James Ignatowich’s Secret Step-Back Technique: In the latest instructional video shared on Instagram, professional pickleball player James Ignatowich provides critical advice for players looking to improve their volley game. While volleys are often associated with power and speed, Ignatowich stresses that control, precision, and proper body positioning are the true keys to success when executing a volley, especially in intense situations.
The key takeaway from Ignatowich’s video is the importance of avoiding the common mistake of leaning back or jumping when hitting a backhand counter. This, he explains, can result in a mis-hit ball that sails long, leaving the player vulnerable to their opponent’s next shot. Instead, Ignatowich demands a subtle but crucial adjustment: taking a step back in order to hit the ball with better control and precision.
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The Problem: Leaning Back on Volleys
A common mistake that many pickleball players make when attempting to hit a volley is leaning back or jumping. This often happens when an opponent hits a hard shot, creating pressure on the returning player to react quickly. Ignatowich notes that the instinct to lean back or jump might feel like a natural response to a fast ball, but it ultimately results in a lack of control.
“Leaning back creates a poor angle, and your body is misaligned, making it harder to get a solid hit. When you’re in the air or leaning back, it’s very easy to let the ball sail deep, or you end up hitting the ball late.” – (James Ignatowich)
This issue becomes even more apparent when players are faced with a strong counter shot.
The Solution: A Step Back for Control
Instead of leaning back or jumping, James Ignatowich demands stepping back from the line. He emphasizes that taking a step back allows players to maintain a strong and balanced stance, keeping their center of mass forward. This small adjustment, he argues, gives players the time and space needed to better control the shot and direct it with accuracy.
“I tell players to stay low, and if you need to give yourself more time, take that step back. This helps you stay balanced and in control of your shot, ensuring that you can still direct the ball with a downward trajectory.” – (James Ignatowich)
By stepping back, players can position themselves in such a way that they can execute a counter shot without losing the power of their positioning.
The Importance of the Downward Trajectory
For James Ignatowich, the most important aspect of a successful volley is not hitting the ball hard, but hitting it with the proper downward trajectory.
“It’s not about how hard you hit the ball. The key is making sure that the ball goes down into the court, not up into the air.” – (James Ignatowich)
This downward trajectory is what ensures that the shot stays in play and forces the opponent to react. By staying low and adjusting position with a subtle step back, players can more effectively control their volley and force the opponent to play on their terms. This focus on trajectory, rather than sheer power, is a hallmark of James Ignatowich’s playing philosophy.
News in Brief: James Ignatowich’s Secret Step-Back Technique
In his latest video, professional pickleball player James Ignatowich advises players to improve their volley game by avoiding the common mistake of leaning back or jumping during a backhand counter.
Instead, he suggests taking a step back to maintain balance and control. James Ignatowich emphasizes the importance of a downward trajectory, not power, for successful volleys. This small adjustment helps players stay in control and execute precise counter shots, making it a crucial technique for high-level pickleball.
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