Pickleball tip of the week: Try these two types of overhead smashes
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The overhead smash is always a fun and satisfying way to end a rally, but not all overhead smashes are the same.
If you have not seen the already-covered overhead techniques demonstrated by instructors Callie Smith, Tanner Tomassi, Jordan Briones and others, be sure to check out their YouTube feeds on this topic. But this week, I wanted to look at two shots I have not yet covered in this column.
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Coach Mary's Tip of the Week: Try these two ways to attack overheads
(Remember, you can watch accompanying videos at desertsun.com. Just search pickleball and click on this article. That may be even more important than usual this week.)
The first one is the topspin overhead roundhouse smash.
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The team at bangitpickleball on Instagram showcase a rally that ends with a topspin forehand roundhouse and here are some key points.
- This shot comes into play when you first try to shuffle slide back to attack a lob with an overhead on the forehand side, but you find that it is already past you.
- You do not have time to turn and run past it to lob, since you started too late.
- Keep your paddle are extended behind you, rather “than scratching your back.”
- Reach back, and try to get on top of the ball, creating topspin and following through towards the net and across your body.
- We worked on this in my advanced class today, and some players said they already find themselves doing this in games.
The other shot to consider is the overhead backhand smash.
Instructors Tanner Tomassi and Hannah Blatt discuss the secrets to a successful one.
- Step one: if your partner is not about to hit the overhead smash, this is your chance to help them on the backhand side.
- Step two: take a step backwards, coil your shoulder, the use your wrist to snap it down.
- Step three: know that this is not an outright winner. You are aiming at your opponent’s feet, so when you snap it down, you are ready for the next shot.
Both players emphasize that this shot will help avoid having to retreat and run down your opponent’s lob. You will keep your position of power at the NVZ.
Opportunity to play
Upcoming Indoor Round Robin: June 28th at the Desert Recreation District gym at Civic Center Park. Email me: [email protected] for more information. All skill levels welcome!
This article originally appeared on Palm Springs Desert Sun: Pickleball tip of the week: Try these two types of overhead smashes