Analyzing Selkirk's Letter to UPA, Experiences Attending PPA SLC

 

00:00 Intro 03:28 Our favorite dad jokes from the contest 07:03 Weekly update: Problems with PPA SLC courts 12:51 Personal game improvement takeaways for Braydon 15:07 Kyle is going to Japan 16:51 Pickleball Effect Shop is coming - become an ambassador 21:18 Real life experience ad for Stack 23:00 Boise’s Marianna makes big run in pro singles 31:12 Kyle’s Corner - Selkirk’s letter to UPA-A 55:33 Paddle Babble - Neonic Flare 16mm 1:01:28 Versix Vector XL 1:04:48 Braydon might get his tungsten in Pickleball Central

Starting A Pickleball Paddle Brand: SURPRISING Fact About China

 

1. 05:47 beginning of matt's story
2. 08:42 branding
3. 09:45 origins of maverix
4. 15:05 shoe dog, the story of nike
5. 17:34 where maverix is now
6. 19:37 maverix paddles in depth, shape
7. 26:13 visiting china
8. 28:43 R&D process
9. 30:21 how do diff materials get introduced
10. 34:13 what's next for maverix
11. 36:03 paddle testing
12. 42:23 experimenting with diff materials, cores
13. 43:33 how he got started
14. 48:23 personal
15. 56:58 most significant accomplishment of the company
16. 58:08 maverix patents
17. 1:00:17 most significant personal accomplishment
18. 01:04:03 sending paddles to rob lowe
19. 01:06:03 best advice he's received, books
20. 01:09:03 closing

2024 PPA Utah Open

 

 




Gold Medal Matches

Bright/Ignatowich vs Irvine/Tardio 
Bright/Rohrabacher v Johnson/Humberg 
Federico Staksrud v Connor Garnett
Ignatowich/Wright v Daescu/Tardio 
Kaitlyn Christian v Kate Fahey

Bronze Medal Matches
Dizon/Wright v Kovalova/Kawamoto 
Patriquin/Tellez v Staksrud/Ge 
Rafa Hewett v Hunter Johnson 
Humberg/Tellez v Brascia/Martinez Vich 
Judit Castillo v Chao Yi Wang 


Doubles
Dizon/Wright v Johnson/Humberg 
Bright/Rohrabacher v Kovalova/Kawamoto 
Patriqiun/Tellez v Daescu/Tardioat 
Staksrud/Ge v Ignatowich/Wright 
Kovalova/Kawamoto v Brascia/Brascia a
Bright/Rohrabacher v Irvine/Black 
Dizon/Wright v Koop/Kawamotat 
Jones/Smith v Johnson/Humberg
Johns/Bar v Staksrud/Ge 
McGuffin/Martinez Vich v Daescu/Tardio 
Ignatowich/Wright v Garnett/Loong
Johnson/Frazier v Patriquin/Tellez
Jones/Smith v Ignatowich/Phillips 
David/Todd v Brascia/Brascia
Jansen/Pisnik v Johnson/Humberg 
McGuffin/Martinez Vich v Fought/Loyd
Daescu/Tardio v Hewett/Johnson 
Ignatowich/Wright v Sock/Shick 
Wang/Castillo v Truong/Fahey

Mixed Doubles
Brascia/Martinez Vich v Dizon/Daescu
Irvine/Tardio v Humberg/Tellez 
Bright/Ignatowich v Brascia/Martinez Vich 
Humberg/Tellez v Black/Frazier 
Johnson/Johnson v Irvine/Tardio
Bright/Ignatowich v Jansen/Patriquin
Newman/Smith v Frazier/Black 
Rohrabacher/Staksrud v Dizon/Daescu 
Bright/Ignatowich v Truong/Garnett 
Wright/Ge v Todd/Johnson 
Kawamoto/Sock v Humberg/Tellez
Truong/Garnett v Padegimaite/Hewett

