Primetime Pickleball Doubles Strategy

If you want to take your Pickleball game to the next level, you need to learn some effective doubles strategies that will help you win more points and matches. In this article, we will introduce you to the Dominating Doubles System, a comprehensive course created by Primetime Pickleball that will teach you everything you need to know about playing smart and successful doubles pickleball. We will also share some common pickleball mistakes, drills and tips that will improve your skills and confidence on the court.

The Dominating Doubles System

The Dominating Doubles System is a course designed by Primetime Pickleball, a leading online platform that provides high-quality pickleball instruction and coaching. The course consists of 14 modules that cover all aspects of doubles pickleball, from player roles and responsibilities, to team formations, court coverage, serving, returning, the 3rd shot, transitioning to the NVZ, dinking, attacking, defending, lobbing, stacking, poaching, and specialty shots. The course is taught by Jordan Briones, a professional pickleball instructor and former tennis coach, who has helped thousands of players improve their game and achieve their pickleball goals.

What is the Dominating Doubles System?

The Dominating Doubles System is a step-by-step video course that will show you how to play doubles pickleball in the most effective and efficient way possible. The course will teach you how to:

• Understand your player role and how to work with your partner as a team
• Choose the best team formation for your skill level and style of play
• Position yourself on the court to cover the most space and create the most opportunities
• Serve with power, accuracy, and variety to put pressure on your opponents
• Return with consistency, depth, and angle to neutralize your opponents’ serve
• Hit the 3rd shot with confidence and control to transition to the net
• Move to the NVZ safely and smoothly without getting attacked or leaving gaps
• Dink with finesse and strategy to set up your attack or force your opponents’ errors
• Attack with aggression and precision to finish points at the net
• Defend with composure and skill to counter your opponents’ attacks
• Lob with timing and placement to disrupt your opponents’ rhythm and position
• Stack with coordination and communication to optimize your court coverage and shot selection
• Poach with anticipation and execution to surprise your opponents and take over the point
• Hit specialty shots with flair and creativity to add more weapons to your arsenal

Why is the Dominating Doubles System so effective?

The Dominating Doubles System is so effective because it is based on proven principles and strategies that have been tested and refined by Jordan Briones and other top pickleball players and coaches.

The course is not just a collection of random tips and tricks, but a coherent and comprehensive system that will help you master the fundamentals and nuances of doubles pickleball. The course is also very practical and easy to follow, as it provides clear explanations, demonstrations, and drills for each topic.

The course is suitable for players of all levels, from beginners to advanced, as it offers different options and variations for each skill and situation. The course is also very flexible and adaptable, as it allows you to customize your learning experience according to your own pace, preferences, and goals.

Who is the Dominating Doubles System for?

The Dominating Doubles System is for anyone who wants to improve their doubles pickleball game and have more fun and success on the court. Whether you are a casual player who wants to learn the basics, a competitive player who wants to sharpen your skills, or a tournament player who wants to reach your peak performance, the Dominating Doubles System will help you achieve your pickleball dreams.

The course is also for anyone who wants to learn from one of the best pickleball instructors in the world, Jordan Briones, who has a wealth of knowledge and experience in teaching and playing pickleball. The course is also for anyone who wants to join a community of like-minded pickleball enthusiasts who share their passion and support for the sport.

Primetime Pickleball Doubles Strategies

In this section, we will give you a brief overview of each module of the Dominating Doubles System and some of the key points and tips that you will learn from them.

Module 1: Player Roles & Responsibilities

In this module, you will learn about the two main player roles in doubles pickleball: the Terminator and the Workhorse. The Terminator is the player who is more aggressive and offensive, who likes to attack and finish points at the net.

The Workhorse is the player who is more consistent and defensive, who likes to keep the ball in play and set up the Terminator. You will learn how to determine your player role based on your strengths and weaknesses, and how to work with your partner to complement each other’s roles. You will also learn how to switch roles when necessary, depending on the situation and the score.

Module 2: Team Formations

In this module, you will learn about the three main team formations in doubles pickleball: the Stack, the Split, and the Diamond. The Stack is when both players are on the same side of the court, either on the right or on the left. The Split is when one player is on the right and the other is on the left, either in front or behind each other.

The Diamond is when one player is at the net and the other is at the baseline, forming a diamond shape. You will learn how to choose the right team formation for you and your partner based on your player roles, skill levels, and style of play. You will also learn how to switch formations when necessary, depending on the situation and the score.

