Mastering the Art of Being the Perfect Pickleball Partner

Pickleball is more commonly played as a doubles game rather than a singles game. As a result, mastering the art of being the perfect pickleball partner is important. Whether you are playing with a long-time pickleball partner or you find yourself on the same side of the net with someone new when hitting the courts for recreational open play, being in-sync on the pickleball court can be challenging, and sometimes even intimidating. To help us all have more fun, win more games, and become better doubles partners, we have come up with some tips to become the perfect pickleball partner.

Finding power in positivity is essential. Not only do you need to play confidently and play your best pickleball, but your partner does too—at least if you want to be successful. A good partner is one that helps you, motivates you, and remains positive. Positivity breeds positivity… and usually better play. Positivity is essential if you want your partner to have fun, play confidently, and play their best pickleball. Your pickleball partner can feel when you are relaxed and confident. Exuding positivity helps to keep you and your partner cool, calm, and collected on the pickleball court. If you or your partner make a bad shot, build yourself and your partner up so you are mentally ready to win the next shot.

Communication on the court is crucial for building trust and confidence between pickleball partners. You and your partner should communicate any strategy for the game, particularly in a competitive play environment. What is the strategy against your opponents? What are your opponent’s strengths and weaknesses? When you and your partner are working together and on the same page for strategy, rather than fighting each other on strategy, you will certainly be prone to more success on the court. Things happen quickly on the pickleball court, so it is important to vocalize what you see in order to act fast and act together. Call the shots and communicate as a team who has the shot or when to let shots go. By communicating during a rally, you and your partner will be better able to work as a team and work as one.