Capital Area Pickleball Association
Serving Dane County Wisconsin

Lobbing in pickleball is a strategic move that can turn the tide of a rally, a point, and even a game when executed correctly. It involves hitting the ball high and deep into your opponents’ court, forcing them to retreat and giving you time to reposition. Here's how to master the lob, including the mechanics, target areas, and strategy.

Mechanics of a Successful Lob

1. Grip and Stance: Start with a continental grip, or “hammer grip,” which allows for better control and versatility. Stand facing forward, with your feet shoulder-width apart, knees slightly bent, and weight balanced on the balls of your feet.
2. Swing Path: The key to a good lob is a smooth, upward swing. Begin your swing low and follow through high, aiming to lift the ball over your opponents’ reach. Use your legs to generate power, pushing off the ground as you swing.
3. Contact Point: Hit the ball out in front of your body, ensuring your paddle face is open to create the necessary lift. The contact should be gentle yet firm, focusing on control rather than power.
4. Follow Through: Your follow-through should be high and extended, guiding the ball's trajectory.

Click here and here for helpful instructional videos on how to hit successful lobs.

Target Areas

Successful lobbing forces your opponents to move back to the baseline, disrupting their positioning at the non-volley zone (NVZ) and opening up the court for your next shot. Avoid lobbing too short, as this can set up an easy overhead smash for your opponents. When sending up a lob, aim for the back third of your opponents’ court, ideally near the baseline. Aiming your lobs cross-court or toward your opponent’s backhand can also be great ideas, as doing so will give you more distance to work with and will make it easier to avoid a smash return, respectively.

When and When Not to Lob

While lobbing can be an effective strategy, it is important to use it appropriately and judiciously:

1. When to Lob:

1. When Not to Lob:

Conclusion

Lobbing in pickleball is a skill that requires practice, precision, and strategic thinking. By mastering the mechanics, targeting the right areas, and understanding its purpose, you can add a valuable tool to your pickleball arsenal. Remember, the key to a successful lob is not just in the execution but also in knowing when to use it. Happy pickling!

The Capital Area Pickleball Association (CAPA) was founded in 2016 as a non-profit membership association offering pickleball enthusiasts of all backgrounds and abilities the opportunity to improve their skills, compete, socialize, and have fun. CAPA is entirely run by many willing volunteers who guide activities that help its membership enjoy this great sport. CAPA supports pickleball communities within Dane County. Membership in the organization costs only $15 for a calendar year, and it comes with many benefits, including:

•          Year-round league play for levels 2.0+
•          Free and discounted Skills & Drills classes and pickleball clinics for all levels
•          Member-only tournaments
•          Discounted Franklin X40 pickleballs, through the CAPA Pickleball Purchase          Program
•          Organized social events
•          5% discount at PickleballCentral.com
•          Member-only open plays at indoor facilities during the cold-weather months
•          The ability to meet and play with new people
•          CAPA grants for capital improvement or court enhancements that you can apply for to benefit your community
•          The opportunity to rent a CAPA-owned Lobster ball machine for $25 for up to 3 days

For more information on these member benefits, to learn more about CAPA, or to access a wealth of resources about pickleball in Dane County, please visit the CAPA website. To join CAPA, to renew your membership, or to edit your member profile, click here. Keep pickling!

Are you a pickleball enthusiast struggling to choose between a light or heavy paddle? You're not alone! The weight of your paddle significantly impacts your game, affecting power, control, and maneuverability. This blog post will explore the pros and cons of light and heavy paddles, helping you find the perfect paddle weight for your playstyle.

Light paddles generally weigh about 7.2 ounces or less. Heavy paddles are those that weigh about 8.3 ounces or more. In case you are wondering, yes, there is such a thing as midweight paddles, and they generally weigh between 7.3 – 8.2 ounces. They combine the features of light and heavy paddles discussed below.