Module 3: Court Coverage

In this module, you will learn how to position yourself on the court to cover the most space and create the most opportunities. You will learn the basic principles of court coverage, such as:

• Stay close to the center line and the NVZ line
• Move as a unit with your partner
• Adjust your position according to the ball and your opponents
• Communicate with your partner

You will also learn some advanced techniques of court coverage, such as:

• Pinch the middle and cover the line
• Anticipate and react to your opponents’ shots
• Use angles and footwork to create space and time
• Use body language and eye contact to signal your intentions

Module 4: Serving

In this module, you will learn how to serve with power, accuracy, and variety to put pressure on your opponents. You will learn the basic elements of a good serve, such as:

• Grip the paddle loosely and comfortably
• Stand behind the baseline and face the target
• Toss the ball low and in front of you
• Swing the paddle smoothly and follow through

You will also learn some different types of serves, such as:

• The deep serve, which lands near the baseline and pushes your opponents back
• The wide serve, which lands near the sideline and forces your opponents to move laterally
• The angled serve, which lands near the corner and creates a sharp angle
• The spin serve, which adds topspin or sidespin to the ball and makes it bounce unpredictably

Module 5: Returning

In this module, you will learn how to return with consistency, depth, and angle to neutralize your opponents’ serve. You will learn the basic elements of a good return, such as:

• Position yourself near the baseline and face the server
• Watch the ball and the server’s paddle
• Step forward and swing the paddle low to high
• Aim for the center of the court and the baseline

You will also learn some different types of returns, such as:

• The deep return, which lands near the baseline and prevents your opponents from moving to the net
• The wide return, which lands near the sideline and creates a cross-court angle
• The angled return, which lands near the corner and creates a sharp angle
• The drop return, which lands near the NVZ and forces your opponents to hit a 3rd shot

Module 6: The 3rd Shot

In this module, you will learn how to hit the 3rd shot with confidence and control to transition to the net. You will learn what the 3rd shot is and why it is the most important shot in pickleball. You will also learn some different types of 3rd shots, such as:

• The drop shot, which is a soft and high shot that lands near the NVZ and allows you to move to the net
• The dink, which is a soft and low shot that lands near the NVZ and initiates a dinking rally
• The drive, which is a hard and flat shot that lands near the baseline and puts pressure on your opponents
• The lob, which is a high and deep shot that lands near the baseline and surprises your opponents

Module 7: Transitioning To The NVZ

In this module, you will learn how to transition to the NVZ safely and smoothly without getting attacked or leaving gaps. You will learn the basic principles of transitioning to the NVZ, such as:

• Hit a good 3rd shot that gives you time and space to move forward
• Move as a unit with your partner
• Split-step and get ready for the next shot
• Stay behind the NVZ line until the ball bounces

You will also learn some advanced techniques of transitioning to the NVZ, such as:

• Use the split-step to change direction and cover the court
• Use the volley to intercept and redirect the ball
• Use the Erne to jump into the NVZ and surprise your opponents

Module 8: Dinking

In this module, you will learn how to dink with finesse and strategy to set up your attack or force your opponents’ errors. You will learn the basic elements of a good dink, such as:

• Grip the paddle lightly and softly
• Position yourself close to the NVZ line and face the ball
• Use a short and compact swing with a slight upward motion
• Aim for the center of the paddle and the center of the ball
• Hit the ball low and over the net

You will also learn some different types of dinks, such as:

• The deep dink, which lands near the NVZ line and pushes your opponents back
• The short dink, which lands near the net and forces your opponents to reach forward
• The soft dink, which has little pace and spin and makes the ball bounce low
• The hard dink, which has more pace and spin and makes the ball bounce high

Module 9: Attacking

In this module, you will learn how to attack with aggression and precision to finish points at the net. You will learn when to attack, such as:

• When you see a high or weak ball
• When you see an opening or a gap
• When you see your opponents out of position or off balance
• When you see an opportunity to change the momentum or the score

You will also learn how to attack from different positions, such as:

• From the backcourt, using a drive, a lob, or a drop volley
• From the NVZ, using a volley, a smash, or a drop volley
• From the air, using an Erne, a jump smash, or a drop volley

Module 10: Defending

In this module, you will learn how to defend against attacks with composure and skill. You will learn how to defend against different types of attacks, such as:

• Against a drive, using a block volley, a lob, or a counter drive
• Against a lob, using an overhead smash, a lob, or a drop shot
• Against a drive, using a block volley, a lob, or a counter drive

You will also learn some tips and tricks to improve your defense, such as:

• Stay calm and focused
• Keep your paddle up and ready
• Use your body and paddle to cover the court
• Use your feet and knees to absorb the impact
• Use your wrist and paddle to control the direction and pace

Module 11: Lobbing

In this module, you will learn how to lob with timing and placement to disrupt your opponents’ rhythm and position. You will learn when to lob, such as:

• When you are in trouble or under pressure
• When you want to change the pace or the angle
• When you want to create space or time
• When you want to surprise or frustrate your opponents

You will also learn how to lob from different positions, such as:

• From the backcourt, using a high lob, a deep lob, or a slice lob
• From the NVZ, using a high lob, a deep lob, or a drop lob
• From the air, using a jump lob, a smash lob, or a drop lob

Module 12: Stacking

In this module, you will learn what stacking is and how to stack effectively. Stacking is when both players switch sides of the court after serving or returning, in order to maintain their preferred positions or roles. You will learn when to stack, such as:

