Players with fast feet are tough opponents because they have an ability to track down most shots. However, quick picklers usually have some weaknesses in their mechanics, strokes, shot selection, or some other skill set because they can rely on their fast feet to keep them in the point. To defeat the quick picklers, try the following strategies:

1. Be Patient – When you play quick picklers, you may feel as if you need to be more perfect and hit lines or great angles on the court. Do not overplay. You do not need to hit lines or great angles, which can lead to unforced errors. Rather, be patient and continue to hit the pickleball back to your opponents. Let the point play out and take advantage of an opportunity when it presents itself. Again, be patient and do not overplay.

2. Be Ready for the Pickleball to Come Back – Quick picklers can run down a lot of shots that most other players are unable to. Be ready for shots to be returned by quick picklers due to these fast feet. Always be ready!

3. Make Your Opponents Hit Another Shot – As mentioned above, quick picklers generally rely on their quickness to keep them in the point, so the quality of their shots may not be as strong as other players. Continue to challenge the quick picklers to hit another shot. As you make the quick picklers run across the court for another shot, more and more space will open up on the court. Also, to note, it is uncommon for both of your opponents to be equally as fast. Oftentimes, as one partner is running down to track shots, the other partner is confused on where to stand on the court. So, stay patient, remain ready, and continue to make the quick picklers hit another shot.

Key Takeaways:

1. To defeat the quick picklers:

a. Be patient;

b. Always expect the pickleball to come back; and

c. Make your opponents hit one more shot.