The Art of Stacking: Pickleball might appear to be all about flashy athletic moves and impressive highlight-reel shots. However, it’s often the subtle, strategic patterns and tactics that define success at the highest levels. One of the most frequently used pickleball strategies by pro players is stacking. By positioning two players on their preferred sides, stacking aims to give them an advantage when returning serves. However, stacking comes with a vulnerability. When opponents stack, a well-placed wide serve can stretch the returner, leaving the court open for a drive or drop shot. The key takeaway here is to recognize stacking as a tactic with inherent weaknesses. By serving deep into the corners and driving or dropping into the open court, players can force their opponents to cover more ground, creating opportunities for easier transitions to the kitchen line.
The Importance of Communication and the Threat of the Ernie
When two players team up for the first time, communication can often break down. In pickleball, this is especially true for middle balls, where a lack of verbal communication can result in confusion and a clash of paddles. Pro pickleball players who have partnered for years may rely on non-verbal cues, but beginners or new teams should be loud and clear when calling their shots. Meanwhile, one of the most disruptive moves on the court is the Ernie—an aggressive move where the player steps around the kitchen line to intercept a shot. Even the mere threat of an Ernie can throw off opponents’ concentration, as they are forced to keep one eye on the ball and the other on the potential for a sudden attack.
News In Brief: The Art of Stacking
Whether you’re a seasoned player or a newcomer to the sport, understanding these fundamental pickleball tactics and implementing them into your game can elevate your performance. By recognizing the weaknesses in stacking, communicating clearly with your partner, and using the threat of the Ernie, you can gain a significant advantage.
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