Light Paddles

Pros:

1) Quicker maneuverability for faster reactions at the net.

2) Less strain on joints, reducing the risk of injuries like tennis elbow.

3) Suitable for players prioritizing control and finesse shots.

Cons:

1) Require more power from the player for deep shots.

2) Can feel less stable during powerful exchanges or in very windy conditions.

Heavy Paddles

Pros:

1) Increased power for drives and smashes.

2) More stability during powerful shots and rallies and in windy conditions.

3) Ideal for aggressive players seeking to overpower opponents.

Cons:

1) Slower paddle movement, potentially reducing reaction time.

2) Increased strain on joints like the elbow, potentially leading to injuries.

3) Less control for precise shots and finesse play.

Which Paddle Weight Should You Choose?

Here are some factors to consider when deciding between a light and heavy pickleball paddle:

1) Playstyle: Aggressive players might prefer heavy paddles for power, while strategic players might opt for light paddles for finesse, agility, and control.

2) Physical Health: Players with pre-existing joint issues or concerns about injury may benefit from lighter paddles.

3) Experience Level: Beginners might prefer lighter paddles for easier maneuverability and control, while experienced players can choose based on their developed preferences and playstyle.

Remember, however, that it is always a good idea to demo different paddles with different weights whenever possible before committing to a purchase.

Happy pickling!

Topspin is a valuable skill in pickleball that can greatly improve your game. Whether you’re playing singles or doubles, mastering topspin allows you to hit the ball harder, while still keeping it within the bounds of the court. But how exactly do you generate topspin in pickleball? Here’s a guide to help you get started.

1. Understanding the Basics of Topspin

Topspin occurs when the ball rotates forward in the direction of its flight. The primary advantage of topspin is that it causes the ball to dip quickly, allowing you to hit the ball with more height over the net without worrying about it going long and out-of-bounds. Topspin also allows you to hit the ball with more control, consistency, and precision. As the ball rotates forward, it creates downward pressure, making it bounce higher and forward after hitting the ground, making timing the ball harder for your opponents.

To create topspin, you need to brush up on the back of the ball with an upward motion, while also generating forward momentum. This creates the forward spin on the ball as it travels through the air.

2. Grip: Finding the Right Hold

Your grip plays a key role in generating topspin. While the traditional continental grip can be used in pickleball, many players opt for a semi-western or western grip for topspin shots. The semi-western grip is popular because it allows you to easily brush up on the back of the ball while still maintaining a solid grip for stability and control.

To use the semi-western grip, place the base knuckle of your index finger against the third bevel of the paddle handle. This position will allow you to hit with the required angle for topspin. A more extreme western grip can also be used, but it is generally less common in pickleball due to its more extreme angle and less versatility. This website does a good job of illustrating how to hold a paddle with these different grips.

3. Stroke Mechanics: Generating the Right Swing Path

Generating topspin requires a specific swing path. Start by preparing your paddle behind your body, holding it low and close to the ground. As you begin your swing, focus on brushing up on the back of the ball, moving your paddle from low to high. The key is to make contact with the lower half of the ball while keeping the face of your paddle slightly closed.

Your follow-through is just as important as the initial swing. After making contact with the ball, your paddle should continue its upward motion, finishing high above your shoulder. This follow-through ensures that you’ve imparted enough spin on the ball and helps to maintain balance and control.

4. Footwork: Staying Balanced and Low

Footwork is critical when generating topspin, as it helps you position yourself correctly and maintain control. When preparing to hit a topspin shot, it’s essential to stay balanced by bending your knees and staying low to the ground. A low center of gravity allows you to generate more upward momentum with your swing.

Make sure your weight is on your back foot as you begin the swing, and transfer your weight to your front foot as you make contact with the ball. This weight shift helps add power to your shot while keeping the ball under control.

