Whether you’re new to pickleball or chasing tournament wins, mastering the three fundamental strokes—dink, drive, and volley—is non-negotiable. These aren’t just shots; they’re the foundation of your game strategy. Let’s break each one down and get you hitting like a seasoned player.
1. The Dink — Your Soft-Game Weapon
Purpose: Control pace, force errors, and set up attacking shots.
Where Used: Mostly at the non-volley zone (NVZ) or “kitchen.”
Technique:
- Grip — Use a continental grip (paddle face neutral).
- Stance — Feet shoulder-width apart, knees slightly bent, weight on the balls of your feet.
- Swing — Minimal backswing; push the ball with your shoulder, not your wrist.
- Contact Point — In front of your body, paddle face slightly open for a gentle lift.
- Follow-Through — Short, controlled—end at about waist height.
Pro Tip: Keep your paddle up between shots so you’re ready for quick exchanges. Aim just over the net to keep opponents from attacking.
2. The Drive — Your Power Play
Purpose: Apply pressure, force weak returns, and punish high balls.
Where Used: From baseline or mid-court, especially against pop-ups.
Technique:
- Grip — Eastern or semi-western for more topspin and control.
- Stance — Square up to the ball with a low athletic base.
- Swing — Smooth backswing, accelerate forward through the ball.
- Contact Point — Out in front at waist-to-chest height.
- Follow-Through — Paddle finishes high and forward to drive the ball deep.
Pro Tip: Power without accuracy is wasted. Drive deep into your opponent’s weaker side or at their body to jam their swing.
3. The Volley — Instant Reaction Control
Purpose: Cut off balls early, maintain net control, and attack quickly.
Where Used: At the NVZ line, intercepting balls before they bounce.
Technique:
- Grip — Continental grip for easy forehand/backhand transitions.
- Stance — Athletic split step, paddle up in front of your chest.
- Swing — Short punch, using your shoulder—not a full swing.
- Contact Point — Slightly in front of your body, paddle face aimed toward target.
- Follow-Through — Controlled and compact to keep balance.
Pro Tip: Keep your volleys compact—long swings at the net often send the ball out or into the net.
How to Practice All Three Together
Drill Idea:
- Two minutes of soft dinks crosscourt.
- Two minutes of baseline drives down the line.
- Two minutes of quick volleys with a partner at the NVZ.
Repeat for 3–4 rounds, focusing on form first, speed second.
Final Word:
Dinks, drives, and volleys aren’t separate skills—they’re chapters in the same story. Blend them seamlessly, and you’ll control rallies instead of just reacting. The real secret? Repetition with intention. Don’t just hit—train with purpose.