Singles
Chao Yi Wang v Mary Brascia
Judit Castillo v Kate Fahey 
Chao Yi Wang v Kaitlyn Christian 
Connor Garnett v Rafa Hewett 
Federico Staksrud v Hunter Johnson 
Marianna Petrei v Judit Castillo 
Kate Fahey v Cade Pierson 
Mary Brascia v Chao Yi Wang
Kaitlyn Christian v Lina Padegimaite
Hunter Johnson v Chris Haworth 
Rafa Hewett v Grayson Goldin 
Connor Garnett v Jaume Martinez Vich 
Federico Staksrud v Yates Johnson 
Cass Hoag v Chao Yi Wang 
Kaitlyn Christian v Christine Maddox 
Mary Brascia v Angie Walker 
Jaume Martinez Vich v Augustus Ge 
Federico Staksrud v Marshall Brown 
Tyson McGuffin v Rafa Hewett 
Kate Fahey v Jessie Irvine 
Tyson McGuffin v Kyle Lewis 
Connor Garnett v Mohaned Alhouni

Selkirk SLAMS the UPA in recent letter...

 

Pickleball's Power Play: Selkirk's Bold Move Shakes the Sport's Foundations

A Deep Dive into the Drama Unfolding Between Selkirk and the UPA, As Rafael Trevino Unpacks Heated Accusations and Industry Impacts

Introduction:

In a sport where strategy and precision are paramount, the latest clash between major players Selkirk and the United Pickleball Association (UPA) has sent shockwaves through the pickleball community. Rafael Trevino, host of the popular "Pickleball Tech Dude" podcast, dissects the drama, providing listeners with an in-depth look at the heated accusations, broken trust, and the future of pickleball regulation. 

June 13, 2024: Equipment standards and the future success of pickleball

1. 00:37, Selkirk Aug 16 Blog

Selkirk’s August 16 blog post set the stage for what would become a major confrontation with the UPA. The post began by reaffirming the company’s commitment to supporting USA Pickleball’s testing procedures, emphasizing the stark differences between paddles sent for public use and those tested by the association. Selkirk highlighted the critical role of amateurs in the sport, portraying them as the heartbeat of pickleball. The blog underscored the responsibility of manufacturers and regulatory bodies to protect the sport’s integrity, a theme that would echo throughout their subsequent communications. (NOTE: This blog post has been deleted.)

2. 01:24, Heated Accusations

The blog post quickly transitioned into a series of scathing accusations against the UPA. Selkirk accused the UPA of colluding with Joola to ensure that their Gen 3s paddles were the only ones meeting interim certification standards. Selkirk criticized the UPA for poor communication, revealing that crucial testing standards were only shared with a select few companies just days before a major PPA event. The accusation pointed to a lack of transparency and fairness, with Selkirk questioning the legitimacy of the UPA’s actions.

3. 04:02, Timeline of Events

Rafael Trevino walked his listeners through a detailed timeline of events, highlighting the growing tensions between Selkirk and the UPA. The timeline began in March 2023, when Tom Barnes, a co-founder of Selkirk, observed UPA’s testing procedures at the MLP Daytona Beach event. Barnes’ observations raised red flags, particularly when he was confronted by Gary Brody, the CEO of Pickle Pro Labs (PPL), who made it clear that the testing process was not open to scrutiny. This timeline of escalating conflicts painted a picture of an industry in turmoil.

4. 07:58, Poor Communication from UPA

Selkirk’s frustrations with the UPA’s communication practices were further exacerbated by a message sent to organizations on August 15. The message outlined testing standards that Selkirk found absurd, particularly the 2200 RPM spin limit tested under unrealistic conditions. Selkirk accused the UPA of incompetence and a lack of transparency, claiming that their handling of testing protocols was eroding trust within the pickleball community. This section highlighted the growing disconnect between Selkirk and the UPA, with Selkirk questioning the very foundation of the UPA’s regulatory authority.

5. 09:04, Selkirk Calls to Action

In response to the UPA’s actions, Selkirk issued a call to action, demanding an independent audit of the testing protocols and offering their own services if an independent contractor was not hired. Selkirk also called for the revocation of the UPA’s interim certification system, arguing that it was implemented without proper communication or transparency. This bold move signaled Selkirk’s willingness to take drastic measures to protect the sport’s integrity, putting the UPA on notice.

6. 09:54, Selkirk’s Ultimatum

Selkirk didn’t stop at demands; they issued an ultimatum to the UPA. The company laid out two options: either the UPA makes significant changes, including registering as a nonprofit and removing certain individuals from their positions, or they return to USA Pickleball’s testing protocols. Selkirk’s ultimatum was a clear message that they would no longer tolerate the UPA’s current approach, and they were prepared to withdraw their support if their demands were not met.

