Jack Munro Reveals the Secret: In the first episode of Jack Munro’s Pickleball Masterclass series, he breaks down the critical technique of the return of serve. Known as one of the most important shots in pickleball, this video covers everything from grip positioning to timing, footwork, and power mechanics. Whether you’re struggling with slice returns or getting jammed by deep serves, Munro provides high-level strategies to help players improve their return game.
The Key to a Strong Return: Grip and Footwork
One of the foundational aspects of a good return is proper grip. Unlike tennis, pickleball players do not need a full Continental grip. Munro advises players to prioritize their forehand by adopting an Eastern semi-western grip, which strengthens the forehand.
With this grip, players can cover the majority of serves with their forehand, even when faced with difficult returns. However, this emphasis on forehand means the backhand is weaker, and Munro recommends using a two-handed backhand for better control and power when returning serves to the backhand side.
While some players, like Will Howes, may prioritize their backhand returns, Munro points out that this requires significant footwork, making it difficult for most players to execute consistently. By using the forehand more often, players can keep their footwork relaxed and still hit effective returns.
The Importance of the Split Step
To prepare for a strong return, Munro emphasizes the use of the split step, a technique where players perform a mini jump right before the opponent serves. This movement engages the body and helps players stay balanced, ready to move in any direction.
The key is to begin the split step just as the opponent contacts the ball, landing on the balls of the feet for quicker movement. Munro explains that the split step is crucial because it helps maintain rhythm, allows players to move efficiently, and keeps them prepared for the next shot.
Contact Point and Body Positioning
Munro also advises players to focus on making contact with the ball closer to their body, particularly near the “pockets” around the hips. Hitting the ball in this area provides more control and power.
This is particularly important for backhand returns, as positioning the body closer to the ball will lead to better execution. Even when served at the body, Munro recommends running around the ball and hitting near the hips for maximum control.
Using Your Body for Power
A common mistake Munro observes is players losing forward momentum after their split step. Instead, players should focus on using their lower body to push forward during the return, with the arms guiding the ball. This approach creates a fluid motion, helping players maintain consistency and avoid rushing their swings. Munro advises against using excessive wrist movement during the return; instead, the power should come from the legs, core, and shoulders, not from the wrists.
The Two-Handed Backhand
Munro highlights the importance of using a two-handed backhand for returns. He explains that slice returns, while once common, are now vulnerable to aggressive spin shots from opponents. By using a two-handed backhand, players can better control the ball and return it with depth. A slice return, on the other hand, allows the opponent to generate more spin and turn it into a stronger attack.
Anticipating the Serve
To improve the return, Munro advises players to anticipate where the opponent is likely to serve based on their positioning. The most common position is the center of the baseline, offering flexibility for a variety of serves.
However, positioning near the T or the sideline can give players an advantage for specific serve types, such as a deep serve down the middle or a spin-oriented serve aimed to pull opponents wide off the court.
News in Brief: Jack Munro Reveals the Secret
Jack Munro’s Pickleball Masterclass focuses on the return of serve, offering players strategies for better grip, footwork, and body positioning. Munro emphasizes using a forehand-heavy approach, employing a two-handed backhand, and anticipating the serve to enhance return consistency.
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