Pickleball Partner Strategy Tips: Coach Tony Roig, a 55-year-old senior pro and full-time pickleball coach, has shared three helpful tips for players over 50 looking to improve their performance during recreational games. The advice is focused on real situations many players face when playing with partners who are less experienced.
Tip 1: Adjust When Your Partner Stays Back
Coach Tony Roig explained that one of the most common issues is when a partner doesn’t move up to the non-volley zone after returning a serve. This can put pressure on the front player.
“What I’m going to do in a wreck game when I’m playing with a partner who will not come up to the non-body zone line after they return is I am simply going to go back to the baseline and stand next to them.”(Tony Roig)
Instead of correcting or arguing with the partner, Roig recommends staying supportive and matching their position.
“I’m gonna play wherever you want to play. If I notice that you’re playing back at the baseline, I’ll play with you here. If you want to move forward, I’ll follow you up,” (Tony Roig).
Tip 2: Don’t Rush Forward Without Thinking
Switching to the serve side, Coach Tony Roig warned against blindly rushing forward during a partner’s third shot drop. Many recreational players don’t hit strong drops, so moving up too quickly can leave one vulnerable.
“Rather than blindly running forward is make an assessment of your partner’s ability to hit a third shot drop and then use that information to make a decision.”(Tony Roig)
If a partner is skilled, it may be safe to move up. If not, it’s better to stay back and wait. Roig also mentioned that he offers a free guide to help players understand myths and improve their strategies.
Tip 3: Respect Boundaries on the Court
Another common issue happens when players are unsure about taking shots from their partner’s side of the court. Many view the center line as a firm divider, but Roig explained that poaching (stepping across to take a shot) can be smart if it helps the team.
Still, he emphasized being aware of your partner’s comfort.
“If you get paired with a partner or a player who does not care for you to come over and poach, then our recommendation would be not to poach,” (Tony Roig).
Roig encouraged players to talk with their partners if possible, but to avoid crossing boundaries if the partner seems uncomfortable.
News in Brief: Pickleball Partner Strategy Tips
Coach Tony Roig, a senior pro pickleball coach, offered three tips for better recreational play. His advice focused on adjusting your position based on your partner’s skill, avoiding unsafe rushes to the net, and respecting partner boundaries during games. The tips aim to boost teamwork and enjoyment in recreational pickleball.
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