DETA Pickleball is a space for players of all levels to build their confidence on the court. Mastering fundamental skills is essential for members to feel competent in their abilities and maintain composure during challenging moments. Club Director and Head Pro Stéphane Jolicoeur says, “Having solid fundamentals gives a player a lot of confidence because they know that they can rely on going back to the basics to regain or gain the necessary consistency that will help them get back in the match if they are not playing well.” These fundamentals are currently offered in an “Introduction to Pickleball” class where beginners are taught the rules of the game. They get familiar with the ball and paddle and go through a few easy drills to get used to the movements. There’s also a “basics” class for people who already play the sport. Players practice the different strokes, learn where to position themselves on the court, and grasp the flow of the game.
DETA is currently planning a few different group lessons that offer specific skills, giving members the option to work on a singular aspect of their game that might need a little more work. Improving and perfecting specific strokes, strategies, and gameplay, and learning and working on the soft game are three classes that are planned to show up in the near future. It’s predicted that these classes will be smaller than clinics, which will allow players to get more attention.
Drilling is all about repetition, and, while it may not be the most enjoyable task, it definitely yields results. However, Jolicoeur warns, “You have to make sure you are repeating the right things; otherwise, you can sit there and do the wrong thing, creating bad habits.” There are lots of useful pickleball drills to practice, but a few that Jolicoeur suggests are dinking back and forth, doing a figure 8 where one player goes down the line while the other goes cross-court, and the slinky drill. The slinky drill focuses on maintaining control, consistency, and touch, while also improving footwork and positioning. Players typically start close to the net and gradually move backward as they continue hitting shots, mimicking the stretching and compressing motion of a slinky. It helps players develop a smooth and fluid playing style while also enhancing their ability to react and adjust to different shots.
Once members begin building their foundational skill set, their confidence grows as a result. Jolicoeur says, “The majority of the game is mental. Pickleball is a game of mistakes and patience. So having the discipline to stay patient and pick the right shots is something that doesn’t come as easily as one may think.” If a player doesn’t have the basics, it’s likely their mental game will take a hit. She adds, “[if a player’s] special shot is not working, they can rely on their basic shot as it is consistent, still forcing their opponents to hit the ball while staying consistent themselves. And as a player is able to get their game back, the confidence builds and they can do more.”
DETA Pickleball encourages player growth across all skill levels, emphasizing mastery of fundamental skills for confidence and success on the court. Mental resilience is crucial, empowering players to make strategic decisions and thrive in challenging scenarios. As players develop foundational skills and confidence, they inevitably elevate their game.