7. 10:39, My Thoughts

Rafael Trevino shared his thoughts on the situation, acknowledging that Selkirk was voicing concerns that many in the community had been thinking but were hesitant to express. He emphasized the importance of maintaining high standards in the sport and the responsibility of regulatory bodies to uphold the integrity of pickleball. Trevino’s analysis provided a balanced perspective, recognizing the validity of Selkirk’s concerns while also questioning the feasibility of some of their demands.

8. 13:05, Outro

As the podcast episode drew to a close, Rafael Trevino reflected on the broader implications of this clash. He noted that the outcome of this dispute could have far-reaching consequences for the future of pickleball, particularly in terms of regulation and industry standards. Trevino urged listeners to stay informed and engaged, as the sport navigates these turbulent times. The episode ended on a note of anticipation, with Trevino promising to keep his audience updated on any new developments in this ongoing saga.

In this episode, Rafael Trevino brought clarity to a complex and rapidly evolving situation, providing pickleball enthusiasts with the insights they need to understand the stakes involved in this high-profile dispute. The sport may be facing its biggest challenge yet, but with voices like Trevino’s guiding the conversation, the community is better equipped to navigate whatever comes next.

Time Code List

00:00 INTRO 00:37 SELKIRK AUG 16 BLOG 01:24 HEATED ACCUSATIONS 04:02 TIMELINE OF EVENTS 07:58 POOR COMMUNICATION FROM UPA 09:04 SELKIRK CALLS TO ACTION 09:54 SELKIRK'S ULTIMATUM 10:39 MY THOUGHTS 13:05 OUTRO

Unpacking the Controversy: How Equipment Standards Could Shape Pickleball's Future

A Deep Dive into Selkirk’s Bold Stand Against the UPA and the Ripple Effects Across the Pickleball Community

Introduction:

The pickleball world is currently embroiled in a heated debate that could significantly influence the sport's trajectory. At the heart of this controversy is the issue of equipment standards, a seemingly technical matter that has sparked a broader conversation about fairness, transparency, and the future of pickleball. In August 2024, Selkirk, one of the leading manufacturers of pickleball paddles, released a blog post titled "Equipment standards and the future success of pickleball." This post, coupled with an in-depth discussion by Rafael Trevino on his popular podcast "Pickleball Tech Dude," has brought to light significant concerns about the role of the United Pickleball Association (UPA) in regulating the sport.

In this article, we’ll explore the key points from Selkirk’s blog post and Trevino’s podcast, examining the accusations leveled against the UPA and the potential implications for pickleball players, manufacturers, and the sport as a whole.

Selkirk’s Concerns: A Battle for Transparency and Fairness

On August 16, 2024, Selkirk published a blog post that highlighted their concerns regarding the UPA's approach to equipment testing and certification. Selkirk began by reaffirming its commitment to supporting USA Pickleball’s testing procedures, emphasizing that "our paddles sent to the public are the same paddles sent for testing." This assertion underscored their dedication to maintaining integrity and consistency in their products, a principle they believe should be upheld across the board.

However, the post quickly turned critical, accusing the UPA of poor communication and a lack of transparency in their testing protocols. Selkirk specifically called out the UPA for allegedly colluding with another manufacturer, Joola, to ensure that Joola’s Gen 3 paddles were the only ones meeting the interim certification standards. Selkirk argued that the UPA’s actions were not only unfair but also detrimental to the sport’s integrity. They expressed frustration with the timing and selective dissemination of testing standards, which they claimed were shared with only a few companies just days before a significant Professional Pickleball Association (PPA) event.

Heated Accusations and Timeline of Events

Rafael Trevino, in his "Pickleball Tech Dude" podcast, provided listeners with a detailed timeline of events leading up to the current dispute. He explained how tensions began to escalate in March 2023, when Tom Barnes, a co-founder of Selkirk, observed the UPA’s testing procedures at the Major League Pickleball (MLP) Daytona Beach event. Barnes’ observations raised concerns about the transparency and fairness of the testing process, especially after he was confronted by Gary Brody, CEO of the Pickle Pro Labs (PPL), who made it clear that the testing process was not open to scrutiny.

