Resolve middle balls with an early call and the player who has the stronger, safer contact—not a rigid forehand rule.
Equipment
- Pickleball paddles
- Pickleballs
- Pickleball court
- Ball basket
Setup
Two partners begin at the non-volley line or in transition. A feeder stands opposite with a basket and sends balls near the middle seam at varied heights and angles.
How to run it
1. Before the bounce or contact, partners make one clear call: “mine,” “yours,” or “bounce.”
2. The called player plays a controlled target while the partner covers the next likely ball.
3. Award one communication point for a clear early call and one execution point for a balanced contact.
4. After six feeds, pause to agree on one seam rule for the next round.
5. Progress to a live rally after the middle feed.
Coach Dave’s cues
Consider distance, movement direction, balance, contact height, and agreed roles. The best contact changes with the ball. Keep calls early, short, and useful.
Watch for
Calling late, assuming forehand always wins, both players swinging, stopping after the first contact, or turning the pause into a long technical lecture.