Richard Livornese Jr. Explains the Backhand Flick: Pickleball player Richard Livornese Jr. offers expert tips on mastering the backhand flick, one of the sport’s most powerful and effective shots. The backhand flick is an essential move, especially for left-side players, allowing them to generate offense off a ball hit to their backhand side.
Key Tips for the Backhand Flick
To make the backhand flick work, the height of the incoming ball is critical. Livornese recommends attacking balls that are at net height or above. Balls lower than knee height should be avoided, while those between the knee and net can be attacked with practice. The position of the ball—whether it’s coming at the player or is wider—also plays a role in how successful the flick can be.
Next, Livornese demonstrates the proper paddle technique. For maximum power and spin, the tip of the paddle must be below the ball. A loose wrist helps with the flick motion, allowing for a fluid shot with a strong follow-through.
When executing the flick, players should aim for specific targets. The first target is the opponent’s right shoulder, making it difficult for them to return the shot.
The second is just off the left shoulder, and the third is crosscourt. By keeping the opponent guessing and covering multiple spots, the backhand flick becomes even more effective.
The Power of the Flick
In practice, Livornese highlights how changing the placement of the shot makes it nearly impossible for opponents to cover all angles. By alternating between these locations, players create pressure, forcing their opponents into difficult positions.
As Livornese shows with his demonstration, mastering the backhand flick can dramatically improve a player’s game. He notes that top professionals like Ben Johns and JW Johnson use this technique to create havoc for their opponents.
The Advanced Flick
For experienced players, Livornese suggests a final move: the flick dink crosscourt. This is a difficult shot but can be highly effective when opponents start covering all angles of the flick. Players like Mari Humberg and JW Johnson have successfully used this technique, proving its effectiveness in high-level matches.
Adding the backhand flick to your skillset will give you an edge over your opponents, making it a vital part of your pickleball game.
News in Brief: Richard Livornese Jr. Explains the Backhand Flick
Pickleball player Richard Livornese Jr. shares tips on mastering the backhand flick, a powerful shot, especially for left-side players. Key elements include attacking balls at net height, using proper paddle technique, and aiming at strategic targets. Livornese also explains how the flick, including advanced crosscourt variations, can pressure opponents and elevate a player’s game.
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