• When you want to keep your forehand or backhand in the middle
• When you want to keep your Terminator or Workhorse in the front
• When you want to avoid your weaker side or shot
• When you want to confuse or challenge your opponents

You will also learn how to stack with coordination and communication, such as:

• Use a signal or a code to indicate your intention to stack
• Use a pattern or a system to switch sides smoothly
• Use a call or a gesture to confirm your position and shot

Module 13: Poaching

In this module, you will learn what poaching is and how to poach effectively. Poaching is when one player crosses the center line and takes the ball that is intended for their partner, in order to surprise and take over the point. You will learn when to poach, such as:

• When you see a high or weak ball
• When you see an opening or a gap
• When you see your partner in trouble or out of position
• When you see an opportunity to change the momentum or the score

You will also learn how to poach with anticipation and execution, such as:

• Watch the ball and your opponents
• Move quickly and decisively
• Hit the ball with authority and accuracy
• Cover the court and protect your partner

Module 14: Specialty Shots

In this module, you will learn how to hit some specialty shots with flair and creativity to add more weapons to your arsenal. You will learn some different types of specialty shots, such as:

• The block volley, which is a soft and short volley that drops near the net
• The overhead smash, which is a powerful and downward smash that ends the point
• The drop volley, which is a soft and high volley that lands near the NVZ
• The soft drive, which is a hard and low drive that skims the net

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Common Pickleball Mistakes

In this section, we will share some common pickleball mistakes that many players make and how to fix them. We will focus on two areas: basic pickleball strategy mistakes and return mistakes.

Top 9 Basic Pickleball Strategy Mistakes & How To Fix Them

1. Hitting the ball too hard or too soft. Many players tend to hit the ball either too hard or too soft, depending on their mood, skill level, or opponent. Hitting the ball too hard can result in errors, out balls, or easy returns. Hitting the ball too soft can result in weak shots, short balls, or easy attacks. The fix is to hit the ball with the right pace and spin for each situation, using the principle of percentage shot. A percentage shot is a shot that has a high probability of going in and a low probability of being returned. For example, a deep serve, a drop shot, a dink, or a volley are all percentage shots, if executed correctly.
2. Hitting the ball to the wrong target. Many players tend to hit the ball to the wrong target, depending on their habit, preference, or opponent. Hitting the ball to the wrong target can result in missed opportunities, lost points, or counterattacks. The fix is to hit the ball to the right target for each situation, using the principle of shot selection. Shot selection is the process of choosing the best shot for each situation, based on the factors of ball, court, opponent, and score. For example, a deep serve, a wide return, a drop shot, or a volley are all good shots, if aimed at the right target.
3. Hitting the ball to the wrong person. Many players tend to hit the ball to the wrong person, depending on their instinct, emotion, or opponent. Hitting the ball to the wrong person can result in wasted chances, lost points, or counterattacks. The fix is to hit the ball to the right person for each situation, using the principle of person selection. Person selection is the process of choosing the best person to hit the ball to, based on the factors of skill, role, position, and reaction. For example, a deep serve, a wide return, a drop shot, or a volley are all good shots, if directed at the right person.
4. Hitting the ball at the wrong time. Many players tend to hit the ball at the wrong time, depending on their impulse, pressure, or opponent. Hitting the ball at the wrong time can result in errors, out balls, or easy returns. The fix is to hit the ball at the right time for each situation, using the principle of timing. Timing is the ability to hit the ball at the optimal moment, based on the factors of rhythm, pace, angle, and height. For example, a deep serve, a wide return, a drop shot, or a volley are all good shots, if hit at the right time.
5. Hitting the ball with the wrong paddle face angle. Many players tend to hit the ball with the wrong paddle face angle, depending on their grip, swing, or opponent. Hitting the ball with the wrong paddle face angle can result in errors, out balls, or easy returns. The fix is to hit the ball with the right paddle face angle for each situation, using the principle of paddle face angle. Paddle face angle is the angle of the paddle relative to the ground, the net, and the ball. For example, a deep serve, a wide return, a drop shot, or a volley are all good shots, if hit with the right paddle face angle.
6. Hitting the ball with the wrong paddle head position. Many players tend to hit the ball with the wrong paddle head position, depending on their stance, posture, or opponent. Hitting the ball with the wrong paddle head position can result in errors, out balls, or easy returns. The fix is to hit the ball with the right paddle head position for each situation, using the principle of paddle head position. Paddle head position is the position of the paddle relative to the body, the ball, and the target. For example, a deep serve, a wide return, a drop shot, or a volley are all good shots, if hit with the right paddle head position.
7. Hitting the ball with the wrong paddle head speed. Many players tend to hit the ball with the wrong paddle head speed, depending on their strength, technique, or opponent. Hitting the ball with the wrong paddle head speed can result in errors, out balls, or easy returns. The fix is to hit the ball with the right paddle head speed for each situation, using the principle of paddle head speed. Paddle head speed is the speed of the paddle relative to the ball, the net, and the target. For example, a deep serve, a wide return, a drop shot, or a volley are all good shots, if hit with the right paddle head speed.
8. Hitting the ball with the wrong paddle head path. Many players tend to hit the ball with the wrong paddle head path, depending on their motion, direction, or opponent. Hitting the ball with the wrong paddle head path can result in errors, out balls, or easy returns. The fix is to hit the ball with the right paddle head path for each situation, using the principle of paddle head path. Paddle head path is the path of the paddle relative to the ball, the net, and the target. For example, a deep serve, a wide return, a drop shot, or a volley are all good shots, if hit with the right paddle head path.
9. Hitting the ball with the wrong paddle head shape. Many players tend to hit the ball with the wrong paddle head shape, depending on their style, preference, or opponent. Hitting the ball with the wrong paddle head shape can result in errors, out balls, or easy returns. The fix is to hit the ball with the right paddle head shape for each situation, using the principle of paddle head shape. Paddle head shape is the shape of the paddle relative to the ball, the net, and the target. For example, a deep serve, a wide return, a drop shot, or a volley are all good shots, if hit with the right paddle head shape.

