COACH MARY’S TIP FOR THE WEEK

by Mary Barseleau [email protected]

June 21st, 2026 Two different ways to attack overheads If you have not seen the already covered overhead techniques demonstrated by Callie Smith, Tanner Tomasi, Jordan Briones and others, be sure to check out their YouTube feeds on this topic.

This week, let’s look at two shots I have not yet covered in Pickleball Points: The Topspin Roundhouse and Overhead Backhand Smash (NOTE: This week it will be helpful for you to watch the attached videos. If you cannot access them on the Desert Sun website, then go directly to YouTube, go to Tanner Tomasi or Hannah Blatt, and search for backhand smash.

For the bangitpickleball video, go to Instagram and search for Topspin Roundhouse.) From bangitpickleball on Instagram, check out this rally that ends with the topspin forehand roundhouse. The player in the forecourt in the black shirt finishes the point after a lengthy dinking rally when the other side tries to lob. Awesome shot.

https://www.instagram.com/reel/DT3MFjXEglm/ · This shot comes into play when you first try to shuffle slide back to attack a lob with an overhead on the forehand side, but you find that it is already past you. · You do not have time to turn and run past it to lob, since you started too late. · Keep your paddle are extended behind you, rather “than scratching your back.” · Reach back, and try to get on top of the ball, creating topspin and following through towards the net and across your body. · We worked on this in my advanced class today, and some players said they already find themselves doing this in games.

Overhead Backhand Smash From Tanner Tomasi and Hannah Blatt, check out the attached video. https://youtube.com/shorts/lrE8EteDZug?is=Plxz6ncy9-Ql4ogd · Step one: if your partner is not about to hit the overhead smash, this is your chance to help them on the backhand side. · Step two: take a step backwards, coil your shoulder, the use your wrist to snap it down. · Step three: know that this is not an outright winner. You are aiming at your opponent’s feet, so when you snap it down, you are ready for the next shot. Both players emphasize that this shot will help avoid having to retreat and run down your opponent’s lob. You will keep your position of power at the NVZ. Upcoming Indoor Round Robin: June 28th at the Desert Recreation District gym at Civic Center Park. Email me: [email protected] for more information All skill levels welcome!