Pickleball Only Drops Drill Technique: Pickleball mental coach DJ Howard introduced a challenging training game called “Only Drops” to help players improve their drop shot skills. This advanced three-player drill pushes one player to control shots while covering the entire baseline, aiming to drop balls into the non-volley zone against two defenders.
How the Drill Works
In this game, one player stands alone on the far side baseline. That player’s only goal is to hit drop shots that land inside the non-volley zone. The other two players, acting as a doubles team, work to stop them from scoring by returning shots away from the kitchen.
“The single player has to cover the entire baseline. Our job as a doubles team… is to make that player work hard.”(DJ Howard)
The baseline player only scores if the ball touches inside the non-volley zone. The doubles team cannot hit drop shots or unfair angles but may hit anywhere toward the baseline.
Movement, Control, and Focus
Throughout the drill, players focus on movement and ball control. DJ Howard emphasized that the single player must stay patient and soft with their shots, even while running to reach every ball.
“You can see right away this is going to be a lot of work for that baseline player. Really important to use the legs… to control that ball into the non-volley zone.”(DJ Howard)
Player Damien demonstrated the drill and reached six points early on, but the effort was clear.
“Damien’s at six points… he’s been over there a long time,”( DJ Howard).
The game pushes physical and mental endurance. DJ Howard reminded players that only clean drop shots count, and anything short or wide does not.
Pushing Toward the Goal
As the drill nears its end, the baseline player continues to earn points with accurate drop shots. The final goal is to reach 21 points.
“Let’s fast forward to 19 points… that’s 20… 21. Well played,”
DJ Howard said, recognizing Damien’s success.
Even though the doubles team is not trying to score themselves, they remain focused on keeping the baseline player moving and challenged.
“We want that player to work on their drop shots… over and over and over again,”(DJ Howard).
A Drill That Demands Discipline
This game is more than just practice. It builds essential skills and confidence. It’s not about winning or losing but helping players sharpen their ability to control soft shots under pressure. The drill teaches players to move with speed and stay calm while aiming for the kitchen zone.
News in Brief: Pickleball Only Drops Drill Technique
Pickleball coach DJ Howard created “Only Drops,” a 2-vs-1 drill to improve drop shots. One player covers the full baseline, aiming to land balls in the non-volley zone while two others defend. The game builds endurance, control, and precision for players seeking advanced pickleball training.
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