Pickleball Middle Attack Defense Drill: Pickleball coach Linda Thompson led a training session focused on how to defend attacks down the middle of the court. The lesson showed players how to decide who should take the ball when it is hit between two teammates during a game, using drills to build quick reactions and smart decision-making.
Linda Thompson explained that the main rule for handling middle attacks is based on the direction of the ball. She said, “If the ball’s coming from this side and I’m over here, the middle’s mine. If the ball’s on this side and I’m over here, the middle’s mine.” However, she reminded players that the game is not always black and white.
When to Take the Middle
Coach Linda Thompson told players to avoid reaching behind their bodies. “But what’s not okay is if I stick my paddle out and make contact here behind my body.” She said it’s better to let a partner take that ball if it lands in front of them.
She also added, “It’s not the forehand takes the middle. It’s not the taller person takes the middle. It’s not the man takes the middle. It’s where the ball’s coming from.”
Players were advised to make fast decisions based on where the ball is going and whether it is easier for them or their partner to take it. “Every now and then there’s a little bit of a variation where if you can get it before your partner in front of your body, it’s okay to take it.”
How the Drill Works
The drill involved four players at the kitchen line. “Anybody who gets an attackable ball is going to attack down the middle and the person who should be defending it needs to defend it.”
Coach Linda Thompson explained how to move during the drill. “My paddle as we’re dinking is always up. Even if I’m not the one hitting it, I’m not going to move like this. I’m moving like this so that my paddle’s ready.”
She pointed out common mistakes, such as standing too far back after hitting. “After you hit the ball, every time after you hit the ball, you’ve got to reset to your spot and be ready.”
Reading the Play and Staying Ready
Players were taught to notice when they hit an attackable ball and act quickly. “As soon as you see that you have hidden an attackable ball to the person that you need to defend it from, you need to move to that spot.”
Coach Linda Thompson gave praise and feedback during the session. “She was right on top of that line as soon as he got an attackable ball and she was all over it.”
Another key point was staying alert and returning to the ready position. “So, as soon as you see that ball come off your paddle and you know it’s attackable, you can’t just kind of mosey on over here to the middle. You got to get there right away.”
Why This Drill Matters
Linda Thompson’s drill helps players learn how to move fast, stay ready, and support their partners. Knowing who should take the middle shot helps reduce mistakes and keeps rallies alive.
As pickleball becomes more competitive and fast-paced, these skills are important for players at all levels. Training like this helps teams work together and defend their court better.
News in Brief: Pickleball Middle Attack Defense Drill
Pickleball coach Linda Thompson taught players how to defend middle attacks using a simple rule: whoever the ball is coming toward should take it. Her drill at the kitchen line helped players learn when to step in and when to hold position, making their defense sharper and more effective.
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