Changing the Direction of the Ball

Many times we get caught in long, crosscourt dinking rallies which can tempt us to do something different - mid-rally. Usually, that means looking for an opportunity to attack, to turn the dinking into an exchange of volleys.

Changing the direction of the ball in pickleball is a crucial skill that can help you gain an advantage over your opponents and break free from prolonged crosscourt dinking exchanges.

Not to mention, it’s an opportunity to insert some creativity into the rally, however, it's essential to choose the right moments and shots to change the direction effectively. 

Let's dive in...

Image Credit: Sarah Ansboury Pickleball

Initial thoughts when trying to redirect the ball:

- At the non-volley zone

- Take the ball out of the air, as a volley, if the ball is coming at you with a mid-to-slow pace or a looping trajectory

- Have an idea of where you want to place the ball a few shots ahead 

- Watch your opponent's paddle to anticipate the redirect as much as possible

Angle Shots: Try to angle your shots diagonally to the side, moving away from your opponent's strong side (usually their forehand). This can create an opening on the court and force your opponents to cover more ground.

Drop Shots: Instead of attacking high-bouncing balls aggressively, use drop shots when your opponents hit the ball too high over the net. Drop shots are soft, controlled shots that can land close to the net, making it difficult for your opponents to retrieve them.

Crosscourt to the Middle: Change the direction of your shots by directing them towards the middle of the court, between your two opponents. This can create confusion about who should take the shot and increase the chances of an unforced error on their part.

Change the Pace: Vary the speed of your shots. If you've been engaged in a series of slow dinks, surprise your opponents with a quicker, well-placed shot that changes the tempo of the rally.

Image credit: Just Paddles

Use the Windshield Wiper Motion: Develop a windshield wiper motion with your paddle to add spin and direction to your shots. This technique allows you to change the angle of the ball effectively.

Lobbing: If you find yourself in a crosscourt dinking battle and want to change the direction of the ball, consider hitting a lob. A well-executed lob can catch your opponents off guard, forcing them to retreat to the baseline and giving you time to reposition or attack.

Be Patient: Changing the direction doesn't mean you have to rush. Wait for the right opportunity, such as a high, floaty ball or an off-balance opponent, before attempting a directional change.

Practice Control: Spend time practicing control shots that allow you to place the ball precisely where you want it. Develop your touch and finesse to execute directional changes accurately.

Communication: If you're playing doubles, communicate with your partner about your intentions to change direction. Coordination between partners is crucial in executing directional changes effectively.

Image credit: The Art of Pickleball

Remember that changing the direction of the ball should be a calculated decision, not a hasty one. It's about taking advantage of opportunities and exploiting your opponent's weaknesses.

Practice these techniques and develop your court awareness to make strategic directional changes that can give you the upper hand in a pickleball match.

Pro Tip: When thinking of changing direction of the ball, go in with the mindset of being less predictable to your opponents.

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