Pickleball Kitchen Line Strategy: Linda Thompson, a seasoned pickleball coach, explained how and when the serving team should move up to the kitchen line. She emphasized that moving forward too quickly or without observing your partner can leave players vulnerable. Her guidance focuses on timing, positioning, and reading the ball off a partner’s paddle.
Thompson noted that many players make the mistake of running straight to the kitchen line without watching their partner’s third shot. This can result in being caught off guard if the shot is poor or unpredictable. Proper movement requires observing the ball and adjusting forward based on its quality.
Watching Your Partner’s Third Shot
Thompson advised that the player not hitting the third shot should watch their partner carefully. “It’s very important that you don’t just run straight up to the kitchen line. If you do that and they hit a bad shot, you’re going to be the one that eats it,” she said. By waiting and moving based on the ball’s trajectory, players maintain better control and positioning.
When to Separate from Your Partner
While partners generally stay close at the kitchen line, Thompson explained an exception. If the third shot is strong, a player can move ahead to intercept the ball, even before their partner finishes. This allows the team to maintain an advantage. “If I see my partner’s hitting a very good third… I’m going to go because I know she’s going to catch up,” she said.
Safe Movement and Positioning
Thompson stressed taking a few steps forward, observing the partner’s shot, and keeping the ball in front of the body. Running too far forward without assessing the ball can lead to defensive problems. Players may need to step back slightly if a shot requires them to defend.
Maintaining Control During Transition
The key is basing forward movement on the quality of the partner’s shot. When the shot is weak or “iffy,” the player should hold position, ready to respond. This method ensures that players stay in the point, maintain balance, and cover the court effectively.
By applying Thompson’s method, players can improve timing, avoid mistakes, and maintain strong positioning at the kitchen line. Her advice helps teams respond to different shot qualities, stay coordinated, and control the pace of the game.
News in Brief: Pickleball Kitchen Line Strategy
Pickleball coach Linda Thompson shared strategies for the serving team to move safely to the kitchen line. Observing the partner’s third shot, adjusting forward carefully, and keeping the ball in front of the body ensures better positioning. Proper movement prevents defensive mistakes and helps players maintain control during doubles play.
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