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5 Most Common Pickleball Return Mistakes & How To Fix Them

1. Returning the serve too high or too low. Many players tend to return the serve either too high or too low, depending on their timing, technique, or opponent. Returning the serve too high can result in easy volleys, smashes, or drop volleys. Returning the serve too low can result in net balls, short balls, or easy drop shots. The fix is to return the serve with the right height for each situation, using the principle of height. Height is the height of the ball relative to the net, the NVZ, and the baseline. For example, a deep return, a wide return, an angled return, or a drop return are all good returns, if hit with the right height.
2. Returning the serve too short or too long. Many players tend to return the serve either too short or too long, depending on their pace, spin, or opponent. Returning the serve too short can result in easy 3rd shots, drives, or lobs. Returning the serve too long can result in out balls, errors, or easy drop shots. The fix is to return the serve with the right depth for each situation, using the principle of depth. Depth is the depth of the ball relative to the baseline, the NVZ, and the net. For example, a deep return, a wide return, an angled return, or a drop return are all good returns, if hit with the right depth.
3. Returning the serve too straight or too angled. Many players tend to return the serve either too straight or too angled, depending on their direction, position, or opponent. Returning the serve too straight can result in easy volleys, smashes, or drop volleys. Returning the serve too angled can result in net balls, out balls, or easy drop shots. The fix is to return the serve with the right angle for each situation, using the principle of angle. Angle is the angle of the ball relative to the center line, the sideline, and the corner. For example, a deep return, a wide return, an angled return, or a drop return are all good returns, if hit with the right angle.
4. Returning the serve too flat or too spinny. Many players tend to return the serve either too flat or too spinny, depending on their swing, paddle, or opponent. Returning the serve too flat can result in easy volleys, smashes, or drop volleys. Returning the serve too spinny can result in net balls, errors, or easy drop shots. The fix is to return the serve with the right spin for each situation, using the principle of spin. Spin is the spin of the ball relative to the ground, the net, and the paddle. For example, a deep return, a wide return, an angled return, or a drop return are all good returns, if hit with the right spin.
5. Returning the serve too predictably or too randomly. Many players tend to return the serve either too predictably or too randomly, depending on their habit, strategy, or opponent. Returning the serve too predictably can result in easy anticipation, preparation, or counterattack. Returning the serve too randomly can result in lack of consistency, control, or purpose. The fix is to return the serve with the right variety for each situation, using the principle of variety. Variety is the variety of the ball relative to the serve, the return, and the 3rd shot. For example, a deep return, a wide return, an angled return, or a drop return are all good returns, if hit with the right variety.

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Pickleball Drills and Tips

In this section, we will share some pickleball drills and tips that will help you improve your skills and confidence on the court. We will focus on five areas: doubles pickleball skills, serve technique, dinking, volleys, and net domination.

