lands in. Aim for 15/20, then repeat next week and compare. Keep every feed at a safe, manageable speed.
One rule reminder: a ball is out only when it lands beyond the boundary without touching the line. Don't celebrate early—watch it land. USA Pickleball's official rules summary is a handy refresher.
The next time a ball comes screaming toward your shoulders, remember: you don't have to win every exchange with your paddle. Sometimes gravity is your doubles partner.
See you on the court,
The PICKLEBACKCLUB Team 🥒
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