4 Tips for Blocking Fast Drives!

Blocking well-hit drives can be a difficult task for ANY player, but these 4 tips will set you up with a solid foundation for mastering the Block.

1. Positioning is Key: Before attempting a block, ensure you are in the proper position on the court. For drives hit from midcourt to the baseline, you can position yourself closer to the kitchen line since you’ll have enough time to react. When facing drives from near the kitchen, experiment with taking a step back while staying within approximately 18 inches of the kitchen. Taking a step back gives you additional reaction time, and gives you a better view to determine if the shot is in or out. How close you want to be to the kitchen line is totally up to you, but it’s absolutely crucial that you get there!
2. The Athletic Crouch: Once you’re at the kitchen, it’s essential to set your feet and assume an athletic crouch. This posture is particularly important when dealing with high-quality sinking drives. Hold your paddle out in front of you, with the head pointed at the 11 o’clock position (1 o’clock for left-handed players). This paddle position is optimal because it favors your backhand, which is most commonly used for blocks, while still allowing you to cover your forehand. By “loading up on your backhand”, you can prepare yourself in advance and even move your body to cover more forehand-leaning shots with your backhand.
3. See the Ball into Your Paddle: To improve the quality of your blocks, make a conscious effort to truly see the ball into your paddle. Instead of relying solely on reflexes, commit to tracking the ball’s movement and timing your block accordingly. By developing this visual focus, you’ll enhance your ability to anticipate the shot and execute a proper block.
4. Do Not Fear!: Blocking fast drives can be intimidating, especially for beginners. However, it’s essential not to let fear hinder your progress. Realistically, there’s very little risk of getting injured by a pickleball, except for shots to the eye. If a drive is coming fast and directly towards your face, it’s best to dodge it anyway because that ball is probably going out. Remember… Shoulder High = Let it Fly!