Top 9 Doubles Pickleball Skills & Drills To Perfect Them

1. Serve. The serve is the first and most important shot in pickleball, as it starts the point and sets the tone for the rally. To improve your serve, you need to practice hitting the ball with power, accuracy, and variety. Here are some drills that will help you improve your serve:
2. Deep serve drill. In this drill, you and your partner stand on opposite sides of the court and take turns serving and returning. The goal is to hit the serve as deep as possible, landing near the baseline. You can use a cone or a marker to indicate the target area. You can also vary the pace and spin of your serve to make it more challenging. The first player to hit 10 deep serves wins the drill.
3. Wide serve drill. In this drill, you and your partner stand on opposite sides of the court and take turns serving and returning. The goal is to hit the serve as wide as possible, landing near the sideline. You can use a cone or a marker to indicate the target area. You can also vary the pace and spin of your serve to make it more challenging. The first player to hit 10 wide serves wins the drill.
4. Angled serve drill. In this drill, you and your partner stand on opposite sides of the court and take turns serving and returning. The goal is to hit the serve as angled as possible, landing near the corner. You can use a cone or a marker to indicate the target area. You can also vary the pace and spin of your serve to make it more challenging. The first player to hit 10 angled serves wins the drill.
5. Spin serve drill. In this drill, you and your partner stand on opposite sides of the court and take turns serving and returning. The goal is to hit the serve with as much spin as possible, making it bounce unpredictably. You can use a topspin, a sidespin, or a backspin serve, depending on your preference and skill level. You can also vary the pace and direction of your serve to make it more challenging. The first player to hit 10 spin serves wins the drill.
6. Return. The return is the second and equally important shot in pickleball, as it neutralizes the serve and sets up the 3rd shot. To improve your return, you need to practice hitting the ball with consistency, depth, and angle. Here are some drills that will help you improve your return:
7. Deep return drill. In this drill, you and your partner stand on opposite sides of the court and take turns serving and returning. The goal is to hit the return as deep as possible, landing near the baseline. You can use a cone or a marker to indicate the target area. You can also vary the pace and spin of your return to make it more challenging. The first player to hit 10 deep returns wins the drill.
8. Wide return drill. In this drill, you and your partner stand on opposite sides of the court and take turns serving and returning. The goal is to hit the return as wide as possible, landing near the sideline. You can use a cone or a marker to indicate the target area. You can also vary the pace and spin of your return to make it more challenging. The first player to hit 10 wide returns wins the drill.
9. Angled return drill. In this drill, you and your partner stand on opposite sides of the court and take turns serving and returning. The goal is to hit the return as angled as possible, landing near the corner. You can use a cone or a marker to indicate the target area. You can also vary the pace and spin of your return to make it more challenging. The first player to hit 10 angled returns wins the drill.
10. Drop return drill. In this drill, you and your partner stand on opposite sides of the court and take turns serving and returning. The goal is to hit the return as a drop shot, landing near the NVZ. You can use a cone or a marker to indicate the target area. You can also vary the pace and spin of your return to make it more challenging. The first player to hit 10 drop returns wins the drill.
11. 3rd Shot. The 3rd shot is the third and crucial shot in pickleball, as it allows you to transition to the net and gain the advantage. To improve your 3rd shot, you need to practice hitting the ball with confidence, control, and variety. Here are some drills that will help you improve your 3rd shot:
12. Drop shot drill. In this drill, you and your partner stand on opposite sides of the court and take turns serving, returning, and hitting the 3rd shot. The goal is to hit the 3rd shot as a drop shot, landing near the NVZ. You can use a cone or a marker to indicate the target area. You can also vary the height, depth, and angle of your drop shot to make it more challenging. The first player to hit 10 drop shots wins the drill.
13. Dink drill. In this drill, you and your partner stand on opposite sides of the court and take turns serving, returning, and hitting the 3rd shot. The goal is to hit the 3rd shot as a dink, landing near the NVZ. You can use a cone or a marker to indicate the target area. You can also vary the pace, spin, and direction of your dink to make it more challenging. The first player to hit 10 dinks wins the drill.
14. Drive drill. In this drill, you and your partner stand on opposite sides of the court and take turns serving, returning, and hitting the 3rd shot. The goal is to hit the 3rd shot as a drive, landing near the baseline. You can use a cone or a marker to indicate the target area. You can also vary the power, spin, and angle of your drive to make it more challenging. The first player to hit 10 drives wins the drill.
15. Lob drill. In this drill, you and your partner stand on opposite sides of the court and take turns serving, returning, and hitting the 3rd shot. The goal is to hit the 3rd shot as a lob, landing near the baseline. You can use a cone or a marker to indicate the target area. You can also vary the height, depth, and spin of your lob to make it more challenging. The first player to hit 10 lobs wins the drill.
16. Transitioning to the NVZ. Transitioning to the NVZ is the fourth and vital step in pickleball, as it allows you to gain the net and the advantage. To improve your transition to the NVZ, you need to practice moving to the net with speed, safety, and smoothness. Here are some drills that will help you improve your transition to the NVZ:
17. Split-step drill. In this drill, you and your partner stand on opposite sides of the court and take turns serving, returning, hitting the 3rd shot, and moving to the net. The goal is to use the split-step technique to move to the net quickly and efficiently. The split-step technique is when you take a small hop and land on both feet just before hitting or receiving the ball, which allows you to change direction and balance easily. You can use a cone or a marker to indicate the split-step area. You can also vary the timing and distance of your split-step to make it more challenging. The first player to hit 10 split-steps wins the drill.
18. Volley drill. In this drill, you and your partner stand on opposite sides of the court and take turns serving, returning, hitting the 3rd shot, and moving to the net. The goal is to use the volley technique to move to the net quickly and aggressively. The volley technique is when you hit the ball in the air before it bounces, which allows you to intercept and redirect the ball. You can use a cone or a marker to indicate the volley area. You can also vary the height, depth, and angle of your volley to make it more challenging. The first player to hit 10 volleys wins the drill.
19. Erne drill. In this drill, you and your partner stand on opposite sides of the court and take turns serving, returning, hitting the 3rd shot, and moving to the net. The goal is to use the Erne technique to move to the net quickly and surprisingly. The Erne technique is when you jump into the NVZ and hit the ball in the air before it bounces, which allows you to surprise and take over the point. You can use a cone or a marker to indicate the Erne area. You can also vary the timing and direction of your Erne to make it more challenging. The first player to hit 10 Ernes wins the drill.
20. Dinking. Dinking is the fifth and essential skill in pickleball, as it allows you to control the point and set up your attack. To improve your dinking, you need to practice hitting the ball with finesse, strategy, and variety. Here are some drills that will help you improve your dinking:
