he third shot drop
in pickleball is one
of the most difficult
shots for any level of
player. It’s the putt in
golf or the serve in
tennis. And it’s not
only your shot mechanics that go into a
ball; it’s also the mental preparation for
the shot that makes it successful.
When making the choice to hit a third shot drop
versus a drive, there a few variables to consider.
When the return of serve is short, this means the
contact point on the court is much closer to the non-
volley line for the player executing the shot. This allows
you the opportunity to attack the ball in an offensive
way rather than creating a drop shot from midcourt.
When the return of serve lands deeper on the court,
this often means you’re going to need to hit a third shot
drop so you can come forward with enough time to get
to the non-volley line. What’s important is to get your
weight transfer from your lower body under the ball,
which will not only lift the ball over the net and keep it
low but gets you forward behind the shot. Having more
of a dynamic stability behind the ball allows for a better
shot and preparation for the next shot.
However, if a player hits such a return that you’ll
have trouble getting your weight from back foot to
front foot, this will often make the third shot drop
unsuccessful because you’re hitting off of your back
foot, falling backward into the court, and will most
likely hit a high ball instead of a low third shot over the
net. This is an instance where a player could drive the
ball, allowing him or her to stabilize in order to hit a
fifth shot drop.
Another option is a lob shot, allowing a bit more time
to hit the fifth shot drop over the third shot. This is also
easier to execute indoors with the slower ball.
Preparation is key for a quality third shot. If you force
the shot or rush through, it can create issues coming
forward. Getting your weight behind the ball and your
paddle in front of you allows for better opportunities
to execute the shot. Taking the time to hit the ball and
follow it forward will be worth it.
If you’re looking for a shorter return to allow a more
offensive third shot drive, take the time to practice
deep serves to set yourself up for the opportunity. •
Five-time National Pickleball
Champion Sarah Ansboury
is Education Consultant and
Lead Clinician for Professional
Pickleball Registry (PPR) as
well as a 5.5 tennis player and
former NCAA women’s tennis
coach. She is a two-time US
Open Pickleball Champion and
a sponsored HEAD Pro Player.
Sarah is currently the Touring
Professional and Director
of Pickleball Instruction at
Palmetto Dunes Resort on
Hilton Head Island, SC.
NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018 |
MAGAZINE
59