This incident marked the beginning of a series of confrontations between Selkirk and the UPA. As Trevino narrated, the situation worsened when, on August 15, 2024, the UPA sent out a message to organizations outlining new testing standards. These standards included a 2200 RPM spin limit, a criterion that Selkirk found particularly troubling. The company criticized the UPA for implementing what they deemed "absurd" standards under unrealistic conditions, further accusing the UPA of eroding trust within the pickleball community.

Selkirk’s Bold Call to Action

In response to what they perceived as the UPA’s mismanagement, Selkirk issued a strong call to action in their blog post. They demanded an independent audit of the UPA’s testing protocols, offering their own services if an independent contractor was not hired. Selkirk’s stance was clear: they would no longer tolerate what they viewed as the UPA’s arbitrary and non-transparent approach to equipment certification.

Moreover, Selkirk called for the immediate revocation of the UPA’s interim certification system, arguing that it had been implemented without proper communication or transparency. This demand was a direct challenge to the UPA’s authority, signaling Selkirk’s willingness to take drastic measures to protect what they believed to be the integrity of the sport.

An Ultimatum from Selkirk

Selkirk didn’t stop at just making demands. They issued an ultimatum to the UPA, laying out two possible paths forward. The first option was for the UPA to make significant changes, including registering as a nonprofit organization and removing certain individuals from their positions. The second option was for the UPA to revert to USA Pickleball’s testing protocols. Selkirk made it clear that if these changes were not implemented, they would consider withdrawing their support for the UPA altogether.

This ultimatum was a bold move, reflecting the seriousness with which Selkirk viewed the situation. It also underscored the broader stakes involved in this dispute, with Selkirk positioning themselves as defenders of fairness and transparency in pickleball.

Rafael Trevino’s Analysis

Throughout his podcast episode, Rafael Trevino provided a balanced perspective on the unfolding drama. He acknowledged that Selkirk was raising valid concerns that resonated with many in the pickleball community. "Selkirk is voicing what a lot of people have been thinking," Trevino noted, emphasizing the importance of maintaining high standards in the sport.

However, Trevino also questioned the feasibility of some of Selkirk’s demands, particularly the call for the UPA to register as a nonprofit. He pointed out that such a move would require significant structural changes and could lead to further complications within the organization. Despite these challenges, Trevino agreed with Selkirk’s overall message: that the UPA needed to improve its communication and transparency to restore trust within the community.

The Broader Implications for Pickleball

The controversy between Selkirk and the UPA has far-reaching implications for the future of pickleball. At its core, the dispute is about more than just equipment standards; it’s about the governance and regulation of the sport. As Trevino highlighted in his podcast, "The outcome of this dispute could have significant consequences for how the sport is regulated moving forward."

One potential outcome is a shift in how equipment testing and certification are conducted. If Selkirk’s demands are met, we could see the introduction of more rigorous and transparent testing protocols, possibly overseen by independent auditors. This could lead to greater consistency and fairness in the sport, ensuring that all manufacturers are held to the same standards.

On the other hand, if the UPA resists these changes, there could be a fracturing of the regulatory landscape in pickleball. This might result in different organizations adopting their own standards, leading to confusion and inconsistency in the sport. Such a scenario could also alienate players and manufacturers who feel that the current system is biased or unfair.

Conclusion: Navigating the Future

As the pickleball community watches this drama unfold, the stakes are undeniably high. The dispute between Selkirk and the UPA is not just a battle between two organizations; it’s a pivotal moment that could shape the future of the sport. As Rafael Trevino wisely concluded in his podcast, "This is a crucial time for pickleball. How we navigate these challenges will determine the direction of the sport for years to come."

For players, manufacturers, and fans alike, staying informed and engaged is essential. The decisions made in the coming months will have a lasting impact on the sport, influencing everything from equipment standards to the very principles of fairness and transparency that underpin pickleball. As the community continues to grapple with these issues, one thing is clear: the future of pickleball is being shaped right before our eyes.

UPDATE: IMPORTANT MESSAGE REGARDING THE FUTURE OF SORRY NOT SORRY

 

Chris Cali’s "Sorry Not Sorry" Podcast Resumes with UPA Support After Brief Hiatus

Introduction

After a tense period of legal disputes and uncertainty, Chris Cali’s “Sorry Not Sorry” podcast is back, this time with the official backing of the United Pickleball Association (UPA). The podcast, known for its insightful commentary and passionate advocacy for pickleball, had been on hiatus due to unresolved legal issues concerning the use of footage from major pickleball leagues. However, with renewed support from the UPA, Cali is ready to bring his show back to life, much to the delight of his dedicated fanbase.

