A Pickleball Ernie is a shot in pickleball that is hit from the non-volley zone at the side of the court. It is a popular shot that requires good timing and accuracy.
Pickleball is a fast-growing racket sport that combines elements of tennis, badminton, and ping-pong. It is played on a smaller court with solid paddles and perforated plastic balls. One of the advanced shots in pickleball is the Ernie, named after Ernie Brubaker, the player who popularized it.
This shot is executed by hitting the ball out of the air from the non-volley zone on the side of the court. It requires quick reflexes and precise placement to catch opponents off guard and score points. We will delve into the details of the Pickleball Ernie, discussing its technique, strategy, and when to use it to gain an advantage in the game.
What Is Pickleball Ernie?
Pickleball Ernie is a strategic shot in pickleball where the player hits the ball on the volley from the non-volley zone, aiming to hit it wide and low, making it difficult for the opponent to return. It is a skillful move that can give players an advantage during gameplay.
Definition Of Pickleball Ernie
Pickleball Ernie is a shot that is played by a player in the non-volley zone, commonly known as the kitchen, in the game of pickleball. It is a technique used to hit the ball over the opponent’s head, aiming for a deep shot that lands near the baseline. This shot is often played when the opposing team is at the net, and the Ernie shot allows the player to gain an advantage by hitting the ball around the opponent, putting them in a defensive position.
Origin Of The Term Ernie
The term “Ernie” in pickleball originates from the legendary pickleball player Ernie Medina. Ernie Medina was famous for his skillful execution of the Ernie shot, which became a signature move that other players started to adopt. Medina’s innovative shot gained popularity in the pickleball community, and soon enough, players began referring to the shot as the “Ernie.” This term has been widely accepted and is now commonly used to describe this specific shot in the game of pickleball.
Pickleball Ernie Shot
The Pickleball Ernie shot is a popular and advanced shot in the game of pickleball. This unique shot is named after Ernie, a pickleball player who first popularized it. The Ernie shot involves hitting the ball while outside the sideline, resulting in a powerful and unexpected shot that can catch opponents off guard.
Description Of The Ernie Shot
The Ernie shot is executed by positioning yourself outside the sideline near the net, usually near the kitchen line. When an opponent hits a shot from one side of the court, you quickly move to the opposite side and hit the ball before it bounces. The key is to hit the ball while it is still in the air, creating a fast and aggressive shot.
Technique And Execution
To execute the Ernie shot successfully, you need excellent footwork and anticipation skills. As the opponent hits the ball, you quickly move towards the opposite side, making sure to stay outside the sideline. Keep your racket up and ready to meet the ball in mid-air, using a quick and powerful swing. Focus on hitting the ball with precision and placing it strategically to surprise your opponents.
Effectiveness And Strategy
The Ernie shot is highly effective as it catches opponents off guard and often results in a winning point. Since it is an advanced shot, players who master it can gain a significant advantage over their opponents. The element of surprise, combined with the shot’s power, makes it difficult for opponents to anticipate and return effectively. It is a strategic shot that can disrupt the opponent’s rhythm and force errors.
Players Known For The Ernie Shot
Pickleball Ernie is a unique shot in the sport of pickleball that involves the player hitting the ball from outside the court boundary, creating an unexpected angle and surprising their opponents. It is an advanced shot that is not commonly used by all players, but it can be a game-changer for those who have mastered it.
Prominent Pickleball Players Who Use The Ernie Shot
The Ernie shot is named after Ernie Medina, a well-known pickleball player who popularized this unconventional technique. While Ernie himself is known for using this shot to great effect, there are also other notable pickleball players who have incorporated the Ernie shot into their gameplay.
| Player Name | Description |
|---|---|
| Ben Johns | One of the top pickleball players, known for exceptional power and agility. |
| Kyle Yates | A skilled player with incredible shot-making ability, often deploys the Ernie shot to catch opponents off guard. |
| Simone Jardim | A dominant force in women’s pickleball, her Ernie shots make her a formidable competitor. |
Notable Performances Using Ernie Shot
The Ernie shot has been witnessed in some memorable pickleball performances over the years. Here are a few instances where players showcased their skills by executing the Ernie shot at crucial moments:
- Ben Johns’ Ernie shot at the US Open Championship, which helped secure a crucial point in the final set.
- Kyle Yates’ clever use of the Ernie shot to score consecutive points, turned the tide in a fiercely contested match.
- Simone Jardim’s surprise Ernie shot during a major tournament, leaving both her opponents and spectators in awe.
The Ernie shot continues to excite pickleball enthusiasts, as players push the boundaries of their creativity and strategically employ this unconventional technique. It adds an element of surprise, making the game even more thrilling for both players and spectators alike.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is An Ernie In Pickleball?
In pickleball, an Ernie refers to a strategy where players move towards the kitchen line to intercept a shot and hit it before it bounces. It is an aggressive tactic used to gain an advantage by catching opponents off guard.
What Is A Bert In Pickleball?
A Bert in pickleball refers to a type of shot where the ball is hit softly and lands near the net. It is a low and slow shot that is difficult for opponents to return, making it an effective strategy in the game.
What Is Pickleball Slang For?
Pickleball slang is used to refer to the informal language and expressions specific to the game of pickleball. It includes terms like dink, kitchen, and lob that players use to communicate and describe certain actions or strategies during gameplay.
Can You Step In The Kitchen Before An Ernie?
No, you cannot step in the kitchen before an ernie.
Final Thoughts
A Pickleball Ernie is a strategic shot that can be a game-changer in the world of pickleball. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced player, mastering this shot can help you gain an edge over your opponents. By executing the Ernie, you can add variety to your game and surprise your opponents with its effectiveness.
Incorporating this shot into your repertoire will not only elevate your skill level but also add excitement to your pickleball experience. So, get out on the court and start perfecting your Ernie!
Neil jacobson is an avid Pickleball enthusiast, writer, and coach dedicated to sharing the joy and intricacies of the sport. With 6 years of experience on the court and a passion for teaching, Courtney brings a unique perspective to his writing, offering practical insights and strategies for players of all levels. As a certified Pickleball coach, his mission is to inspire and empower individuals to excel in the game while fostering a sense of community within the Pickleball world. Through his articles, guides, and coaching sessions, Neil aims to elevate the playing experience and share the infectious enthusiasm that defines the Pickleball community.
