The Ideal Pickleball Doubles Partner: Players Describe Their Dream Teammate
Last Edited
Sep 09 2024
Category
Community
When it comes to playing pickleball doubles, one thing is clear: having the right partner can make or break your game.
Whether you're competing in a local tournament or just hitting the courts for some fun, players agree that the ideal pickleball partner is a blend of skills, attitude, and energy.
We've seen pickleballers from different skill levels share their dream doubles partner qualities across various posts, threads, and social media channels over the last couple of years.
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The consensus? It’s not just about being great with a paddle—it’s about being great with people. Here’s what players had to say:
Intensity and Positivity: Players crave someone intense but positive, a partner who’s reliable and both a defensive wall and an offensive spark.
Fun and Chemistry: I.e. someone that is not a joy thief. The best partners bring energy to the court without letting mistakes drag them down. It’s the partner who can laugh after a missed shot and still play hard for the next win.
Clear Communication: Players emphasized the importance of partners who step up. "The one who says, 'I’ve got it,' and they do!" Clarity on the court translates into trust.
Friendly and Supportive: Partners want someone who can lift their spirits and doesn’t bail when the going gets tough. That’s real partnership.
Matching Energy: Adjusting your energy to match your partner’s can be the difference between a good and a bad day on the court. Some partners need you to hype them up; others want you to stay calm and steady.
Adapting Roles: Knowing when to lead and when to follow is crucial. Some partners want to take charge, while others play better when they feel supported.
Mutual Respect: Building a partnership is all about understanding each other's strengths. A lopsided relationship, where one partner ignores the other’s contributions, quickly falls apart.
The bottom line? The best pickleball partner is someone who elevates their teammate, both mentally and physically.
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How to Be the Best Doubles Partner in Pickleball
Now, let’s dive into the actionable tips. Here’s how you can step up your game and become that dream partner:
1. Encourage Them No Matter What
Your partner will make mistakes—it’s inevitable. Instead of showing frustration or staying silent, switch it up with a fist bump or a paddle tap.
That quick gesture tells them, "I’ve got your back," and can keep their spirits high, even after a tough shot.
2. Focus Forward
Harping on the last play doesn’t help anyone. Replace the negative with forward-focused thinking.
Instead of saying, "Why did you hit that lob?" go with, "Let's hit them down the middle next time, they haven't covered it all day."
This keeps things positive and productive, which boosts your partner’s confidence since you're not actually blaming them for anything.
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3. Get Specific with Praise
Generic compliments are nice, but specific praise takes things to the next level.
Instead of saying, "Good job," try, "That backhand drop was unreal." Highlighting particular strengths encourages your partner to keep up the good work.
Being a great doubles partner in pickleball is more than just skill. It’s about energy, communication, and lifting each other up. When you bring those qualities to the court, you make the game better—not just for you, but for your entire partnership.
So, next time you hit the court, ask yourself: Would my partner call me the best teammate ever? If the answer’s "yes," you’re already on the right track. If the answer is "no," you need to re-read this article.
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