James Ignatowich Shares Pickleball Volleying Tips: James Ignatowich, a top professional in pickleball, recently shared his expert strategies for improving volleying technique. Addressing players who face hard-hitting opponents, James Ignatowich broke down the variations of controlling volleys and emphasized the importance of placement over power. His advice sheds light on how small adjustments in technique can significantly improve a player’s ability to stay competitive during intense exchanges at the net.
The Power of Contacting the Ball Early
James Ignatowich began by explaining the critical role of contacting the ball in front of the body during volleys. He noted that this positioning naturally directs the ball downward, leveraging the paddle’s angle to create a more challenging return for opponents.
“The more that you contact the ball in front, the more likely it is to go down,” James Ignatowich stated. He explained that this approach doesn’t rely on brute force but rather on precise control, which allows players to dictate the pace of the game.
By consistently volleying the ball downward, players force their opponents to hit from a disadvantageous position—below the waist—limiting their ability to respond with power or accuracy.
Placement Over Power
While James Ignatowich admitted to occasionally hitting with maximum power, he stressed that strategic placement should be the priority during volleys. “It’s not about hitting it as hard as you can,” he emphasized. Instead, the goal is to aim for controlled, downward shots that disrupt an opponent’s rhythm.
This strategy, he pointed out, is particularly effective against “bangers”—players known for their aggressive, hard-hitting style. By returning volleys low and forcing opponents to contact the ball from a defensive position, players can neutralize the banger’s power advantage.
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Anticipating the Opponent’s Response
James Ignatowich also highlighted the importance of anticipation in volley exchanges. Once a player executes a downward volley, the next step is to prepare for the opponent’s return, which is often a weak or defensive shot.
“If you get it down and then see them swinging on their return, just be ready to get out of the way,” he advised. This readiness not only allows players to avoid potential missteps but also positions them to capitalize on any opportunities for a decisive shot in the subsequent rally.
A Simple Yet Effective Approach
James Ignatowich showed that successful volleying doesn’t require overly complicated strategies or excessive overthinking. Instead, players should focus on the fundamentals: early contact, controlled placement, and consistent execution.
“If they make contact with the ball below their waist, what can they really do?” he remarked, emphasizing the simplicity and effectiveness of this approach. By adhering to these principles, players can elevate their volleying game and gain an edge over aggressive opponents.
News in Brief: James Ignatowich Shares Pickleball Volleying Tips
James Ignatowich, a top professional pickleball player, shared valuable strategies for improving volleying technique, particularly when facing hard-hitting opponents. He emphasized the importance of contacting the ball early and in front of the body to direct it downward, creating challenging returns for opponents.
James Ignatowich also stressed that placement should be prioritized over power, especially when playing against aggressive “bangers.” Anticipation is key, allowing players to capitalize on weak returns. By focusing on early contact, controlled placement, and consistency, players can master volleys and gain an edge, even against tough opponents. Ignatowich’s approach centers on mastering the basics.
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