Morgan Evans’ Banned Pickleball Paddles Advice: Morgan Evans has shared clear guidance on how to handle players using banned pickleball paddles during local recreational pickleball games. The issue was raised by Jessie from Spokane, Washington, who asked what to do when someone regularly shows up with a paddle that is no longer allowed, especially since players have been hurt. Evans emphasized that this is a serious concern for the safety and enjoyment of all players, and should be addressed directly but respectfully.
Players’ Question Paddle Use During Rec Games
The question was asked by Jessie during a Q&A with professional coach Morgan Evans. Jessie said most of the players at her local open play in Spokane are ranked between 3.0 and 4.0. While some are competitive, most just want to have fun. However, one man continues to use a paddle that has been banned, raising safety concerns.
Evans said it’s important to figure out why the person is using the banned paddle before deciding how to respond. He explained that not all players have the same reasons. Some may not know the paddle is banned.
Others may think the rules only apply to tournaments. But Evans was clear: “Ultimately, one person shouldn’t be allowed to risk the safety and enjoyment of others with their actions.”
How to Talk to Different Types of Players
Evans offered specific ways to speak to the player, depending on their personality. He suggested saying something simple at first like: “Could you please stop using that paddle? It’s banned for a reason.” He then shared several possible responses players might hear and how to reply.
The Insecure Competitor
“But this is the only paddle I can really play well with. I just started improving and I don’t want to go back to the beginner courts.”
Evans advised replying with: “We totally get that, no one wants to feel like they’re taking a step back. That said, the rest of us are trying to grow too, and the paddle is giving you a huge edge that just isn’t legal anymore. We’re not trying to punish you, we just want to keep a level playing field.”
The Ego-Driven Alpha
“It’s just rec play! If you people can’t handle it, maybe you just need to get better.”
Evans said his first reaction was personal and jokingly responded: “Who you calling YOU PEOPLE??? Australians!!?? Why don’t we take you out back, beat you with cricket balls and see how you like being delaminated!!” He added, “Ummm, sorry, that got personal (we have some of these people at our club). I’m back.”
Instead, he suggested saying: “Yeah, but rec play is also where people learn and build confidence and when people are getting hurt or discouraged then the issue becomes about safety and enjoyment of the whole group.”
The Oblivious Player
“Wait, really? I didn’t know that. I thought it was just for tournament play.”
Evans offered a kind reply: “Yeah, totally understand, it’s been confusing with all the changes. The thing is, Gerald still has a black eye and Margaret may never walk again, so we kinda need you to switch paddles.”
The Rebel
“I don’t follow USA Pickleball’s rules, they’re a joke. They just ban paddles to protect big brands.”
Evans suggested staying calm and saying: “For sure, the politics are frustrating but at the end of the day, this isn’t about a governing body, it’s about us. The paddle is clearly hard to control and few people have been injured. Whether you agree with the rule or not, we’re asking out of respect for the people playing here, not for USA Pickleball.”
Why Using a Banned Pickleball Paddle Is a Problem
Evans also pointed out that using a banned paddle can slow a player’s growth. He said players can get used to the extra power and think their technique is better than it really is. This can hurt their performance later when they have to switch to a legal paddle during a tournament.
He said, “The player will also become dependent on the paddle to do much of the work for them… their performance will take such a hit that their confidence will also suffer greatly.”
How to Approach the Conversation
Evans advised that it’s better if a small group of people who know the player well bring it up together. That way, it feels like a team concern and not a personal attack. “Stop just short of putting up an ‘INTERVENTION’ sign and you have a real chance of getting him on board,” Evans said.
News in Brief: Morgan Evans’ Banned Pickleball Paddles Advice
Pickleball coach Morgan Evans shared advice on how to deal with players using banned paddles at open play, after a question from Jessie in Spokane. Evans provided calm, respectful ways to speak with different types of players and stressed that safety and fair play matter more than any single paddle.
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