Practice an appropriate speed-up, compact defensive block, and controlled counter while both teams stay ready for the next ball.
Equipment
- Pickleball paddles
- Pickleballs
- Pickleball court
Setup
Four players begin at the non-volley-zone lines. Start each sequence with two or more cooperative dinks before a designated team may speed up.
How to run it
1. Dink cooperatively until the attacking team receives a ball it can contact from balance.
2. Speed up to a safe body-edge or open-court target.
3. The defender chooses a short block or compact counter.
4. Play the rally live after the defensive contact.
5. Alternate the attacking team every three starts, then remove the designation and let either team decide.
Coach Dave’s cues
Attacker: stable base, compact swing, expect the counter. Defender: paddle in front, minimal backswing, use incoming pace, recover immediately. Partners protect the middle and move laterally together.
Watch for
Speeding up a low ball, swinging harder after a fast exchange begins, admiring the attack, countering while off balance, or directing uncontrolled pace at the face.