The Turning Point: UPA’s Decision to Support "Sorry Not Sorry"
(Time code: 0:02 - 1:06)

The breakthrough came when the UPA reached out to Cali with a new six-month agreement, allowing him to continue using footage from the PPA and MLP without any editorial restrictions. This development was a direct result of the overwhelming support Cali received from his listeners, who rallied behind him by flooding the UPA with messages of support. Cali was quick to acknowledge the role his community played in securing this new deal, expressing his gratitude for their unwavering loyalty.

Clearing the Air: Addressing the Rumors
(Time code: 1:06 - 1:40)

In his first episode back, Cali took the opportunity to dispel several rumors that had circulated during the hiatus. He clarified that the legal issues were not the result of any personal conflicts or social media disputes, but rather a misunderstanding between him and the UPA. By setting the record straight, Cali aimed to refocus the conversation on the positive outcome and the future of the podcast.

A Call for Gratitude: Recognizing UPA’s Good Decision
(Time code: 1:40 - 2:21)

Cali urged his listeners to express their appreciation for the UPA’s decision to renew the agreement. He emphasized that while it’s important to hold organizations accountable when they make mistakes, it’s equally crucial to acknowledge and reward good decisions. Cali believed that showing gratitude for the UPA’s support would not only strengthen his relationship with the organization but also benefit the broader pickleball community.

Looking Ahead: Excitement for Upcoming PPA Events
(Time code: 2:21 - 3:00)

With the legal hurdles behind him, Cali expressed his excitement for the Picklr Utah Open, which he will cover in his podcast. He looked forward to returning to his regular programming and continuing to provide the content that his listeners love. The renewed agreement with the UPA has given Cali a fresh sense of purpose, and he is eager to dive back into the world of pickleball commentary.

Conclusion: A Victory for the Pickleball Community

The return of "Sorry Not Sorry" is a testament to the power of community support and the importance of maintaining open lines of communication between content creators and governing bodies like the UPA. Chris Cali’s journey from uncertainty to triumph highlights the challenges faced by independent creators in the sports industry, but it also underscores the potential for positive outcomes when all parties are willing to work together. As Cali prepares to resume his coverage of pickleball’s biggest events, his renewed partnership with the UPA promises to bring even more exciting content to his listeners, solidifying "Sorry Not Sorry" as a staple in the pickleball community. 

In-Depth Article Summary:

In a recent episode of the "Sorry Not Sorry" podcast, host Chris Cali shared the long-awaited news that his show is back on track after facing potential shutdown due to legal issues with the United Pickleball Association (UPA). The popular pickleball podcast, known for its candid discussions and in-depth coverage of the sport, had been on hiatus while Cali navigated a complex legal landscape concerning the use of footage from major pickleball leagues.

The trouble began when Cali received a cease-and-desist notice from the UPA, citing unauthorized use of footage from the Professional Pickleball Association (PPA) and Major League Pickleball (MLP). The legal warning came as a shock to Cali, who had been providing recaps and analysis of these events on his podcast, believing that his content was contributing positively to the sport's growing popularity. The notice left Cali uncertain about the future of his podcast, which had built a loyal following over the years.

However, it was the overwhelming support from Cali's audience that played a crucial role in turning the tide. Fans flooded the UPA with comments, emails, and social media posts, advocating for the continuation of "Sorry Not Sorry." Cali expressed his deep gratitude for this outpouring of support, noting that it likely influenced the UPA’s decision to reconsider their stance.

In a surprising turn of events, the UPA reached out to Cali and extended a new six-month agreement, allowing him to use their footage without any restrictions on his commentary. Cali emphasized that the UPA’s decision was not influenced by any personal disputes or social media drama, but rather was the result of a genuine misunderstanding that was ultimately resolved through open communication.

Cali used this opportunity to encourage his listeners to show their appreciation for the UPA’s decision by publicly thanking the organization. He underscored the importance of acknowledging and rewarding positive actions, especially when they contribute to the growth and integrity of pickleball as a sport.

Looking ahead, Cali expressed his excitement for the upcoming PPA events in Utah, which he will cover in future episodes. He thanked his fans once again for their unwavering support and promised to continue delivering the content they love. The episode ended on a hopeful note, with Cali eager to return to his regular programming and optimistic about the future of "Sorry Not Sorry."