21. Deep dink drill. In this drill, you and your partner stand on opposite sides of the NVZ and take turns hitting dinks. The goal is to hit the dink as deep as possible, landing near the NVZ line. You can use a cone or a marker to indicate the target area. You can also vary the pace, spin, and direction of your dink to make it more challenging. The first player to hit 10 deep dinks wins the drill.
22. Short dink drill. In this drill, you and your partner stand on opposite sides of the NVZ and take turns hitting dinks. The goal is to hit the dink as short as possible, landing near the net. You can use a cone or a marker to indicate the target area. You can also vary the pace, spin, and direction of your dink to make it more challenging. The first player to hit 10 short dinks wins the drill.
23. Soft dink drill. In this drill, you and your partner stand on opposite sides of the NVZ and take turns hitting dinks. The goal is to hit the dink as soft as possible, making the ball bounce low. You can use a cone or a marker to indicate the target area. You can also vary the height, depth, and angle of your dink to make it more challenging. The first player to hit 10 soft dinks wins the drill.
24. Hard dink drill. In this drill, you and your partner stand on opposite sides of the NVZ and take turns hitting dinks. The goal is to hit the dink as hard as possible, making the ball bounce high. You can use a cone or a marker to indicate the target area. You can also vary the height, depth, and angle of your dink to make it more challenging. The first player to hit 10 hard dinks wins the drill.
25. Attacking. Attacking is the sixth and crucial skill in pickleball, as it allows you to finish the point and win the game. To improve your attacking, you need to practice hitting the ball with aggression, precision, and variety. Here are some drills that will help you improve your attacking:
26. Drive drill. In this drill, you and your partner stand on opposite sides of the court and take turns hitting drives. The goal is to hit the drive as hard and flat as possible, landing near the baseline. You can use a cone or a marker to indicate the target area. You can also vary the power, spin, and angle of your drive to make it more challenging. The first player to hit 10 drives wins the drill.
27. Smash drill. In this drill, you and your partner stand on opposite sides of the court and take turns hitting smashes. The goal is to hit the smash as powerful and downward as possible, ending the point. You can use a cone or a marker to indicate the target area. You can also vary the power, spin, and angle of your smash to make it more challenging. The first player to hit 10 smashes wins the drill.
28. Drop volley drill. In this drill, you and your partner stand on opposite sides of the court and take turns hitting drop volleys. The goal is to hit the drop volley as soft and high as possible, landing near the NVZ. You can use a cone or a marker to indicate the target area. You can also vary the pace, spin, and angle of your drop volley to make it more challenging. The first player to hit 10 drop volleys wins the drill.
29. Soft drive drill. In this drill, you and your partner stand on opposite sides of the court and take turns hitting soft drives. The goal is to hit the soft drive as hard and low as possible, skimming the net. You can use a cone or a marker to indicate the target area. You can also vary the power, spin, and angle of your soft drive to make it more challenging. The first player to hit 10 soft drives wins the drill.
30. Defending. Defending is the seventh and vital skill in pickleball, as it allows you to counter your opponents’ attacks and regain the advantage. To improve your defending, you need to practice hitting the ball with composure, skill, and variety. Here are some drills that will help you improve your defending:
31. Block volley drill. In this drill, you and your partner stand on opposite sides of the court and take turns hitting block volleys. The goal is to hit the block volley as soft and short as possible, dropping near the net. You can use a cone or a marker to indicate the target area. You can also vary the height, depth, and angle of your block volley to make it more challenging. The first player to hit 10 block volleys wins the drill.
32. Lob drill. In this drill, you and your partner stand on opposite sides of the court and take turns hitting lobs. The goal is to hit the lob as high and deep as possible, landing near the baseline. You can use a cone or a marker to indicate the target area. You can also vary the height, depth, and spin of your lob to make it more challenging. The first player to hit 10 lobs wins the drill.
33. Counter drive drill. In this drill, you and your partner stand on opposite sides of the court and take turns hitting counter drives. The goal is to hit the counter drive as hard and flat as possible, landing near the baseline. You can use a cone or a marker to indicate the target area. You can also vary the power, spin, and angle of your counter drive to make it more challenging. The first player to hit 10 counter drives wins the drill.
34. Lobbing. Lobbing is the eighth and important skill in pickleball, as it allows you to disrupt your opponents’ rhythm and position. To improve your lobbing, you need to practice hitting the ball with timing, placement, and variety. Here are some drills that will help you improve your lobbing:
35. High lob drill. In this drill, you and your partner stand on opposite sides of the court and take turns hitting high lobs. The goal is to hit the lob as high as possible, making it difficult for your opponents to smash. You can use a cone or a marker to indicate the target area. You can also vary the height, depth, and spin of your lob to make it more challenging. The first player to hit 10 high lobs wins the drill.
36. Deep lob drill. In this drill, you and your partner stand on opposite sides of the court and take turns hitting deep lobs. The goal is to hit the lob as deep as possible, making it difficult for your opponents to return. You can use a cone or a marker to indicate the target area. You can also vary the height, depth, and spin of your lob to make it more challenging. The first player to hit 10 deep lobs wins the drill.
37. Slice lob drill. In this drill, you and your partner stand on opposite sides of the court and take turns hitting slice lobs. The goal is to hit the lob with a slice, making it bounce unpredictably. You can use a cone or a marker to indicate the target area. You can also vary the height, depth, and spin of your lob to make it more challenging. The first player to hit 10 slice lobs wins the drill.
38. Stacking. Stacking is the ninth and optional skill in pickleball, as it allows you to optimize your court coverage and shot selection. To improve your stacking, you need to practice switching sides with your partner with coordination and communication. Here are some drills that will help you improve your stacking:
39. Signal drill. In this drill, you and your partner stand on opposite sides of the court and take turns serving and returning. The goal is to use a signal or a code to indicate your intention to stack. You can use a hand gesture, a verbal cue, or a paddle tap to signal your partner. You can also vary the timing and frequency of your signal to make it more challenging. The first player to hit 10 signals wins the drill.
40. Switch drill. In this drill, you and your partner stand on opposite sides of the court and take turns serving and returning. The goal is to use a pattern or a system to switch sides smoothly. You can use a clockwise, a counter-clockwise, or a random pattern to switch sides. You can also vary the speed and distance of your switch to make it more challenging. The first player to hit 10 switches wins the drill.
41. Call drill. In this drill, you and your partner stand on opposite sides of the court and take turns serving and returning. The goal is to use a call or a gesture to confirm your position and shot. You can use a word, a number, or a paddle point to confirm your partner. You can also vary the volume and clarity of your call to make it more challenging. The first player to hit 10 calls wins the drill.

