Pony Express Pickle Ball Club

09/11/2026

09/08/2026

Just a heads up! This Saturday (12th) the City will be holding the Corporate Challenge at the Bode courts during the day. You can still play at the Corby courts, Hyde or Northside complex. If any of our members are playing in the Corporate Challenge we wish you the best.

09/08/2026

🔥 Stop Smashing Harder—Start Smashing Smarter. 🏓

In pickleball, a powerful overhead can look impressive, but placement is what usually makes the shot difficult to defend. The best players do not simply swing as hard as possible. They look at the defenders, recognise the open space, and choose a target before making contact.

When you get a high ball, one useful option is to attack the paddle-side hip or elbow area. This can jam the defender and make it difficult to decide whether to block with the forehand or adjust the body. A well-placed shot here can be more uncomfortable than a harder ball hit directly into the defender’s comfortable strike zone.

Another option is the body smash. The purpose is not just power; it is to reduce the opponent’s reaction space. A ball directed toward the torso or hip can force a late, defensive block and may create an easy next ball for you and your partner.

The middle gap is also one of the smartest targets in doubles. When the ball travels between two opponents, both players may hesitate for a fraction of a second because they are unsure who should take it. That small moment of confusion can be enough to win the rally or produce a weak return.

Then there is the open sideline. If one defender has moved too far toward the centre, the outside space may become available. This can be an excellent attacking target, but it comes with less margin for error. Aim too wide and you give the point away yourself. Use this option when the opening is genuinely there rather than forcing it.

The main lesson is simple: you do not need maximum power on every overhead. Read the court first. Look at your opponents’ positions, identify the weakest space, and then choose the percentage target.

A smart overhead might go into the body. It might split the middle. It might attack an awkward hip. Occasionally, it might go cleanly down the sideline.

Power can finish a ball. Placement can make it almost impossible to defend. 🎯🏓

Next time you get a sitter, ask yourself one question before swinging:

“Where will this ball be hardest for them to handle?”

09/07/2026

More from Labor Day at Bode

09/04/2026

Reminder:

Hey everyone! We’re getting together for a little Labor Day fun and would love for you to join us!

Good food, cold drinks, great friends, and plenty of laughs. Nothing fancy—just a chance to relax, enjoy the day,hang out and play Pickleball if you want.

Drinks and refreshments provided. You do not need to bring anything unless you want to. We have it covered.

📅 Monday, September 7
⏰ 8-10:30 am
📍 Bode Pickleball Courts

Come hungry, bring a smile, and let’s enjoy the holiday together! 🇺🇸😎

Flyer attached! Loop

09/04/2026

Just a reminder watch for more information.