Counter Bangers in Pickleball: Facing a “banger” in pickleball can be intimidating. Bangers relentlessly drive the ball at high speeds, but with the right approach, players can turn the tables. In a recent video, pickleball player Cliff (now rebranded as Robust Pickleball) shared an effective strategy to counter these aggressive players by mastering a crucial skill: countering.
Relax and Time the Shots
Cliff emphasizes the importance of staying relaxed when facing a hard drive. Many pickleball players make the mistake of tensing up, which only leads to errors. The key to countering a banger is to stay calm and focus on timing.
Cliff demonstrates how to let the ball come to you instead of rushing to meet it too early. By absorbing the speed of the ball and using it to your advantage, players can redirect it back with precision.
Step-by-Step Guide to Countering
Cliff breaks down the countering technique into a few simple steps:
- Stay Relaxed: Avoid tightening your grip or stiffening your arm. Tension can cause mishits and errors.
- Anticipate the Ball’s Path: Focus on where the ball is coming from, whether it’s your backhand or forehand, and adjust your body and stance accordingly.
- Small Backswing and Follow-Through: A small, controlled backswing is key. This allows players to redirect the ball while staying in control without needing a strong swing.
- Keep the Paddle Low: Position your paddle lower and closer to your body. This gives you better control over the direction and placement of your shot.
Practicing the Counter Shot
Cliff demonstrates these techniques with his students, Natalia and Jenna. The focus is on patience and tracking the ball carefully.
The goal isn’t to overpower the ball, but to guide it precisely, creating a controlled return with a downward trajectory. This forces bangers to adjust their positions, which often leads to mistakes.
Why This Works Against Bangers
Cliff explains that bangers inadvertently give up control of the game by hitting hard drives. These fast shots present a perfect opportunity to counter and place the ball strategically.
With the countering technique, players can send the ball wide, change angles, or place it in open spaces, forcing the banger to move and setting up potential points.
Key Takeaways
To successfully counter a banger, players need:
- Relaxation and patience to track the ball and anticipate its path.
- A small backswing with a controlled follow-through to redirect the ball.
- Consistency in control, avoiding unnecessary power or aggression.
With these techniques, players can neutralize the banger’s aggressive style and regain control of the match. As Cliff puts it, “Let the ball come to you and just use the power against them.”
The RED Paddle Advantage
Cliff also recommends the RED paddle by Robust Pickleball for players looking to enhance their game. Featuring Gen 3 technology, a foam-injected core, and a T700 carbon fiber face, this paddle offers excellent control and precision to execute the countering techniques effectively.
News in Brief: Counter Bangers in Pickleball
Cliff (Robust Pickleball) shares a simple yet effective strategy for countering hard drives from bangers in pickleball. By staying relaxed, timing your shots, and using a small backswing, players can regain control and exploit the banger’s power to their advantage.
ALSO READ: Mastering Down-the-Line Shot in Pickleball: James Ignatowich’s Tips for Beating Bangers