Allyce Wilson-Jones Shares ‘Slinky Ball Drill’: Professional pickleball player Allyce Wilson-Jones recently shared a new drill on Instagram aimed at helping players sharpen their court movement and shot control. The drill, aptly named the “Slinky Ball Drill,” provides a practical exercise for players looking to improve their positioning and adaptability during a game.
In the video, Wilson-Jones begins by explaining the setup and purpose of the drill. “This drill is called the slinky ball drill,” she states, standing at the baseline, ready to demonstrate. The drill requires two players: one starting at the baseline and the other positioned at the kitchen line. “My partner’s gonna start at the kitchen line, and they’re gonna feed me a ball like it’s their return,” she continues, outlining the sequence.
The goal of the drill is to replicate the back-and-forth movement often required during a match, where players must advance and retreat in response to the flow of play. “I’m gonna hit my 3rd, and I’m gonna work my way in,” Wilson-Jones explains, describing how the player moves forward towards the kitchen line, a crucial position in pickleball strategy.
Once at the kitchen line, the drill shifts to a defensive maneuver. “Once I get to the kitchen line, then I’m working my way back,” she adds, demonstrating how players might need to backpedal while maintaining control of the ball. “You just go back and forth just like a slinky,” Wilson-Jones says, drawing an analogy to the toy’s elastic motion.
The drill is versatile and can be adapted for different situations. “You can also do it cross or straight on either side,” Wilson-Jones suggests, showing its applicability for both forehand and backhand practice. She emphasizes the importance of footwork and readiness: “Always set, keeping the ball out in front of me, and then going back in,” she advises, stressing the need to stay balanced and prepared for the next shot.
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Throughout the demonstration, Wilson-Jones makes it clear that the drill is not only about moving forward but also about maintaining control and precision when forced to retreat. This dual focus makes the “Slinky Ball Drill” an excellent exercise for players at all levels who are looking to enhance their court coverage and shot consistency.
As pickleball continues to grow in popularity, drills like these are invaluable tools for both new and experienced players. By sharing her expertise and techniques through social media, Wilson-Jones contributes to the development of the game and encourages players to elevate their skills. The “Slinky Ball Drill” is a testament to the importance of movement, control, and adaptability in pickleball, qualities that Wilson-Jones embodies as a professional athlete.
Whether preparing for competitive play or simply looking to improve their game, players can benefit from incorporating drills like the “Slinky Ball Drill” into their practice routine. Wilson-Jones’s clear, concise instructions and dedication to sharing her knowledge serve as a valuable resource for the pickleball community, helping players of all skill levels to keep “drillin'” and refining their game.
News in Brief: Allyce Wilson-Jones Shares ‘Slinky Ball Drill’
Professional pickleball player Allyce Wilson-Jones introduced the “Slinky Ball Drill” on Instagram, a new exercise designed to enhance court movement and shot control. In the video, she demonstrates the drill’s sequence: one player feeds balls from the kitchen line while the other advances and retreats, mimicking match conditions. The drill emphasizes footwork, balance, and adaptability, with Wilson-Jones highlighting its versatility for both forehand and backhand practice. This exercise aims to improve players’ ability to handle dynamic game situations and maintain control during play. Wilson-Jones’s tutorial is a valuable resource for players looking to elevate their skills.
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