5. Practicing with Purpose

Like any skill in pickleball, hitting topspin takes practice. Start by focusing on your swing mechanics, ensuring that you are brushing up on the ball and following through properly. Practice with slower shots to refine your technique before moving on to faster balls or more intense game situations.

To help reinforce topspin, you can also practice with a wall or a partner, focusing on hitting the ball consistently with the correct spin. Over time, you will notice that your shots become more controlled, and you will be able to hit deeper, more aggressive shots that are harder for your opponent to return.

6. Using Topspin for Control and Variety

Topspin isn’t just about hitting hard; it’s about control. With topspin, you can confidently clear the net even when you are under pressure, and you can hit a variety of shots—whether it’s a deep groundstroke, an accelerated dink, or a sharp cross-court angled volley—while keeping the ball in play. The spin also makes your shots bounce higher, which can throw off opponents who are less comfortable with high bounces.

In doubles play, topspin can help you control the pace and placement of the ball, allowing your partner to be in a better position to attack or defend.

Conclusion

Hitting topspin in pickleball is a skill that, when properly executed, adds consistency and control to your game. By understanding the mechanics of the shot, adjusting your grip, and refining your footwork and swing, you can start to hit topspin with confidence. With enough practice, you will be able to use this powerful technique to make your shots more aggressive while keeping them safely in-bounds, giving you a major advantage over your opponents who may not know how to use topspin.

Here is a good video on YouTube for those who want to learn how to hit topspin.

McGaw Park’s existing pickleball courts will be expanded this year to include 4 additional pickleball courts to the east of the existing courts, and LED lighting will be installed for all 12 courts. New shade structures will also be added. Fencing will be installed around and in between the new courts, and the same plastic slats used on the existing courts will be utilized for the new courts to provide a wind barrier. According to the Fitchburg Park Commission, the project is expected to be completed October 1, 2025. McGaw Park is located at 5236 Lacy Road in Fitchburg, Wisconsin, 53711.

USA Pickleball has published its rulebook and rule changes for 2025, and below is a brief summary of the new rules you are most likely to notice.

Rules 4.B.3., 4.B.6., 4.F.1., 4.G.1., 4.J.1, and 12.B.1. (Rally Scoring)

Although USA Pickleball still retains traditional side-out scoring as the official method of scoring, it introduced rally scoring as an option for doubles. If rally scoring is used, only one player on a team (the player on the right side) can serve before a side out is declared. In addition, the game-winning point can only be scored by the serving player or team. USA Pickleball prohibits double-elimination doubles tournaments from using rally scoring.

The rally scoring option is only a provisional rule for 2025. After one year, the rule will be evaluated to determine whether it should be continued as provisional, changed, formally adopted, or removed.

Rules 9.B.1. and 9.H. (Volleying & Momentum)

The definition of volleying was modified such that a volley no longer begins with the swing of the paddle. It now starts when the player makes contact with the ball. Rule 9.H. further clarifies that although it is still acceptable for a player to volley a ball while their partner is standing in the kitchen, it would be a violation for the player volleying the ball (or anything they are wearing or carrying) to make contact with the partner who is standing in the kitchen during the act of volleying.

Rule 4.C.2. (Not Ready Signals)

Players on the receiving team can now use “verbal indicators” (like “wait” or “stop”) to notify the server that they are not ready after the server starts calling the score and before the ball is served. Previously, verbal (and non-verbal) signals were supposed to be ignored and the serve was to continue. “Not ready” non-verbal/visual signals (e.g., hand motions) will still be ignored by the server once the score begins being called, unless there is a hinder.

Rule 6.C.4. (Spectator Line Calls)

The language of the rule is changing from: “Spectators should not be consulted on any line call” to “Spectators shall not be consulted on any line call.” The goal behind the rule change is to let players know that not only should they not ask spectators for input on line calls, but they should also not accept any spectator input either!

Rules 13.D.1.a., 13.D.1.c., and 7.0. (Calling Faults)

Players are expected to now call a fault on their partner (not just themselves).

