Pickleball Pro Explains the #1 Forehand Counter Mistake

James Ignatowich

Hey guys, this is James Ignatowich. One of the most common mistakes I see players make on their forehand volley or forehand counter is taking too big of a swing. On the forehand side, you already have plenty of built-in power. The real goal with a counter or volley is to control the ball and keep it down, power isn’t the priority here.

Why a Big Swing Leads to Errors

When your elbow drifts back and you take a big swing on the forehand counter, you increase the chances of missing long. This usually leads to late contact and an unintended slice on the ball. You don’t want to be slicing your counter, control is everything.

Prioritize Contact in Front

The key adjustment is simple: meet the ball out in front. The earlier you make contact on the forehand counter, the more likely the ball is to stay down and in play (figure 1). If you wait too long and strike it beside or behind you, that extra swing doesn’t actually help, the ball is moving faster than your hand can.

(figure 1), Illustration created with AI

Simple Key to Success

Keep it simple: step in, make contact in front, and direct the ball down. That small adjustment will keep your forehand counter consistent and give you another chance to win the rally.

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Editor’s Note: This article is based on a video by James Ignatowich. We partnered with him to highlight key concepts in a written format for players who prefer to read or reference drills on the court.

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James Ignatowich is a top 10 professional pickleball player originally from Connecticut, now residing in Delray Beach, Florida. A former Division 1 tennis player at Vanderbilt University, James made a transition to pickleball, quickly rising to prominence in the sport and often playing doubles with Tyson McGuffin and Anna Bright. In addition to his athletic achievements, he runs his own podcast, where he shares insights into the game and interviews other professionals. jamesignatowichnewsletter | PPA | MLP | My paddle