Mixed Doubles Pickleball Dink Strategy: In mixed doubles pickleball, the dink setup is key to controlling the game, according to pros Dominic Catalano and Susannah Barr. They emphasize that strategy and teamwork are vital when preparing for the dink shot. The goal is to hit the ball in a way that sets up your partner for success while putting pressure on your opponents.
Importance of Dink Setup in Mixed Doubles
Dominic Catalano and Susannah Barr explain that in mixed doubles, women often engage in the cross-court dink exchanges, while the men need to be more aggressive and impose themselves on the play. “The male’s job is to get involved and be imposing,” said Barr.
They recommend positioning your paddle in front of you, controlling your shots, and ensuring your partner has opportunities to make strategic moves. By working together, players can make the dink more effective, both in setting up a point and in creating pressure for the opposing team.
Effective Dink Placement and Pressure
The mixed doubles strategy relies heavily on placement. For example, Catalano explained that it’s important to aim for the opponent’s inside foot, typically their backhand. This forces them to adjust and can create an opening for your partner.
Catalano also emphasized keeping the ball low to prevent the opponents from attacking. “If I can keep it down… they can’t attack anything,” he explained. Effective dinking comes down to making calculated moves and adjustments based on what the other team is doing.
Communication and Adjustments in the Game
Throughout their practice session, Barr and Catalano demonstrated how communication and on-the-fly adjustments are essential in mixed doubles. For example, when Susannah Barr saw an opportunity, she communicated with her partner and executed a well-timed shot, putting pressure on their opponents.
“Last second, she goes inside out… and now all of a sudden he pinches middle,” Catalano noted. These adjustments make the difference between maintaining control and losing the point. Catalano and Barr also showed that it’s important to play strategically rather than playing too aggressively.
Practice Drills and Key Takeaways
Catalano and Barr shared a simple drill to practice the dink setup. Players stand at the kitchen line, exchanging dink shots while focusing on controlling placement. As the game progresses, players should work on getting in the right position and creating pressure by using smart dinks.
The drill is designed to keep players focused, whether in a casual match or during a tournament. “You want to find your target spots,” Barr added, highlighting the importance of precision.
In mixed doubles, success relies on control, placement, and teamwork. By focusing on the right positioning and communication, players can set up winning shots and keep pressure on their opponents.
News in Brief: Mixed Doubles Pickleball Dink Strategy
Dominic Catalano and Susannah Barr explain the importance of dink strategy in mixed doubles pickleball. The key is smart placement, communication, and controlling the pace. Their practice tips focus on teamwork and making calculated adjustments to win points.
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