Players can still call service foot faults and non-volley zone faults on their opponents’ end of the court. However, the language of Rule 13.D.1.c. is changing from: “If there is any disagreement among players [about a called fault, a replay shall occur],” to “If there is any disagreement between teams [about a called fault, a replay shall occur].” This change in language clarifies that disagreement between partners is not grounds for a replay.

This ties in to new Rule 7.0 which provides that any disagreement between partners on a fault call will be decided to the benefit of their opponents. The general principle embodied in the new rule is that when partners disagree, they express doubt, and the benefit of that doubt should go to their opponents.

Rule 2.E.5.c. (Pickleball Paddle Autographs)

Players can now have autographs on their paddles, as long as it does not alter the feel of the paddle face. Previously, the rule only allowed Sharpie pen markings for identification purposes (e.g., name, signature, phone, email address). USA Pickleball made the rule change, because it recognized that there was no rational basis to allow the paddle owner’s signature but not the autograph of another person.

Rule 4.A.5. (Serving)

Players can now release the ball with their paddle, not just their hand. They have to let the ball roll off the face of the paddle using gravity only. Players are still not allowed to impart any spin on the ball upon the release.

Rule 13.G.4. (Tournament Penalty)

If at a tournament a player does something after a match while the player is still on the court that constitutes a Verbal Warning, Technical Foul, or Technical Warning, the Tournament Director can apply that penalty to the player’s next match at the tournament.

Rule 12.C.4.a. (Round Robin Scoring)

If a player or team withdraws, retires, or is forfeited from a round-robin tournament without a playoff, then that player’s or team’s match results will not count toward the standings of that round robin. The match results will count towards a player’s or team’s rating, however.

If a player or team withdraws, retires, or is forfeited from a round-robin tournament with a playoff, then that player’s or team’s match results will not count toward the standings of that round robin, and the player or team will not be eligible to move on to a playoff elimination draw. The match results will count towards a player’s or team’s rating, however.

With the new year has come some changes for Pickleblog. Pickleblog will still be available here on the CAPA website, but it is now also available on Substack. This means that you can subscribe for free and receive a weekly blog post about your favorite topic (pickleball!) sent directly to your inbox.

Subscribing is easy! Simply go to abigailpickleball.substack.com, click "Subscribe," and enter your email address.

Happy New Year and keep pickling!

When it comes to pickleball, safety should always be a top priority. Given the speed at which the ball can travel and the potential for shots to accidentally hit your eyes, investing in quality eye protection is a must, even for casual players. But with so many options available, how do you choose the right pair? Here are some key features to look for when purchasing pickleball safety glasses:

Impact Resistance

Look for eyewear made from durable materials like polycarbonate, which can withstand high-velocity impacts without shattering. This will help protect your eyes from potential injuries and abrasions if your glasses get hit hard with a ball.

Anti-Fog and Ventilation

Pickleball games can get intense, and the last thing you want is your eyewear fogging up mid-game! Look for glasses with anti-fog coatings and ventilation holes to ensure clear vision at all times.

Comfort and Fit

Comfort is key when it comes to pickleball eyewear. Lightweight frames, adjustable nose pads, and non-slip temple grips can help keep your glasses in place during play.

Lens Tint and Polarization

Depending on your playing environment, you may want to consider lens tints or polarization. For example, amber lenses can improve contrast in low light conditions, while polarized lenses reduce glare from the sun.

UV Protection

If you play outdoors, UV protection is essential. Opt for lenses that offer at least 99% UV protection to keep your eyes safe from harmful sun rays.

Conclusion

By keeping these features in mind, you can find the perfect pair of pickleball safety glasses that not only protect your eyes but also enhance your performance on the court. Remember, your health and safety are worth the investment!

One question that sometimes arises among players is whether or not to wear a specialty pickleball glove. Let's delve into the pros and cons of utilizing this accessory.

