10 Deadly Pickleball Sins: What Not to Do on the Court!

Whether just starting in pickleball or have been playing for years, there is certain conventional wisdom of what not to do in pickleball. Some you will look at and roll your eyes yet others may even “wow” you.

1. The Rushing Rhino Syndrome 🦏

Imagine a player charging onto the pickleball court like a wild rhino, fueled with boundless energy, but lacking finesse and strategy. The Rushing Rhino Syndrome is a grave sin many players commit, and it’s time to break free from this rampage.

The Solution: Slow and Steady Wins the Rally 🐢

• Footwork Finesse: Master the art of positioning and footwork to anticipate shots effortlessly.
• Patient Paddle: Resist the urge to pounce on every ball. Instead, take your time and pick the perfect moment to strike.

2. The Lob-Gone-Wrong Blunder 🎯

Ah, the lob—a seemingly easy shot that often turns into a high-flying disaster. Sending the ball into orbit might feel impressive, but when it lands out of bounds, it’s a grave sin that costs you valuable points.

The Solution: Aim High, Land Safe 🚀

• Measure Your Might: Judge the distance and your own capabilities before attempting a lob.
• Practice Precision: Work on your lob accuracy to keep the ball within the court boundaries.

3. The “Overambitious Overhead” Mishap 🤦‍♂️

Attempting a flashy overhead smash may seem tempting, but it can lead to embarrassing blunders. Don’t be a victim of your own ambition.

The Solution: Crafty, Not Cocky 🎭

• Choose Wisely: Opt for overhead smashes only when the situation is favorable, and you have a high chance of success.
• Mind the Placement: Aim for strategic spots on the court, making it difficult for your opponents to retaliate.

4. The “Never Say Die” Deception 💀

Perseverance is admirable, but stubbornness can be your downfall. Hanging on to lost causes is a grave sin that wastes energy and momentum.

The Solution: Strategic Surrender 🏳️

• Assess and Adapt: Recognize when the odds are stacked against you and alter your game plan accordingly.
• Live to Fight Another Rally: Sometimes it’s wiser to yield the point and focus on winning the next one.

5. The “Mid-Court Madness” Mayhem 🌀

Stuck in no man’s land, the mid-court is a tricky spot that can spell disaster if not handled with care. It’s time to escape the clutches of Mid-Court Madness!

The Solution: Retreat or Conquer 🏰

• Back it Up: When in doubt, retreat to a safer position rather than taking unnecessary risks.
• Seize the Moment: Turn mid-court situations to your advantage with well-placed shots and quick reflexes.

6. The “Monotonous Madness” Monologue 🗣️

Constantly berating yourself or your partner during a match can lead to communication breakdown and a negative playing experience. Don’t let the Monotonous Madness monologue take over!

The Solution: Constructive Communication 📞

• Positive Reinforcements: Encourage each other, celebrate good plays, and maintain a constructive atmosphere.
• Strategic Signals: Develop non-verbal cues and signals to coordinate better with your partner.

7. The “Serve and Forget” Gaffe 🎾

A lackluster serve can hand your opponents an early advantage. Avoid committing the Serve and Forget Gaffe that leaves your opponents celebrating.

The Solution: Serve with Purpose 🎯

• Practice Makes Perfect: Dedicate time to refine your serves, ensuring consistency and precision.
• Vary the Velocity: Mix up your serve speed and placement to keep opponents guessing.

8. The “Poaching Party” Infraction 🎉

While poaching can be an effective strategy, excessive poaching without coordination with your partner can lead to confusion and missed opportunities.

The Solution: Poach with a Purpose 🚗

• Sync with Your Sidekick: Communicate with your partner and execute well-timed poaches.
• Read and React: Understand your opponents’ tendencies to make successful poaching moves.

9. The “Overzealous Ernie” Blunder 🏐

Ah, the beloved Ernie—where players leave their post to hit a ball on the side of the court. However, doing it at the wrong time is an Overzealous Ernie Blunder.

The Solution: Earnestly Earn the Erne 🏆

• Timing is Key: Learn when to attempt an Erne and when to hold your ground.
• Team Effort: Coordinate with your partner to ensure court coverage during an Erne attempt.

10. The “Rulebook Rebellion” Revolt 📖

Pickleball has its rules, but sometimes players become rebels, unknowingly or not, causing chaos on the court.

The Solution: Embrace the Rulebook 📜

• Know the Rules: Familiarize yourself with the official pickleball rules and regulations.
• Fair Play Matters: Practice sportsmanship and fair play, even if it means conceding a point due to a foul.

And there you have it, pickleball devotees! We hope this fun-filled guide has shed light on the unconventional mistakes to avoid on the pickleball court.