Bangers to Dinker

Presented by Tim Smith

Developing the 3rd Shot Drop for the player who: Has started playing pickleball and only drives the ball!

Has been playing a couple months and does not understand why there is a No Volley Zone! Does not know how to use the No Volley Zone as a strategic way to win! Is starting to play players who have strong volley skills at the No Volley Zone.

What are the 3rd shot options?

Your choice is Drive, Lob, or Drop!

The Drive is used by newer players to the game. It is used by tennis players, a lot! The Lob is used sometimes. The Drop Shot!

So, WHY a Drop Shot as the 3rd Shot?

Per the rules, the serving team has to let the ball bounce. With the returning team at the No Volley Zone and the Serving team at the baseline, the returning team has a tactical advantage that gives them approximately a 75% chance to win the point. Two key factors for the serving team on the 3rd shot

The 3rd Shot Drop offers a player/team another strategic option!

How to Introduce the 3rd Shot Drop to your players!

Demo the 3rd Shot Drop

Self-Feed, Drop Shot, and Catch

Pro Feed “pickleball tube” target drill

Student NVZ line Feed to Baseline Mid Court & Baseline

½ court game with 3rd Shot Drop Rule

Full Court Doubles

Notes for consideration!

This is an introduction to the 3rd shot. Your players will vary, based on skill, as to what is an “easy” ball to attempt the 3rd shot drop, what is “challenging” to attempt as a 3rd shot drop and what is “impossible”. Challenge your players to try 3rd shot drops in their fun/rec play.

The above drills can be altered as your players improve on their 3rd shot drops.

What to do on Good, OK, and Bad 3rd shot ball attempts

Entering the transition zone for the 5th shot drop

With the ability to hit good 3rd shot drops and advance to the No Volley Zone, your players can implement the Dinking Game of Pickleball!

Closing Q&A Time