Pickleball Tournaments, Plan for Success

I realize for many players, age and skill divisions mean two very different things.  Many advanced players look at age as a warm up for the Open event.  Intermediate players may look at this as an opportunity to play with higher skill level players, who perhaps they don’t get a chance to play against during normal recreational play.  But this can be a daunting task!  I have played some teams who are so nervous that they are unable to play to their skill level.  On the other hand, some teams enter the event feeling they have nothing to lose and may actually play out of their minds!  If you want to make the most of every tournament experience, permit me to suggest a few things.

Pickleball Tournament Tip #1:  Set Goals

Some people believe you can only set quantitative goals: score 4 points in the first game. Having achieved that, they may raise the bar to 7 points in the second game.   If this works for you, fine.  But you can also set other, more qualitative goals.  This sort of goal might be:

• I want to stay in the point longer, or
• I want to attempt this strategy, or
• I want to maintain my composure and remain positive, no matter what.

By setting  goals you are giving yourself something to work on and something you can focus on besides the overall match.

Pickleball Tournament Tip #2:  Make a Plan

 
Whether it be your attitude on the court, your commitment to have fun or a specific strategy you wish to employ; be aware of what you want to accomplish in each and every match.   If you loose sight of the purpose of being there,  you won’t benefit from the experience.  I have witnessed teams without a plan, simply going through the motions and, as a result, the only thing they get out of the event is a crushing loss.  Give yourself a chance to have a positive learning experience by creating a plan with your partner before every match.

Pickleball Tournament Tip #3:  Enjoy Yourself!

If you are the lower rated player, you have absolutely nothing to lose so you might as well have fun.   Frankly, you never know what could happen.  If you are out there having fun you most likely will play very well. You will be loose and relaxed and may even surprise yourself at times.  I absolutely believe anyone can win a match on any given day.