Top drills for a winning drop shot in pickleball

5 Tips For Perfect Pickleball Serve Technique

The serve is the first and most important shot in pickleball, as it starts the point and sets the tone for the rally. To improve your serve technique, you need to follow these five tips:

1. Grip the paddle loosely and comfortably. A loose and comfortable grip will allow you to swing the paddle smoothly and freely, without tension or stiffness. A loose and comfortable grip will also allow you to adjust the paddle face angle and generate more power and spin. To grip the paddle loosely and comfortably, you can use the continental grip, which is when you hold the paddle as if you were shaking hands with it, with the paddle face perpendicular to the ground.
2. Stand behind the baseline and face the target. A good stance and alignment will allow you to hit the ball with accuracy and consistency, without wasting or losing energy. A good stance and alignment will also allow you to balance and move easily, without stumbling or falling. To stand behind the baseline and face the target, you can use the square stance, which is when you stand with your feet shoulder-width apart and parallel to the baseline, with your toes pointing to the target.
3. Toss the ball low and in front of you. A good toss will allow you to hit the ball with timing and control, without rushing or hesitating. A good toss will also allow you to hit the ball with the right height and depth, without hitting the net or the out line. To toss the ball low and in front of you, you can use the palm toss, which is when you hold the ball in your palm and release it gently with a slight upward motion, making the ball rise no higher than your waist and land no farther than your paddle.
4. Swing the paddle smoothly and follow through. A good swing will allow you to hit the ball with power and spin, without jerking or stopping. A good swing will also allow you to hit the ball with the right pace and direction, without hitting too hard or too soft, too straight or too angled. To swing the paddle smoothly and follow through, you can use the pendulum swing, which is when you swing the paddle from high to low, like a pendulum, with a slight upward motion at the end, making the paddle face open and the paddle head travel past your body.
5. Aim for the center of the court and the baseline. A good aim will allow you to hit the ball with percentage and strategy, without missing or giving away. A good aim will also allow you to put pressure on your opponents and set up your 3rd shot, without being passive or aggressive. To aim for the center of the court and the baseline, you can use the 80/20 rule, which is when you aim for the 80% of the court that is the safest and most effective, and avoid the 20% of the court that is the riskiest and least effective.

