Beating the Bangers: Tips for Tackling Aggressive Opponents
Hey, pickleball players! If you’ve faced opponents who slam those third-shot drops and aggressively attack at the non-volley zone, you know exactly what I mean by “bangers.” These players hit every ball from the baseline as hard as they can, and while their aggressive style can often pay off, there are ways to outsmart them on the court.
Remember, while bangers can dominate at the beginner and intermediate levels, advanced players have the tools to counter their tactics. Let’s break down four strategies to help you make it difficult for bangers and gain the upper hand in your matches!
- Serve Deep
The first key to beating bangers is to serve deep. A solid, deep serve forces your opponents to stay back longer, making it tougher for them to hit hard returns. If they do manage to drive the ball back, they won’t have enough time to close in on the non-volley line before you hit your third shot. This gives you the upper hand, allowing you to dictate the pace of the game.
- Return Deep
Now, let’s talk about serve returns. I can’t tell you how much I love it when my opponents return my serve short—it makes it so easy for me to drive the ball back at them! Instead, focus on returning deep to the back six feet of the court. This strategy makes it significantly harder for bangers to unleash their aggressive shots as they advance. By keeping them at bay, you take away their power.
- Develop a Consistent Backhand Punch Volley
When a hard drive comes your way, it’s essential to remain composed. A solid backhand punch volley can be a game-changer against aggressive opponents. When you see a fast ball approaching, turn your paddle parallel to the net and perform a compact block-punch. Your goal here is to send the ball straight back to your opponents, turning their aggression against them. This tactic not only increases your odds of winning the point but also keeps you in control of the rally.
- Utilize Low, Wide Dinks
When all four players are at the non-volley line, bangers often try to speed up the game to take advantage of their aggressive playstyle. To counter this, incorporate low, wide dinks into your strategy. By forcing them to reach for the ball, you create opportunities for errors on their end. This not only disrupts their rhythm but also enhances your chances of winning the point.
By applying these strategies, you’ll not only make it more challenging for bangers to dominate the game, but you’ll also elevate your overall play. Remember, pickleball is as much about strategy as it is about power, so keep these tips in mind the next time you step onto the court. Stay confident, trust your skills, and most importantly—have fun out there!
Let’s go crush those bangers together!