Callie Jo Smith’s Eye-Opening Pickleball Tip: In the sport of professional pickleball, there’s no room for admiring one’s shot mid-game. Pro player Callie Jo Smith shared her thoughts on a common mistake in pickleball that many players make—failing to prepare for the next shot after executing a good one. In a recent Instagram video, Smith emphasizes the importance of constantly staying ready, even after landing a seemingly perfect shot.
The Myron Ball Mistake in Pickleball
Smith identifies what she calls the “Myron ball” syndrome —when players hit a good shot and then stop to admire it, rather than getting into position for the next play. This tendency to pause can be costly, especially when a point is still in play. Smith stresses that a good shot does not automatically end the rally. “People will hit and then just watch, instead of recovering for the next shot.” she explains, noting that this leaves players vulnerable to a quick counterattack from their opponent.
Always Prepare for the Next Shot in Pickleball
Smith’s approach is clear: always be ready for the ball to come back. Even after delivering a strong shot, the expectation should be that the rally continues. She points out that the best players are always thinking two steps ahead, never assuming that a shot is a guaranteed winner. Her advice for players at any level is to stay focused on positioning, keeping the paddle and the body ready to react to whatever comes next.
The Importance of Recovery in Pickleball
One of Smith’s key points is the necessity of quick recovery after every shot. “Hit and get ready,” she advises. By doing so, players can stay in the game and maintain an offensive posture. She acknowledges that while landing a great shot can be satisfying, the real focus should be on preparing for the next challenge.
“It’s not about hitting one winner; it’s about staying in the point.” – (Smith)
Developing Better Habits on the Court
Callie Jo Smith’s Instagram video serves as a reminder to players at all levels to avoid falling into the trap of self-admiration. Instead, she encourages players to adopt better habits, like maintaining a low-ready position and keeping their eyes on the next shot. Her simple yet effective advice—“hit and get ready”—is a practice that can benefit amateurs and pros, ensuring they stay one step ahead in every rally.
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Always Ready, Always Thinking
Callie Jo Smith’s message is straightforward but critical for pickleball success. Whether in practice or competition, players should never assume that a single great shot will win the point. By staying mentally and physically prepared for the next move, players can elevate their game and increase their chances of staying in control of the match.
News in Brief: Callie Jo Smith’s Eye-Opening Pickleball Tip
Pro pickleball player Callie Jo Smith highlights a common mistake in pickleball—admiring one’s shot instead of preparing for the next play. In a recent Instagram video, Smith refers to this as the “Myron ball” syndrome, where players hit a good shot but fail to recover quickly, leaving them vulnerable to counterattacks.
She advises players to always be ready for the ball to return, stressing that positioning and recovery are key to staying in control. Smith’s mantra, “hit and get ready,” encourages players to focus on continuous play rather than celebrating a single shot, helping them improve their game.
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