It’s Not The First- It’s The Second

July 3rd 2025 It’s not the first shot—it’s the second.

Always be ready for the next ball. Too often we admire our shot, assuming it’ll end the rally. But rallies end when they end—not always when we want them to. Stay mentally engaged until the point is completely over.

Start thinking of each shot as a setup for the next one. That mindset keeps you sharp from the first serve to the final point.

The goal is to think two or three shots ahead. Pickleball moves fast, and while it’s not always possible to plan that far, most players only think one step ahead. Thinking beyond that gives you the edge.

• Have a big serve? Use it to set up your third shot drive.

• Like to speed up off the bounce? Use it to create a better recounter opportunity.

• Love to lob? Use it to go from defense to offense. 

Stay locked in. Stay ready. Stay one step ahead.