How to Spot an Elite Pickleball Player: In the dynamic and growing sport of pickleball, certain behaviors and attitudes start to separate the casual players from those at the top of their game. As the sport continues to gain popularity, recognizing these signs offers an insightful glance into the variations of the game and helps identify the elite players who dominate the courts.
Judging by the Paddle
Open-play sessions reveal a lot about a player’s mindset. The truly elite often can’t resist glancing at the paddle rack, eyeing the brands present. Occasionally, certain pickleball paddles even seem to mysteriously disappear from the rotation. This behavior reflects a preference for high-end equipment and a discerning eye for quality gear. Elite players understand the importance of using the best tools available and have a subtle disdain for less sophisticated options.
Owning Multiple Pickleball Paddles
Elite players frequently experiment with new pickleball paddles, claiming to be “trying them out.” They might blame the paddle for missed serves or poor resets, but owning more than three pickleball paddles simultaneously is a hallmark of their commitment to excellence. Exceptions are made for those holding onto a Z5 – perhaps they’re fans of Drake. This habit indicates not just dedication to the game but also a desire to stay updated with the latest trends and technologies in pickleball gear.
*insert something about dinking Drake*
Is this like an old paddle laying around situation…
Or are there people out there actually buying z5’s these days? pic.twitter.com/XDiaurbRxM
— The Dink Pickleball (@Pickleball) December 15, 2023
Scouting Ahead
Elite players often scout parks or use apps like WhatsApp or Swish to determine who is playing on any given day. This preventive move ensures encounters with only the “right” players, reinforcing a selective and exclusive approach to the game. It’s less about the joy of playing and more about maintaining a high standard of competition.
Playing Like the Pros
Poaching, a strategy in pickleball, can be highly effective when used at the right moments. However, those who constantly intercept their partner’s shots, justifying it with, “That’s how the pros do it,” are likely elite players. Particularly noticeable are men who refuse to play on the right side of a woman during recreational play. This insistence on positioning shows their adherence to professional standards and strategies, even in casual settings.
The Pickleball Coach
Taking lessons in pickleball is a surefire way to improve rapidly. Elite players often have pickleball coach who offer insights and techniques that might not be apparent to others. Conversations that habitually start with, “My coach says..,” indicate a player who not only values expert advice but also shows their access to top-tier training. This reliance on a pickleball coach’s advice becomes a marker of distinction, elevating one’s status in the pickleball community.
Playing Only with Good Players
One definitive sign of an elite player is their preference for playing with similarly skilled individuals. While everyone aims to play with better players, the elite rarely drops down a level, ensuring they remain in top-tier groups. This behavior highlights a relentless pursuit of self-improvement and a desire to associate only with the best, solidifying their position among the sport’s elite.
Asking for Names to Find DUPRs
Elite players often inquire about others’ names, sometimes even including a middle initial, under the guise of friendliness, only to later look up their DUPR score. This obsessive need to verify and compare skill levels shows a mindset focused on rankings and status within the sport. It’s a behavior typical of those who see themselves at the top tier of pickleball.
Recognizing these signs offers a humorous and insightful look into the world of elite pickleball players. Whether it’s their obsession with coaches, pickleball paddles, or scouting the best competition, these behaviors are part of what makes the sport competitive and entertaining. Embracing these traits, while remembering to enjoy the game’s communal and inclusive spirit, is the balance every player seeks.
News in Brief: How to Spot an Elite Pickleball Player
In pickleball’s growing landscape, certain behaviors distinguish elite players. These top performers often display a preference for high-end pickleball paddles, frequently own multiple ones, and scout parks or use apps to find the best competition. They are known for adhering to professional strategies, like constant poaching, and often work with pickleball coach for advanced insights.
Elite players also prefer playing with similarly skilled individuals and are keen on verifying opponents’ DUPR scores to compare skill levels. These behaviors highlight their commitment to excellence while showing the competitive nature of the sport.
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