Breaking Down the Pickleball Erne: In pickleball, one of the most effective ways to gain an advantage on the court is to become a constant threat. By limiting an opponent’s options, players can control the flow of the game and force mistakes. The Erne is a key pickleball technique that eliminates options for opponents, allowing the player to seize control of the point.
What is the Erne?
The Erne is a strategic move in which a player jumps around, over, or through the kitchen to get closer to the net. By doing so, they can take control of the point and either put the ball away or gain an advantage. The goal is to approach the net without violating the kitchen rules. As long as a player jumps outside the sideline and lands outside the sideline, the move is legal. However, jumping on the kitchen line or landing on the sideline is considered a violation.
Clarifying the Rules of the Erne
A common misconception about the Erne involves whether players can cross the plane of the net. According to the rules, players are allowed to cross over the net during their follow-through, as long as they make contact with the ball on their side of the court. If the paddle touches the net, or if contact is made on the opponent’s side, it’s a violation, and the point is lost. The key is that the paddle must not touch the net, and players must return to their side of the court after executing the move.
Key Scenarios for the Erne
Triggering the Erne: Back Foot and Head Down
One of the key indicators for executing an Erne is observing the opponent’s position, rather than the direction of the ball. If the opponent receives a down-the-line shot and is caught on their back foot with their head down, it creates an opportunity to make a move. When an opponent is off balance, their return will likely be more lofty, providing a window to jump through the kitchen and attack.
Preparing the Footwork:
- Level 1 Footwork: Run around the kitchen by stepping off the left foot, landing on the right, and positioning perpendicular to the sideline to strike the ball.
- Level 2 Footwork: Jump through the kitchen. The jump must start behind the kitchen line and land outside the sideline, staying legal. This move is similar to a “Superman” leap.
The Split Line Erne: A Less Common but Effective Move
The split line Erne is a less frequently taught technique but can be highly effective for more athletic players. The trigger for this move occurs when the opponent crosses in front of the line, typically resulting in a dink aimed at the corner. At this point, a player can execute the Erne by jumping through the kitchen, getting closer to the net, and applying pressure on the opponent.
Capitalizing on a Baseline Drop Shot:
In a scenario where the third shot lands within the player’s zone, the Baseline Drop Erne in pickleball is an effective way to gain an advantage. This move pressures the opponent and limits their options, making their shots more predictable and easier to anticipate. If an opponent crosses the split line and moves toward the net, it’s a strong cue to look for an opportunity to execute the Erne.
Mastering the Timing of the Erne
One common pickleball mistake when learning the Erne is moving too early. If a player commits too soon, the opponent will likely notice and place the ball where the player cannot reach it. The key to successfully executing the Erne is timing the move correctly. Waiting until the opponent makes contact with the ball ensures the element of surprise, making the Erne a far more effective pickleball tactic.
News in Brief: Breaking Down the Pickleball Erne
The Erne is a powerful move in pickleball that allows pickleball players to get closer to the net and take control of the point. It involves jumping around or over the kitchen, to gain an advantage without violating court rules. By observing specific cues, such as an opponent being off-balance or a shot landing within their zone, pickleball players can effectively time their Erne for maximum impact. Proper footwork and precise timing are crucial to successfully executing this pickleball technique.
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