Billy Pickles
Ever been all set for an epic game of pickleball, only to have your fun squashed by some seriously irritating on-court antics? Let’s dive into the most aggravating behaviors pickleball players can exhibit and how to keep your cool when they do. Plus, we’ll share some tips on handling these situations gracefully.
1. Wild or Angry Ball Smashes
One of the top offenders is when players angrily or aimlessly whack the ball back after losing a point. One player lamented, “I came to play pickleball, not fetch because someone’s throwing a tantrum.” This forces others to chase after the ball unnecessarily, breaking the game’s rhythm.
How to Handle It: Stay composed and kindly ask the player to manage their frustration. Remind them that keeping the ball in play makes the game enjoyable for everyone.
2. Nitpicking Line Calls
Another major annoyance is being overly picky about line calls. Some players wrongly assume their opponents are making bad calls on purpose and retaliate with bad calls of their own.
How to Handle It: Stick to honest calls and maintain your integrity. If a dispute arises, suggest replaying the point to keep things fair and friendly.
3. Picking on Weaker Players
Relentlessly targeting a weaker player can ruin the fun for everyone. While it’s okay to give weaker players more balls to help them improve, there’s no need to humiliate them with aggressive shots once it’s clear they can’t handle them. As one community player put it, “Constantly targeting one player in rec ball is no fun. No one wants to stand on a court and not play.” Another added, “At least one person I play against frequently does this every time and, even when called out, continues.”
This approach not only diminishes the weaker player’s experience but also disrupts the overall enjoyment of the game.
How to Handle It: Play competitively but fairly. Encourage weaker players and focus on making the game enjoyable for all skill levels.
4. Deliberate Hard Body Shots
Constantly aiming for hard body shots, especially without apology, is another major annoyance. One player shared, “We had a guy in our group who was constantly gunning for our heads with no remorse. It wasn’t fun playing with him.”
How to Handle It: If someone continues this behavior despite friendly warnings, it might be best to stop inviting them to play. Safety and enjoyment should come first.
5. Paddle Tossing
Nothing screams bad sportsmanship quite like throwing your paddle in frustration. It’s not only dangerous but also shows a lack of respect for fellow players and the game itself.
How to Handle It: Suggest they take a deep breath and step off the court for a moment. Remind them it’s just a game, and keeping a positive attitude will help them and everyone else enjoy it more.
6. Excessive Lobbing
Overusing lobs can be particularly frustrating, especially if the player gets upset when you make them run. One player mentioned, “Half the people I play with are going to fall back and kill themselves on his stupid lobs.”
How to Handle It: Mix up your shots and strategies to keep the game dynamic. If lobs are excessive, communicate and agree on a more balanced play style.
7. Not Calling the Score
Players who don’t call the score out loud or mumble it can be incredibly frustrating. It disrupts the game flow and causes confusion.
How to Handle It: Politely remind them to call the score clearly. Consistent reminders can help build this good habit.
8. Celebrating Opponent’s Errors
It’s infuriating when players yell and celebrate after you make an easy unforced error. This behavior can be demoralizing and unsportsmanlike. As a community member noted, “Celebrating excessively when they get a point or laughing at you when you lose one—both are terrible sportsmanship.”
How to Handle It: Keep your focus on your game. If the behavior continues, have a calm conversation about maintaining sportsmanship.
9. Not Bringing Their Own Balls
Some players never bring their own balls, relying on others instead. As one player said, “They’re not broke because they have nice paddles. Just too lazy or cheap to bring balls!”
How to Handle It: Bring it up casually before the game starts, reminding everyone to contribute. You can also set a rule that everyone brings their own equipment.
10. Unsolicited Advice
There’s nothing worse than receiving constant, unsolicited advice from someone who isn’t particularly good themselves.
How to Handle It: Thank them politely but let them know you prefer to focus on your own style and learning pace.
11. Serving Before Ready
Serving before the receiver is ready can disrupt the flow and fairness of the game.
How to Handle It: Make it a habit to ensure your opponent is ready before serving. If it continues, discuss it openly and agree on a fair approach.
12. Not Moving to the NVZ
Players who don’t move to the NVZ can leave their partner to fend off opponents alone.
How to Handle It: Communicate with your partner about positioning and teamwork. Regular reminders can help reinforce good court habits.
Keeping Your Cool on the Court
The key to enjoying pickleball is keeping your cool, no matter what. It’s all about good communication and not getting petty or trying to get back at people. Here’s how to handle annoying behaviors on the court without losing your cool.
Communicate Clearly
- Speak Up: If something’s bothering you, address it calmly and politely. Clear communication can prevent misunderstandings and improve the game for everyone.
- Call the Score Loudly: Always announce the score clearly to avoid confusion and keep the game running smoothly.
Stay Positive
- Encourage Others: Compliment good shots and support your teammates. Positive reinforcement can boost morale and create a friendly atmosphere.
- Focus on Fun: Remember why you’re playing—to have fun! Keeping a light-hearted attitude can help you stay relaxed and enjoy the game more.
Avoid Pettiness
- Don’t Retaliate: If someone makes a bad line call or hits a ball out of frustration, don’t stoop to their level. Maintain your integrity and keep playing fair.
- Stay Professional: Treat every game with respect. Avoid arguing or getting into heated disputes over small issues.
Handle Annoying Behaviors Gracefully
- Be Patient: Understand that everyone has bad days. If someone is behaving poorly, give them the benefit of the doubt and focus on your game.
- Set Boundaries: If a player’s behavior is consistently disruptive, have a calm conversation about it. If necessary, involve a group leader or organizer.
By focusing on good sportsmanship and clear communication, we can all enjoy the game of pickleball to its fullest.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q. How can I address a player who constantly smashes the ball in frustration?
Stay composed and kindly ask the player to manage their frustration. Remind them that keeping the ball in play makes the game enjoyable for everyone.
Q. What should I do if someone is overly picky about line calls?
Stick to honest calls and maintain your integrity. If a dispute arises, suggest replaying the point to keep things fair and friendly.
Q. How can I handle a player who targets weaker players aggressively?
Play competitively but fairly. Encourage weaker players and focus on making the game enjoyable for all skill levels.
Q. What’s the best way to deal with a player who doesn’t call the score clearly?
Politely remind them to call the score clearly. Consistent reminders can help build this good habit.
Q. How do I handle unsolicited advice from other players?
Thank them politely but let them know you prefer to focus on your own style and learning pace.