In summary, the return of "Sorry Not Sorry" marks a significant victory not just for Chris Cali, but for the entire pickleball community. It serves as a reminder of the power of community support and the importance of maintaining open lines of communication between content creators and governing bodies like the UPA. As Cali prepares to resume his coverage of pickleball's biggest events, his renewed partnership with the UPA promises to bring even more exciting content to his listeners. 

Chris Cali's 'Sorry Not Sorry' Podcast Triumphantly Returns After Hiatus: A Victory for Pickleball Fans

The pickleball community breathed a collective sigh of relief as Chris Cali's beloved "Sorry Not Sorry" podcast made a triumphant return after a brief but tense hiatus. The show, known for its sharp commentary and engaging recaps of professional pickleball events, faced an uncertain future due to legal disputes surrounding the use of footage from major pickleball leagues. However, thanks to the overwhelming support from fans and the decisive action of the United Pickleball Association (UPA), the podcast is back, stronger than ever.

A Hiatus That Shook the Community

Chris Cali's podcast had become a staple for pickleball enthusiasts, offering a unique blend of humor, insight, and passion for the sport. When the podcast went on hiatus, fans were left in the dark, speculating about the reasons behind the sudden pause. Rumors swirled, with some attributing the hiatus to personal conflicts or social media disputes. However, in his first episode back, Cali clarified that the legal issues stemmed from a misunderstanding with the UPA regarding the use of game footage from the Professional Pickleball Association (PPA) and Major League Pickleball (MLP).

A Groundswell of Support

During the hiatus, fans of the podcast rallied behind Cali, flooding the UPA with messages of support and urging the association to resolve the issues and allow the podcast to continue. The outpouring of support was a testament to the show's impact on the pickleball community. Fans expressed their gratitude not only for Cali's work but also for the UPA's decision to step in and broker a new six-month agreement that would allow "Sorry Not Sorry" to resume its coverage without any editorial restrictions.

The UPA's Pivotal Role

The UPA's decision to support Cali and his podcast has been widely praised by fans, many of whom took to social media to express their thanks. Comments from fans like @joem6010, who said, "Excellent!!! Thanks UPA/PPA/MLP for keeping SNS alive," and @linsu2854, who credited the podcast with making them a regular viewer of PPA/MLP events, highlight the deep connection Cali has fostered with his audience. The UPA's intervention is seen as not only a win for Cali but also a victory for the entire pickleball community.

Fan Reactions: A Testament to Cali's Impact

The fan response to the podcast's return has been overwhelmingly positive, with many thanking the UPA for their role in resolving the situation. A total of 225+ comments were posted in less than 24 hours on the SNS YouTube page, with some of the most interesting and insightful comments highlighted below:

1. @dierken43: "Thanks UPA for letting this dude do his thing. Sorry not Sorry Rocks…" (23 likes)

2. @tomford5555: "Thank you PPA, MLP and whoever played a role to support Sorry Not Sorry remain. For me, it's the only way to keep up with professional pickleball, without this channel, I wouldn't bother. Congratulations, Chris, you deserve all your success looking forward to see where you take this."

3. @jordangeddes3498: "Thank you UPA!! Way to step up and help get pickleball news and games out into the world through the lens of this awesome channel!"

4. @abdelgonzalez8430: "Hurray for UPA! UPA! UPA! This show is the pickleball equivalent of NFL Primetime! Hire this guy and put him on the payroll! Nothing sadder than pickleball videos being stored away in an Indiana Jones-type dark vault and never to be seen again."

These comments reflect the widespread appreciation for the UPA's decision and underscore the importance of Cali's podcast in keeping the community informed and engaged with the sport.

Looking Ahead: A New Chapter for 'Sorry Not Sorry'

With the legal hurdles behind him, Chris Cali is ready to dive back into the world of pickleball commentary. The renewed agreement with the UPA has given him a fresh sense of purpose, and he is eager to cover upcoming events like the Picklr Utah Open. The return of "Sorry Not Sorry" is not just a win for Cali but for the entire pickleball community, which has come to rely on his insightful and entertaining coverage.

