Episode 1

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Published on:

21st Jun 2024

BluePrint For Success for 3.0 to 3.5 players SPECIAL REPORT

The ten shots that new players need to master to get better. Plus the Tactical skills they need and the mental toughness skills they need.

This special report will explain the Blueprint to 3.0-3.5

  1. Most new players settle in at a 3.0 to 3.75 level of play.
  2. They never really experience their true pickleball potential because they don't commit to a quality improvement plan. 
  3. They can't afford to spend $300 dollars a month on lessons (Once per week at $75 per lesson.)
  4. We need a way for everyone at OPEN play to stratify players into games based on their Skill level.

I believe that skill development is critical to enjoyment of the game. The better you play within your peer group the more enjoyable it becomes.  No-one likes to lose every game so the keys to success is…

Matching up with compatible players

Continually improving your skill to the level you want to be good at  and like I said Most Adult players end up between a 3.0 and 3.75 DUPR rating.

Physical Shots

In pickleball, mastering a variety of shots is essential for players to become recognized at the 3.0 - 3.5 level in PPA Pickleball. Here are ten fundamental shots that players should aim to master but the key difference between 3.0 and higher players shot making is the percentage accuracy on their shots. To earn your Green Paddle Band a player should average an accuracy score of 70 percent of shot done correctly

1. **Forehand and Backhand Groundstrokes**: Develop consistent and controlled groundstrokes using both the forehand and backhand sides to maintain rallies and control the pace of the game.

2. **Serve**: Mastering different types of serves, including the traditional underhand serve, topspin serve, and slice serve, with accuracy and placement to start points effectively.


3. **Return of Serve**: Practice returning serves with precision and depth to neutralize opponents' serves and set up favorable positions for the rally.


4. **Volleys**: Learn to execute volleys confidently at the net, both on the forehand and backhand sides, to capitalize on opportunities and finish points quickly.


5. **Block**: Develop the ability to block opponents' shots, particularly hard drives or smashes, with control and accuracy to keep the ball in play and regain offensive position.


6. **Dinks**: Develop soft and controlled dink shots to engage in the delicate and strategic aspect of the game, maintaining consistency and placement while at the kitchen line.


7. **Third Shot Drop**: Master the third shot drop, a crucial shot in pickleball strategy, to initiate the transition from the baseline to the kitchen line and gain control of the net.


8. **Lobs**: Practice executing defensive lobs to counter opponents' aggressive shots and create opportunities to reset the point or transition to a more offensive position.


9. **Smash**: Learn to smash effectively when presented with high balls or opportunities to put away overhead shots, 


10.  Proper Unit turn shot mechanics; Use the power of your legs and core to create consistent shot making

By mastering these essential shots and developing proficiency in fundamental skills such as movement, positioning, and shot selection, players can progress to become recognized 3.0 level players in PPA Pickleball. Consistent practice, proper technique, and strategic understanding of the game are key to achieving success at this level.

Tactical SKills

Serve deep and in

Return serve deep with a shot shape that allows you to approach the NVZ

Hit a soft unattackable ball on any ball below the net height.

Attack only balls above the net height

Get to the NVZ on a good return Stop and ready on a bad return

Mental Skills

Learn to control what you can control and not worry about the rest

Set your goals

Set a practice plan

Play the ball not the person

Set your own par

Wait one heart beat Don’t rush

Journal your sessions

See the ball

Mentioned in this episode:

Introduction

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About the Podcast

Pickleball Simplified
The Shots, Tactics and Mental Skills Needed to Become a Competitive Player
The Pickleball Simplified Podcast helps frustrated pickleball players, yearning to improve their game, unlock the secrets to faster and easier improvement so they can become more confident, more consistent, have more fun, and win more games. Our Simplified approach to training physical, tactical and mental skills, leads to faster development, more fun and higher rankings. Learn to be a Confident, Calm and Competitive Player at: www.confidentcalmandcompetitivepickleball.com

About your host

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Coach Greg Rx

Coach Greg RX is a PPA Certified Pickleball Coach who has been coaching athletes to success since 1992. He has unique expertise in Skill Development training and assessment as a professor and dean. His unique style of teaching and coaching helps players build confidence, get better faster, learn to play under control and become competitive at the level they want to compete.