A Chess Match

Positioning

Pickleball is called by many " a chess match".  This is in reference to the importance of being in the right position to return the ball successfully. 

Depending on your teams positioning, you are either 1. Have the Advantage 2. Are at a Disadvantage or 3. Playing even

Let me explain.

Given two equally matched teams, you will have the advantage when both of you are at the NVZ line and your opposition is not. Conversely, when either you or your partner are somewhere between the baseline and the NVZ line, while both opponents are at the NVZ, your team is at a disadvantage.

When both teams are in the same positioning, you are playing even.

For good players it is easy to put the ball at your feet, low to your backhand, or drop it over the net when you are away from the NVZ. It is much harder for them to make a successful lob over two players heads.

When you are up at the line it is nearly impossible to put a hard shot at your feet because the net is protecting you unless a ball is hit high and a slam is the result.

Also, remember that when your partner needs to move left or right to get a ball, move yourself from your partner as if you are connected by a ten foot pole. This way the center of the court is protected and the opposition must make a more difficult shot.

Finally, be careful when you poach onto your partners space to make a shot. You must have a high probability that the ball won't be returned because if it is, you have just left one side of the court wide open.

See you on the circuit.......  Peter