Rob Nunnery’s Tips: Pickleball professional Rob Nunnery has introduced the Shake and Bake drill, an advanced strategy for improving communication and teamwork. This drill is particularly effective in colder environments where the ball moves quickly, allowing players to capitalize on faster gameplay.
Nunnery emphasizes that the Shake and Bake works best in conditions where the ball is firm and flies fast. “If the ball’s playing slow, like in Naples, Florida, and it’s mush, this is not a great thing to do because it’s pretty easy to handle if you’re the other team,” he explained.
How the Drill Works
The Shake and Bake drill requires a powerful serve to set up an aggressive return. Nunnery noted, “I’m going to go for a bigger serve because I’m looking to get a nice, easier return. It doesn’t always happen, but it’s worth going for.” The player hitting the return aims to take the ball early, reducing the opponent’s time to reach the kitchen line.
Positioning and communication between partners are crucial. “Whoever has a forehand here typically is the person that you want taking this,” Nunnery stated, stressing the need for verbal cues like “I got it” or “go” to maintain synchronization.
Adjustments and Key Strategies
Players must adapt to various scenarios during the drill. For instance, if the return is weak and high, the poaching player should move in for an aggressive shot. However, if the return is low, a controlled drop shot is more effective.
“It’s not a full-on sellout poach where you have to go no matter what,” Nunnery clarified. He advised players to remain poised, saying, “You’re hunting, you’re looking for the ball, but it’s not a full sellout.”
Expert Advice for Mastery
Timing and repetitions are essential to perfect the Shake and Bake. Nunnery demonstrated how taking the ball on the rise can disrupt an opponent’s timing. “If Damen gets all the way to the kitchen line and gets set, he’s going to have a much better chance of handling that volley versus if he’s a step behind,” he explained.
The drill also highlights the importance of adaptability. Nunnery suggested predetermined strategies for some situations while encouraging spontaneous decisions when opportunities arise. He added, “If the return is weak and short, go for it. If it’s short and low, drop it.”
Significance of the Drill
The Shake and Bake drill is a valuable tool for players looking to elevate their game. It enhances communication, builds confidence, and sharpens decision-making under pressure. By practicing this drill, pickleball players can improve their ability to control the pace and dynamics of a match.
For more pickleball strategies and tips, Nunnery encourages players to subscribe to Selkirk TV. “It’s repetitions, it’s habit, it’s practice—that’s what we do,” he concluded.
News in Brief: Rob Nunnery’s Tips
Pickleball pro Rob Nunnery introduces the Shake and Bake drill to enhance communication, teamwork, and strategy in faster gameplay. This drill, best in cold conditions with firm balls, emphasizes aggressive serving, early returns, and synchronized positioning. Adaptability and repetition are key, with players encouraged to hone timing and decision-making for better control of match dynamics.
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