Pickleball Strategy | Big Dad Energy | Finding Your Tribe

Hey there, and welcome to all our new subscribers! If you’re new here, thanks for jumping in—you’re part of the fam now. I’d love to hear from YOU! Hit reply and let me know what type of pickleball content would help you level up. Whether it’s strategy, mindset, or something totally random, I’m all ears.

Pickleball Tip of the Week: Who’s Got That Ball?

Ever been in this situation? You and your partner hit a great serve, the return sails back, and… you both freeze. No one knows who’s supposed to take the shot. It’s like an awkward pickleball staring contest. 😅

📝 Here’s how to avoid the confusion and elevate your doubles play:

• From the baseline: If the ball is coming diagonally, it’s your ball. Doesn’t matter if it’s forehand or backhand—if it's diagonal, take it.

• At the kitchen: Same deal—diagonal balls are yours to handle. Your partner should chill and let you take the shot.

• Want to get more advanced? Sure, at higher levels, players get super specific about court coverage. But if you’re playing at an amateur level, this simple rule will keep you out of awkward, ball-staring moments. 😆

Tweet of the Week: Why You Choke in Competition and How to Fix It

You crush it in practice, but choke when it counts? Been there. You’re not alone. This week I tweeted about it, and if you missed it, here’s the short version:

1️⃣ It’s all in your head: The issue isn’t your skills; it’s your mindset. You’re playing not to lose, and it’s costing you big time.
2️⃣ Pressure exposes what practice hides: Practice is easy—no pressure. But when the stakes are high, your brain goes into panic mode.
3️⃣ Train your mind, not just your body: You’ve drilled footwork and third-shot drops, but what about your mental game?
4️⃣ Practice under pressure: Create high-stakes situations in your training, or you’ll keep freezing up in real matches.
5️⃣ Let go of the fear of failure: Top players don’t obsess over the score—they focus on playing loose and aggressive. You should too.

🔥 Challenge for this week: Practice like it’s a tournament. No more casual drills. Play points. Create stakes. Get uncomfortable and force your brain to adapt. You’ll thank yourself when match day rolls around.

Poll time! What’s your biggest pickleball challenge right now?

• Mental game

• Third-shot drops

• Communication with my partner

• Stamina

Fatherhood Corner: Big Dad Energy 💪

This week, I’ve been reflecting on something I picked up from a friend on X (formerly Twitter): Big Dad Energy. No matter how chaotic life gets or how tired I am, I know I need to bring the energy for my daughter. Being present is what counts—putting the stress aside, playing outside, and soaking up those little moments.

We had a soccer game earlier today (didn’t win, but had a blast), and afterward, we hit the pickleball courts. 🏓 Nothing beats that combo—well, maybe except for post-game ice cream, but you know how it goes! 🍦

Speaking of community, I caught up with a good friend who’s also a former D1 athlete. One thing we both agree on: finding a consistent small group for support and encouragement is key. We’re not meant to go through life solo—iron sharpens iron, as they say. So, here’s my encouragement to you: find a group, even if it’s just a few people. The impact on your life will be huge.

Wrap Up + Call to Action

Whether it's mastering the mental game of pickleball, bringing Big Dad Energy to your family, or finding that support system in your faith, I’m rooting for you. Take what we talked about today and apply it this week—on the court, at home, or in your faith journey.

So, what’s one thing you’re going to do this week to level up? Reply and let me know! And if you’re feeling up for it, share this newsletter with a friend who could use some encouragement (or better pickleball tips). 😉

Until next time—keep smashing it on and off the court!
Bryant