Mastering Pickleball Singles Serve: Rules, Techniques, and Strategies

3 Keys To Successful Dinking

Dinking is the fifth and essential skill in pickleball, as it allows you to control the point and set up your attack. To improve your dinking, you need to master these three keys:

1. Softness. Softness is the ability to hit the ball with a soft and gentle touch, making the ball bounce low and over the net. Softness will allow you to dink with finesse and strategy, without hitting too hard or too high, too flat or too spinny. To improve your softness, you need to grip the paddle lightly and softly, position yourself close to the NVZ line and face the ball, use a short and compact swing with a slight upward motion, aim for the center of the paddle and the center of the ball, and hit the ball low and over the net.
2. Consistency. Consistency is the ability to hit the ball with a consistent and reliable touch, making the ball bounce near the NVZ line and near the net. Consistency will allow you to dink with confidence and control, without hitting too short or too long, too wide or too angled. To improve your consistency, you need to practice hitting the ball with the same pace, spin, and direction, aim for the same target area, and repeat the same technique and motion.
3. Variety. Variety is the ability to hit the ball with a varied and unpredictable touch, making the ball bounce near the NVZ line and near the net, but with different heights, depths, and angles. Variety will allow you to dink with flair and creativity, without hitting too predictably or too randomly, too flat or too spinny. To improve your variety, you need to experiment hitting the ball with different paces, spins, and directions, aim for different target areas, and change your technique and motion.

Dinking in Pickleball | Dominate Your Opponents with These Tips

Top 3 Tips For Strong Pickleball Volleys

The volley is the sixth and crucial skill in pickleball, as it allows you to finish the point and win the game. To improve your volley, you need to follow these three tips:

1. Keep your paddle up and ready. A good paddle position will allow you to hit the ball with reaction and preparation, without dropping or lifting. A good paddle position will also allow you to hit the ball with the right paddle face angle and paddle head position, without opening or closing, tilting or twisting. To keep your paddle up and ready, you need to hold the paddle in front of your chest and above the net, with the paddle face perpendicular to the ground and parallel to the net, and the paddle head slightly above the paddle handle.
2. Use your body and paddle to cover the court. A good court coverage will allow you to hit the ball with anticipation and execution, without reaching or lunging. A good court coverage will also allow you to hit the ball with the right paddle head speed and paddle head path, without slowing or stopping, swinging or stabbing. To use your body and paddle to cover the court, you need to move your feet and knees to adjust your position and balance, and move your wrist and paddle to adjust your direction and pace.
3. Hit the ball with authority and accuracy. A good volley technique will allow you to hit the ball with power and precision, without hitting too hard or too soft, too straight or too angled. A good volley technique will also allow you to hit the ball with the right paddle head shape and paddle head speed, without flattening or curving, jerking or stopping. To hit the ball with authority and accuracy, you need to hit the ball in front of your body and above the net, with the paddle face perpendicular to the ground and parallel to the net, and the paddle head slightly above the paddle handle. You also need to hit the ball with a firm and short swing, with a slight downward motion at the end, making the paddle face close and the paddle head travel past your body.

Mastering Pickleball Volleys: Strategies for Singles and Doubles Success

How To Dominate The Net

The net is the most important and advantageous position in pickleball, as it allows you to control the point and win the game. To dominate the net, you need to follow these three steps:

1. Transition to the net quickly and safely. The first step to dominate the net is to transition to the net as soon as possible, without getting attacked or leaving gaps. To transition to the net quickly and safely, you need to hit a good 3rd shot that gives you time and space to move forward, move as a unit with your partner, split-step and get ready for the next shot, and stay behind the NVZ line until the ball bounces.
2. Dink with finesse and strategy. The second step to dominate the net is to dink with finesse and strategy, without hitting too hard or too high, too flat or too spinny. To dink with finesse and strategy, you need to hit the ball with a soft and gentle touch, making the ball bounce low and over the net, hit the ball with a consistent and reliable touch, making the ball bounce near the NVZ line and near the net, and hit the ball with a varied and unpredictable touch, making the ball bounce near the NVZ line and near the net, but with different heights, depths, and angles.
3. Attack with aggression and precision. The third step to dominate the net is to attack with aggression and precision, without hitting too soft or too low, too straight or too angled. To attack with aggression and precision, you need to hit the ball with a hard and flat touch, making the ball land near the baseline, hit the ball with a powerful and downward touch, making the ball end the point, and hit the ball with a soft and high touch, making the ball land near the NVZ.

Conclusion

In this article, we have introduced you to the Dominating Doubles System, a comprehensive course created by Primetime Pickleball that will teach you everything you need to know about playing smart and successful doubles pickleball. We have also shared some common pickleball mistakes, drills and tips that will improve your skills and confidence on the court. We hope you have found this article useful and informative, and we encourage you to check out the Dominating Doubles System course and the Primetime Pickleball website for more pickleball instruction and coaching.