Hey Team!

Here’s an interesting concept that will really make you rethink your game:

Players hesitate to serve hard and deep because they’re scared of missing the ball long…

However, those players don’t even bat an eye when they miss third-shot drops.

You should prioritize ‘going for it’ on your serve to have an easier third-shot drop.

I much prefer ‘risking it’ on my serve (when I’m in control) to almost guarantee an easy drop, as opposed to serving weak and having a very difficult third-shot drop.

Something to think about in your game… where are you “risking it” and does the reward match that risk?

🤔

Now, let’s get to your exclusive video!

How to Serve HARD! 🔋👊 

Will Howells has a powerful serve…it’s also one of the most controversial. 👀

Learn how to serve with max power…In Under 60 Seconds.

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5 Secret Tips ALL 5.0 Level Players Use! (Level Up Your Pickleball Game)

Pickleball players of all levels are always looking to step up their game, and if you’re aiming to hit that 5.0 level, these five secrets can help.

Here’s a breakdown of five advanced strategies that will improve your gameplay, increase your court presence, and give you an edge over your opponents.

🧠 Tip #1 - What You Should Be Thinking When Dinking

Many players dink without purpose, simply tapping the ball back over the net with little thought. To level up, dinking needs to be strategic:

• Aggressive Dinks: When executing an aggressive dink crosscourt, take a step forward, lean in, and shrink the kitchen. This puts pressure on your opponent and sets you up to attack if they make a weak return.

• Move with Intent: Instead of just standing back, get into a position to capitalize on any pop-up for an aerial shot. Use your court positioning to create pressure, not just to react.

By understanding the purpose behind each dink, you can make your shots more powerful and disruptive to your opponents.

♟️ Tip #2 - Offensive Shots Should Be Percentage-Based

Advanced players know that every shot counts, so they weigh the odds with each strike:

• Take Advantage of High-Percentage Shots: If you have a 60% chance of winning the point with a certain shot, take it! Lower-level players often miss opportunities by playing it safe. Seize these moments and keep your opponent on the defensive.

• Examples in Action: When a short return comes your way, drive the ball to put immediate pressure on your opponent. Similarly, if you have a high dink near the net, avoid slicing it back. Instead, speed it up to gain the upper hand.

Playing with intention and seizing these opportunities will drastically improve your control over the game.

👯 Tip #3 - Proper Positioning When Your Partner Hits a Third Shot Drop

Positioning is key when your partner is setting up a third shot drop. Knowing where to stand can make all the difference:

• Advance Three Steps: As your partner prepares the third shot drop, step about three paces ahead and monitor their shot. If they execute a low, controlled drop, you’re in position to poach the net and apply pressure on the opponent.

• Adapt to the Shot: If the drop is high or lacks control, pull back to avoid getting caught off guard. Proper positioning allows you to maximize the shot’s effectiveness while protecting against counterattacks.

With the right placement, you and your partner can control the pace of the game and keep opponents on their heels.

🧑‍🍳 Tip #4 - Recognize When to Lean In or Pull Back at the Kitchen

Knowing when to lean in or pull back is a skill that separates top players from the rest:

• Leaning In: When you hit an aggressive dink that challenges your opponent, lean forward, anticipating a weak return. This keeps you ready to attack and reduces the opponent's reaction time.

• Pulling Back: If you deliver a dink that’s lofted or less controlled, pull back slightly. This defensive positioning prepares you to handle a faster, more aggressive return from your opponent.

Constantly adjusting based on the quality of your shots will improve your reflexes and enhance your control over the rally.

🏆 Tip #5 - Mental Strategy in Tournament Play

The mental game in pickleball is often overlooked, but for a 5.0 player, it’s crucial. Breaking down your game plan can give you a winning edge:

• Divide and Conquer: In tournaments, treat a game to 11 as two mini-games – first to five and then to 11. After each segment, pause with your partner to assess what’s working and adjust accordingly.

• Analyze Patterns and Strategies: If your team reaches five points first, identify the tactics that are working and double down. If the opponent gets there first, strategize to break their rhythm and counter their approach.

This approach keeps you focused, prevents panic, and allows you to control the pace of the game with clarity and purpose.

By incorporating these five strategies, you’ll gain the skills and mindset that 5.0 players use to dominate the court.

What I’m Working On Right Now

I’m roommates in Florida with Will Howells.

He’s a well-established pro and can be put into that ‘elite tier’ of pickleball players. He plays alongside Anna Leigh Waters in MLP, and his team (New Jersey 5s) is currently in 2nd place overall.

Basically, he knows his stuff. 🤣

When I practice with him, he’s constantly telling me I need to go for it more on my serve. I’ve been watching tons of pro film and kept coming to this conclusion:

How can these people serve the ball so much harder than me? I’m just as athletic, strong, study the game, etc..? Is it really because of their tennis background.. can that REALLY make that big of a difference?

The answer is this:

I studied Quang Duong’s game (another elite-level pro with one of the best serves in pickleball) and noticed his extreme grip.

I tried it (but less extreme), and this immediately added power and spin. Most tennis players use this grip, which is a direct result of why they hit so much harder.

I will discuss this further in my next YouTube video. I just wanted to give you a sneak peak.

I’ll be sure to email you when it’s posted in a couple of days!

Till next week! ✌️

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