Pickle Pete
Topspin dinks are a vital skill in pickleball, offering players an edge in control and placement. Pro player and coach Will East breaks down the technique into a three-part lesson, empowering players to add this skill to their arsenal.
Part 1: Paddle Positioning and Movement
The foundation of a topspin dink lies in the paddle’s initial position and subsequent movement. Begin by positioning your paddle below the ball. This setup is crucial for generating topspin.
The motion should be a fluid, low-to-high swing. This upward trajectory is essential for both lifting the ball and imparting spin. Avoid relying excessively on wrist action, as this can lead to inconsistency.
Key Focus:
- Start Low: Begin with your paddle beneath the ball.
- Upward Swing: Execute a low-to-high movement for optimal spin.
- Consistency Over Wristiness: Maintain a steady paddle motion to avoid erratic shots.
Part 2: Paddle Angle Mastery
Paddle angle plays a pivotal role in executing a successful topspin dink. Imagine your paddle’s face aligned at a ‘7 and 2’ position on a clock face. As you swing, maintain this angle consistently. This alignment ensures that the ‘7’ leads the swing, contributing to the topspin while maintaining control.
Key Focus:
- 7 and 2 Alignment: Keep this consistent angle throughout the swing.
- Controlled Swing Path: Ensure a smooth, uninterrupted upward path.
Part 3: Engaging Your Body
The final piece of the topspin dink puzzle involves your body movement, particularly getting low. By lowering your body, you align yourself ideally to execute the low-to-high paddle motion effectively. Use your legs to generate upward force, aiding the topspin effect and contributing to a controlled dink.
Key Focus:
- Lower Body Position: Bend your knees to get under the ball.
- Use Your Legs: Generate lift and power through your legs.
Watch and Learn from Will East
To truly understand the mechanics of the topspin dink, watch Will East demonstrate these techniques. His execution of paddle positioning, angle, and body movement offers a practical visual guide to mastering this skill.
Elevating Your Dink Game
By breaking down the topspin dink into these three critical components, players at any level can start to incorporate this effective technique into their game. Remember, consistency in paddle movement, precise paddle angle, and effective body positioning are the keys to mastering the topspin dink in pickleball.
Best Paddle for Adding Spin
The best paddle for adding spin combines the right surface texture, materials, and design to maximize friction and grip on the ball. Our team recommends the Engage Pursuit EX as one of the best options for those looking to add spin to their strategic shots.
Further Learning with Will East
Enhance your pickleball skills with more of Will’s expert advice:
- Mastering Defense Against Overheads in Pickleball
- 3 Pro Tips for Mastering the Backhand Slice in Pickleball
By incorporating these lessons and the right equipment into your practice, you can elevate your game and gain a strategic advantage on the court.
