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- 🤾♀️ Do not hit your volleys like this
🤾♀️ Do not hit your volleys like this
Plus, how to poach, disguise the perfect backhand speed up, and much more...
Brandon Mackie
January 16, 2025
Hey, reader,
Welcome back to the Pickleheads Newsletter!
In this issue:
🤾♀️ Do not hit your volleys like this
🤭 How to poach
🥸 Disguise the perfect backhand speed up
🎯 Where to dink, where to cover
🤾♀️ Do not hit your volleys like this
I’m stoked to welcome back James Ignatowich, top-5 ranked pickleball player in the world, for this week’s Level Up.
Hey Pickleheads readers,
I see a lot of beginner-to-intermediate players slicing their volleys way too often.
You especially shouldn’t be slicing returns when you’re in a hands battle.
If you’re slicing the ball on your volleys, that means the edge of your paddle is coming UNDER the ball generating backspin. This is not a recipe for success because you can’t hit the ball that hard whilst keeping it in.
You actually want to be hitting down on your volleys instead. To do this, get the tip of your paddle OVER the ball!
Here’s a really quick drill I use to get used to the motion I’m looking for on my volleys: a figure 8 shadow.
Here's how it works: Stand in a ready position, hold your paddle out in front of you, and trace a figure 8 in the air with your paddle tip.
Focus on keeping your wrist stable and your movements smooth. This will train your muscle memory for that 'tip over the ball' motion.
Give it a try before your next game, and watch your volleys level up.
Click below to watch my 60-second clip where I walk you through this week’s tip👇
Rest, Recover and Recharge with Tuft & Needle
We all know, pickleball demands quick reflexes, sharp focus, and endless energy – and quality rest is the key to keeping your edge.
Tuft & Needle offers thoughtfully designed essentials to help you recharge and stay ready for every rally.
✈️ Traveling for tournaments or getaways? The T&N Travel Pillow ensures you can catch quality sleep wherever you are. Compact and convenient, it’s the perfect companion for planes, trains, or road trips.
😴 Noise distractions keeping you up? A White Noise Machine creates a peaceful sleep environment, drowning out sudden changes in sound so you can rest uninterrupted.
🛏️ Protect your court-side recovery spot. The Mattress Protector is waterproof, machine washable, and designed to keep your bed fresh and cozy, no matter how hard you’ve played.
Tuft & Needle crafts all their products with care – no harsh chemicals, just clean air and comfort. Plus, they back it all with a 100-night trial and a hassle-free warranty.
Your best game starts with better rest.
🤭 How to poach
🥸 Disguise the perfect backhand speed up
🎯 Where to dink, where to cover
Comfy, durable, and sustainable sneakers
After “dominating” the pickleball court, I like to change into sneakers that offer the perfect blend of comfort, durability, and sustainability. And Thousand Fell delivers on all fronts.
Made with natural and recycled materials, these sneakers offer:
Comfy with plush yoga mat insoles and breathable aloe vera liners ✅
Durable to handle whatever you throw at them ✅
Made from recycled and biodegradable materials ✅
Here’s the best part:
Every pair is fully recyclable ♻️
Send back your old Thousand Fell sneakers for $20 in credits 📬
Recycle any clothing for $5 credit per piece 🌎
Looking good shouldn’t come at the planet’s expense, right? Take a look at the sneakers on offer by clicking the link below.
Indian Wells Tennis Garden, CA
📸Indian Wells Tennis Garden
You’ll find this week’s dream courts at Indian Wells Tennis Garden, Indian Wells, CA.
Indian Wells Tennis Garden could be considered THE premier destination for pickleball players.
This state-of-the-art facility has 8 pickleball courts set against the backdrop of stunning scenery.
This is the place you wanna go for a proper premium pickleball experience. Although, unfortunately, that does come at the cost of a membership…😢
🏓 Play harder, recover smarter with Sunlighten
Sunlighten offers a unique approach to wellness – easing sore muscles, improving sleep, and boosting endurance.
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