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- James Ignatowich Newsletter
James Ignatowich Newsletter
The Eighth Edition
How to Hit and Defend Overheads like a Pro
Bend those Knees and Drop the Paddle ‼️
Stay calm and give yourself some extra space
⬆️ Click The Video Above ⬆️
Hot Take 🔥
Let Lefty’s Cook
As you see in the pro game, there’s usually not a 50/50 divide between shots taken by each teammate - usually the left side player is taking more balls out of the middle and looking to create offense more. This should NOT be the case if you’re playing with a lefty (with some exceptions). One of the biggest misconceptions is that the player on the left is looking to dictate because they’re on the left. It’s not about someone being on the left or right, it’s about who is in better position with a forehand. Most people find it easier to speed up off the forehand side, and it’s easier to reach middle dinks out of the air with the forehand. The good thing about playing with a lefty is you’re both equipped with this advantage for the whole game.
You don’t need to step over the middle to take a forehand when you’re playing with a lefty. It’s actually better for the lefty to take it so you’re both in position for the next shot. Another important part of this is the ability to attack both players. You’re usually attacking in front of you or through the middle, so a lefty taking some middle balls will put more pressure on the opposing left side player, by presenting a potential speed up. Playing with a lefty is also a huge benefit on defense, allowing for you to really own your line and let the lefty cover the middle with their forehand. Crashing and and Erne’s are also easier to execute with a lefty - make sure you’re taking full advantage!
One other thing to note is that communication probably needs to be heightened when playing with a lefty. Some lefties get accustomed to being boxed out of middle balls so they might not always be taking the middle when you think they will - just speak up when it’s ever in question!
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Get that Extra Juice on the put away shot 💪🏽
Snap your wrist at contact for more power!
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Featured Pro Tip: Rachel Rohrabacher
Topspin roll dinks by Rachel ⬇️
Hi guys! I’m going to be talking about the topspin dink compared to the slice dink. This is a really important shot for me, or anyone looking to gain offense because I can hit it a lot harder through the court, and it could be disguised as a speed up. From a technique standpoint, the most important thing to focus on for this shot is moving the right leg behind the ball. I want my right leg behind the ball to make sure I’m not reaching and can drop the paddle so the wrist motion upwards is consistent. When you’re reaching, you might have to break your wrist at contact, which is less than ideal. It’s also really important to stay low on this shot, especially because your paddle is going low to high, so it’s even a little natural to pop your body up. Also, make contact as close to the peak as possible!
The forehand roll dink is aggressive by nature, and I’m typically aiming in the middle or one of the corners of the kitchen. The perfect roll dink is low and penetrating, making the opponent fall off the kitchen line to defend it. If you’re able to hit this shot consistently, you’ll make your life a lot easier because the opponent is unlikely to be leaning in, trying to take your aggressive dinks out of the air. As you get better, you’ll be more aware of offensive control at the kitchen line, and the forehand roll dink is a great way to apply consistent pressure.
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