Mastering the Return of Serve: Coach Tony Roig, a 55-year-old senior professional pickleball player and master teaching pro, says the Return of Serve is the most important shot for players over 50 to master. This shot happens often during matches but is often overlooked. Improving it helps reduce points lost and makes it harder for opponents to attack early.
Why the Return of Serve Matters
The Return of Serve is one of the most frequently used shots in pickleball. Despite this, many players do not practice it enough. Coach Tony Roig explains that improving this shot can stop opponents from taking control of the game too quickly. A strong return helps players stay on the defensive and keeps opponents from gaining easy points.
How to Improve the Return of Serve
To get better, players should aim to hit their returns deep—about four feet from the baseline. A deep return keeps the ball far from the net and prevents quick attacks from opponents. It also gives the player more time to move forward to the non-volley zone (NVZ), also known as the kitchen.
Coach Tony Roig also advises making sure the return clears the net by enough height. Returns that skim too close to the net often lead to mistakes. Proper net clearance helps the return go deeper naturally, without extra effort.
Benefits for Players Over 50
Coach Tony Roig highlights three main benefits of hitting deep returns for senior players:
- More time to reach the kitchen: Older players may move more slowly, so extra time helps them get into position for the next shot.
- Limits early attacks: Short returns let opponents hit powerful shots fast. Deep returns reduce this pressure.
- Controls the third shot: A deep return forces opponents to hit their third shot from the back of the court, giving the returning player a defensive advantage.
Coach Tony Roig reminds players that while the Return of Serve might not seem exciting, it is the most important shot in pickleball. Senior players who focus on it will see big improvements. He stresses that using a smart strategy and pickleball IQ is more important than raw power.
By practicing this key shot, players over 50 can stay competitive and improve their game by controlling points and reducing easy errors.
News in Brief: Mastering the Return of Serve
Coach Tony Roig, a 55-year-old pro, says players over 50 must master the Return of Serve. A deep return with good net clearance helps stop early attacks and gives players more time to reach the kitchen. Focusing on this shot can boost defense and match success for senior players.
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