Struggles on the Pickleball Court: Couples are discovering that playing pickleball together isn’t always smooth sailing. Dr. Stormy Hill and Terri Citterman, authors of In A Pickle: How to Master Love and Pickleball and Not Kill Each Other, explore why tensions arise on the court and how to manage them effectively.
When Pickleball Turns Sour
Even couples with strong relationships struggle with the pressures of competing in mixed doubles. “My long-term partner and I have a really solid, fabulous relationship. And then we hit the pickleball court, and it really fell apart,” said Hill, a mental health therapist and relationship coach.
Citterman, an executive coach and writer, experienced similar issues with her husband. “We played a few tournaments, and it was rough. We got to the point where we needed to decide whether or not we were going to go through a pickleball divorce,” she shared.
Expert Insights into Court Conflicts
Hill and Citterman combined their expertise to help couples navigate the challenges of blending love and sport. Their book offers practical strategies to address communication breakdowns, competitive stress, and emotional flare-ups on the court.
“We couldn’t make it work initially, and it took effort to find harmony,” Hill admitted. Citterman echoed the sentiment, highlighting the importance of teamwork and understanding.
Lessons for Players and Partners
The authors’ advice resonates with many couples looking to strengthen their bond while enjoying the game. Their guidance encourages reflection, patience, and cooperation, helping partners avoid conflicts that can extend beyond the court.
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Building Stronger Bonds
Hill and Citterman’s work underscores how shared activities like pickleball can reveal hidden dynamics in relationships. Their message is clear: with effort and understanding, couples can turn potential pitfalls into opportunities for growth, both in their games and their connections.
News in Brief: Struggles on the Pickleball Court
Couples often face challenges when playing pickleball together, as highlighted by Dr. Stormy Hill and Terri Citterman in their book. Through personal struggles and professional expertise, the authors provide insights and strategies for balancing love and competition, offering guidance to partners aiming to master the game without harming their relationship.
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