Seesaw Effect Tip in Pickleball Defense: Kyle Koszuta recently shared a simple but powerful tip to help pickleball players improve their defense right away. Speaking to players online, Koszuta explained that when the ball is hit upward, players should lower their paddles. He credited his friend Shander Wood with calling this technique the “seesaw effect.”
The Seesaw Effect Explained
Koszuta emphasized that when the ball is in the air, the opponent will likely hit it down hard. That’s why it’s important to drop your paddle low when you see the ball go up. This move helps prepare for a strong return, much like a volleyball player digging a fast spike.
“My friend Shander Wood calls this the seesaw effect. Peso, when he puts his paddle up in the air, notice my paddle goes down. The reason why is, if the ball’s up in the air, the only place your opponent is hitting it, if they’re any good, is down at the ground.” – (Koszuta)
Koszuta warned players not to keep their paddle high when facing a ball that’s rising. Instead, react by shifting the paddle down quickly.
“So don’t stand in a position with your paddle up tall. Take your paddle the moment you see the ball go up and put it down to try to defend like a volleyball player digging a volleyball.” – (Koszuta)
Recognizing Patterns on the Court
Koszuta also pointed out that improving in pickleball isn’t just about speed. Learning to read the game and recognize patterns is just as important. He stressed how often points end when shots are placed low at a player’s feet.
“Part of becoming a better pickleball player isn’t this way getting quicker quicker on the court. It’s starting to recognize patterns. And when the ball goes up, they’re trying to hit it down.” – (Koszuta)
Koszuta explained that understanding this simple defensive move helps players stay in rallies longer. That extra time in points leads to more wins.
“Because think about when you hit it down at somebody’s feet. Often, it ends the point. But if you can get this one skill down, all of a sudden, you stay in points longer, which will help you win more points, which will help you win more games, which will help you win more tournaments, which will make you the best ever or better than you are now.” – (Koszuta)
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Why It Matters
This tip from Kyle Koszuta offers players a clear way to improve their defense in matches. The “seesaw effect” can help players return tough shots more often. As Koszuta explained, this small move may lead to more rallies, wins, and even tournament success. For beginners and experienced players, it’s a lesson worth practicing.
News in Brief: Seesaw Effect Tip in Pickleball Defense
Pickleball player Kyle Koszuta shared a key defensive tip: lower your paddle when the ball goes up. He calls it the “seesaw effect,” a move that helps block hard shots. Koszuta believes this simple skill keeps players in points longer, leading to better performance and more wins over time.
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