Pickleball Around The Post Defense: Kyle Koszuta, a well-known pickleball player, shares two key techniques for defending the challenging Around The Post (ATP) shot in pickleball. When an opponent hits a wide dink, many players assume the point is over, but Koszuta explains how to guard against this shot effectively.
Defending the ATP Shot: Two Key Tips
The first way to defend the ATP shot is by using a “drop diagonal.” Many players make the mistake of either standing still or just moving sideways when they face an ATP situation. Koszuta recommends creating more space and time by moving diagonally and positioning yourself properly.
The second tip involves dropping the paddle. Since most ATP shots come in low, lowering your paddle allows you to handle the shot effectively. If the ball comes higher, Koszuta advises letting the ball fly and not attempting to intercept it.
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Another Defensive Strategy: Attacking the ATP
Koszuta also shares a more aggressive way to handle the ATP shot. He refers to a technique seen in the past by Kyle Yates and more recently by Jack Monroe. When your opponent drops diagonally to hit their ATP shot, you can take advantage of this and move toward the net to intercept the ball with an ATP of your own.
This technique puts pressure on the opponent and allows you to control the point, showing how to turn a defensive moment into an opportunity for attack.
News in Brief: Pickleball Around The Post Defense
Kyle Koszuta provides helpful tips for defending the Around The Post shot in pickleball. He suggests using a “drop diagonal” and dropping the paddle to handle low shots. Koszuta also explains how players can use the ATP shot to their advantage, following techniques used by Kyle Yates and Jack Monroe.
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