As the podcast resumes, fans can look forward to more of the content they love, knowing that their voices played a crucial role in bringing it back. The story of "Sorry Not Sorry" is a powerful reminder of the impact a passionate community can have, and a testament to the importance of collaboration between content creators and governing bodies in the sports world.

This is the BEST backhand in pickleball. Learn Anna Leigh Waters Backhand

 

Mastering the Perfect Backhand: Anna Leigh Waters' Technique
Learn How to Achieve Power and Precision in Your Backhand

---

In this instructional guide, you'll uncover the secrets behind Anna Leigh Waters' world-class backhand, a skill that has made her one of the top players in pickleball. By following the same techniques she uses, you can transform your backhand into a powerful and precise shot. This guide will walk you through the critical components of her technique, breaking down each step so you can practice and perfect your form.

---

1. Grip (0:13)

• Place your index finger on the center of the paddle for better control.
• Use the Eastern grip, ensuring the paddle face is at the correct angle.
• Adjust and stick to your grip position for consistency.

Achieving the right grip is fundamental to maintaining control and consistency in your backhand. Anna Leigh Waters uses an Eastern grip with her index finger centered on the paddle, providing a crucial touchpoint that helps her know where the paddle is in space. This grip prevents the ball from either going into the ground or flying over the net.

---

2. Index Finger (0:40)

• Keep your index finger centered on the paddle.
• Notice the slight changes in paddle angle when adjusting the finger position.
• Maintain a consistent finger placement to ensure paddle angle control.

The placement of the index finger on the paddle's center is not just about comfort; it significantly impacts the paddle angle, which in turn affects shot accuracy. By keeping her finger in this position, Waters maintains a steady and reliable backhand shot.

---

3. How to Find the Exact Grip (1:54)

• Turn your paddle to its butt and identify the top bevel.
• Align the inside of your index knuckle and the bottom of your palm pad with the top bevel.
• Make slight adjustments to suit your comfort while keeping the core grip structure.

Finding the exact grip that works for you involves aligning your hand with the paddle's top bevel. This position, used by Anna Leigh Waters, helps generate power and control in every backhand shot.

---

4. Unit-Turn (2:50)

• Turn your body toward the side fence as you prepare for the backhand.
• Rotate your hips and legs to coil power for the shot.
• Practice turning with the paddle to maintain alignment.

The unit-turn is critical for loading power into your backhand. By turning your body toward the side fence and rotating your upper body, you build the necessary energy to release into the shot.

---

5. Unit-Load (4:19)

• Continue the unit-turn by loading your hips and legs.
• Focus on coiling the energy to maximize shot power.
• Step into the shot as you complete the load.

The unit-load is the follow-through of the unit-turn, where you fully coil your body to store power. This step is essential to unleashing a strong and effective backhand.

---

6. Swing Path (4:26)

• Keep the paddle tip facing downward as you start the swing.
• Flatten the paddle as you pull forward.
• Focus on an outward and upward motion to generate power.

The swing path is where all the preparation comes together. Waters ensures her paddle moves from a downward angle to a flat position as she swings, finishing with an upward motion to add power and spin to the shot.

---

7. Head Is Still With Contact Point (4:28)

• Keep your head still and aligned with the contact point.
• Avoid moving your head during the swing to maintain shot accuracy.
• Let your eyes and head stay on the ball for a few milliseconds after contact.

Maintaining a still head during the swing is a subtle yet crucial aspect of Waters' technique. By keeping her head aligned with the contact point, she ensures that her shots are consistently accurate and powerful.

---

Summary: By mastering these techniques, you can develop a backhand that rivals the best in the world. The key is to practice each component with attention to detail, from the grip and finger placement to the unit-turn and swing path. Consistency in these elements will lead to a more controlled, powerful, and precise backhand, just like Anna Leigh Waters.

0:00 Intro 0:13 #1 Grip 0:40 Index Finger 1:54 How To Find The Exact Grip 2:50 #2 Unit-Turn 4:19 Unit-Load 4:26 Swing Path 4:28 Head Is Still With Contact Point

2024 PPA Bristol Open Recap The soft game is DEAD! Banger Ball has ARRIVED!

 

00:00 INTRO 1:01 Singles 3:37 Mixed 5:04 Women 7:04 Men 9:44 Matty + Zane collab 10:20 Serve OP pls nerf 11:48 Save Sorry Not Sorry 12:24 Guess My DUPR