Pros of Wearing a Glove:

• Enhanced Grip: A well-fitted glove can provide a better grip on the paddle, especially in hot and humid conditions where hands may become sweaty. This can lead to better control and accuracy.
• Protection: Gloves can offer some protection against blisters and calluses, especially for new players, those who don’t play often, or those with sensitive skin. They can also offer protection against the sun’s harmful UV rays.
• Warmth: In colder weather, a glove can help keep your hands warm, allowing you to play comfortably even when temperatures drop.

Cons of Wearing a Glove:

• Reduced Feel: While gloves can enhance grip, they can also reduce your feel of the paddle, making you hold on to it too tightly and thereby potentially affecting your ability to hit softer, more delicate shots. It is important to note, however, that you can buy open-fingered gloves which some players claim provides better control.
• Increased Sweat: Some players find that wearing a glove traps sweat on their hands, leading to discomfort and potential skin irritation.
• Added Cost and Maintenance: Gloves are an additional expense, and you'll need to replace and clean them periodically, especially when they get dirty and worn out.

Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to wear a glove is a personal one. Consider your individual needs and preferences. If your primary reason for wanting to wear a glove is because of sweaty hands, consider alternatives like tacky overgrips, powder, and hand towels, since these items won’t reduce your feel of the paddle, potentially allowing you to hit shots with greater finesse. Above all, though, remember that in pickleball, the most important thing is to have fun and enjoy the game! Keep pickling!

As any player will tell you, a paddle is one of the most essential tools in pickleball. Under typical conditions, an average pickleball paddle will last anywhere from 1-3 years, depending how often you play and how well you care for your paddle. Taking good care of your pickleball paddle not only ensures optimal performance but will save you from spending money on more frequent and unnecessary replacements.

Here are some tips to help you keep your paddle in pristine playing condition for as long as possible:

•          Keep Your Paddle Clean: Regularly cleaning your paddle is important. Over time, the surface of your paddle, which is key for enabling you to put spin on the ball, can capture dirt, which will make the paddle smooth and less effective at spinning the pickleball. To clean your paddle, you can use a damp cloth, containing a mild soap and water solution, to wipe down the paddle surface. Avoid harsh chemicals that can damage the surface material. Be sure to wipe away any water residue and allow the paddle to fully air-dry.
•          Be Gentle with Your Paddle: Avoid hitting the paddle against hard surfaces like fences, the ground, or your partner’s paddle in a volley battle. The latter can be avoided by calling shots. In addition, avoid ever using your paddle as a crutch when bending down to pick up a ball. And, of course, never abuse your paddle if you are upset over a mistake.

•          Store Your Paddle Properly: Keep your paddle in a designated pickleball bag or case to protect it from scratches, dings, and impacts when not in use. You should also be sure to keep your paddle in a cool, dry place, and out of direct sunlight. An ideal storage location is the inside of your home. Be wary of leaving your paddle outside or in your car where it can be subject to extreme temperature fluctuations. Finally, be sure to always keep your paddle dry to prevent warping and other damage.

•          Inspect Your Paddle Regularly: Before and after each game, inspect your paddle for any signs of wear and tear, including cracks and delamination. Also check for loose edge guards or torn grips. If you notice any defects, address them right away to prevent further damage.

•          Use Protective Gear: Investing in a paddle guard or edge tape is a smart move. These protective accessories function as a barrier between your paddle and the court, reducing the likelihood of scratches and dents. They provide an affordable way to extend the life of your paddle and can even add a touch of personal style.

•          Replace Your Pickleball Grip: Pickleball grips lose tackiness, get holes, and otherwise wear down, which can make it more likely that the paddle will slip out of your hand during play and get damaged. Replacement grips are inexpensive, easy to put on, and come in a wide array of colors, providing another easy way to extend the life of your paddle, while customizing its appearance.

Long live your paddle!

Keep pickling!