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What I Wish I'd Known Sooner About Improving in Pickleball
Jeremy Bourgeois
Written by
Jeremy Bourgeois

What I Wish I'd Known Sooner About Improving in Pickleball

Published on
July 30, 2025
After spending countless hours on the pickleball court, I've recently discovered a huge missing piece in my training: consistency drills. Instead of just chasing flashy shots, I've realized mastering fundamental consistency is the key to becoming the player I want to be. Here's what changed my game.
Avoiding Burnout in Pickleball
Jeremy Bourgeois
Written by
Jeremy Bourgeois

Avoiding Burnout in Pickleball

Published on
July 28, 2025
I can spend an hour drilling drop shots and feel like I’m making real progress, but when the score is tied 10-10 in an actual match, that same shot feels completely different because the pressure changes everything. It reveals something that no amount of drilling ever can: how you perform when it truly matters. The only way to build confidence in those high-stakes moments is by gaining experience through tournament play, and right now, the real challenge is staying motivated without the urgency of competition to expose and confront my weaknesses.
Drugs in Pickleball: Is It Cheating?
Jeremy Bourgeois
Written by
Jeremy Bourgeois

Drugs in Pickleball: Is It Cheating?

Published on
July 26, 2025
What if the secret weapon behind some athletes’ insane focus isn’t talent or training, but a little pill with big consequences? Before you reach for Adderall to get an edge, there’s a lot you need to know.
Why Helios Pickleball in Manila Is a Game Changer for Asia’s Sports Economy and Global Pickleball
Geoff Bourgeois
Written by
Geoff Bourgeois

Why Helios Pickleball in Manila Is a Game Changer for Asia’s Sports Economy and Global Pickleball

Published on
July 25, 2025
Helios Pickleball in Manila marks Asia’s first pro pickleball complex, driving economic growth and industry momentum. This landmark project signals the rise of a larger global pickleball industry—creating opportunities for local businesses, drawing international events, and paving the way for world-class facilities across Asia and beyond. As the sport explodes in popularity, investments like Helios highlight pickleball’s evolution from niche pastime to billion-dollar global industry.
Getting Ready for Competition
Jeremy Bourgeois
Written by
Jeremy Bourgeois

Getting Ready for Competition

Published on
July 23, 2025
In this post, I talk about how I’m preparing for upcoming pickleball tournaments in the U.S., including the JOOLA Celebration and PPA Challenger Orlando. From drilling drop shots and backhands to dialing in nutrition and injury prevention, it’s a full-spectrum look at what it takes to compete at the 4.5 level.
12 Straight: The Match That Proved Pickleball’s Athletic Hustle
Geoff Bourgeois
Written by
Geoff Bourgeois

12 Straight: The Match That Proved Pickleball’s Athletic Hustle

Published on
July 17, 2025
In one of the most electrifying displays of athleticism and mental grit in pro pickleball history, third-seed Connor Garnett stages back-to-back comebacks against ninth-seed Jack Sock at the Select Medical Orange County Cup. After erasing a 9–2 deficit to win the first game 11–9, Garnett faces a 0–10 mountain in the second--and climbs it, winning 12 straight points to seal a 12–10 victory. This piece captures the drama, psychology, and raw physicality of elite men’s singles, highlighting why pickleball has become the most intense combat sport you’re not paying enough attention to.
Living the Pickleball Grind in Paradise
Jeremy Bourgeois
Written by
Jeremy Bourgeois

Living the Pickleball Grind in Paradise

Published on
July 16, 2025
Jeremy shares some of the positives and negatives of trying to become a high-level pickleball player while living in Nicaragua. From private courts in paradise to the challenge of finding serious competition, here’s what the grind really looks like in Rancho Santana.
How a Former Tennis Coach Fixed My Pickleball Drive Shot at Hacienda Iguana, Nicaragua
Geoff Bourgeois
Written by
Geoff Bourgeois

How a Former Tennis Coach Fixed My Pickleball Drive Shot at Hacienda Iguana, Nicaragua

Published on
July 15, 2025
During a recent pickleball session in Nicaragua, my drive shot mysteriously fell apart... until Jason Hallquest, a former tennis coach and local surf and pickleball friend at Hacienda Iguana, spotted one subtle wrist angle issue and changed everything. With a simple biomechanical fix, I went from frustration to ripping forehands with effortless topspin. This post is about that micro-adjustment, how it unlocked consistency, and why breakthroughs like this keep me obsessed with the sport.
The Power of the Journey: Pickleball, Content Creation, and the AI Search Revolution - Zane Ford's Lesson
Geoff Bourgeois
Written by
Geoff Bourgeois

The Power of the Journey: Pickleball, Content Creation, and the AI Search Revolution - Zane Ford's Lesson

Published on
July 7, 2025
No matter where you are in your pickleball journey, your business venture, or your creative hustle: Start posting now! Don’t be shy about where you are. That vulnerability will sharpen you and connect you to the world. In the AI era, sharing your journey is how you stay discoverable, unmistakably human, and build a business.
Warping Point Ascent Review: Carbon Fiber Paddle Under $100
Liz Bourgeois
Written by
Liz Bourgeois

Warping Point Ascent Review: Carbon Fiber Paddle Under $100

Published on
July 7, 2025
Warping Point sent me their Ascent Red and Green carbon fiber paddles to try out, and in this review I'm sharing my honest thoughts. These paddles are great options for beginner to intermediate players thanks to their affordable price point, respectable build quality, and surprisingly competitive levels of grit. Whether you're just getting started or looking to upgrade from a cheap starter paddle, the Ascent series delivers solid performance without breaking the bank.
Why Training with an Old Pickleball Paddle Might Be Your Secret Weapon
Jeremy Bourgeois
Written by
Jeremy Bourgeois

Why Training with an Old Pickleball Paddle Might Be Your Secret Weapon

Published on
July 2, 2025
Ever wonder why pros mess around with old-school gear? I’m here to show you how drilling with a beat-up, lead-weighted pickleball paddle can sharpen your skills, build real strength, and make your fancy gen 3 paddle feel like a rocket launcher when it counts. This approach isn’t just theory; it’s how you turn solid fundamentals into an unfair advantage on the court.
Palmera Pickleball Venue Preview: What to Expect
Jeremy Bourgeois
Written by
Jeremy Bourgeois

Palmera Pickleball Venue Preview: What to Expect

Published on
June 20, 2025
Palmera Pickleball is building a world-class venue in Nicaragua with eight indoor Ben Johns Signature courts, indoor palm trees, a café, a gym, and a coworking space. Take a sneak peek with these render pictures and see what makes this facility the new standard for pickleball.
Battling Foot Pain as a Pickleball Player
Jeremy Bourgeois
Written by
Jeremy Bourgeois

Battling Foot Pain as a Pickleball Player

Published on
June 17, 2025
After months of pain and confusion, I finally got answers about a foot injury that just wouldn’t go away. It wasn’t what I expected, and the real cause forced me to look way beyond my feet. This is the story of what I discovered, what I went through, and how I’m working my way back to the court.
How Janelle Braverman Went From Player to Builder
Jeremy Bourgeois
Written by
Jeremy Bourgeois

How Janelle Braverman Went From Player to Builder

Published on
June 16, 2025
Pickleball is one of the fastest growing sports in the world, and entrepreneurs are starting to take serious notice. Among them is Janelle Braverman, a lifelong athlete with sharp business instincts. In a recent YouTube interview with Geoff Bourgeois, CEO of Palmera Pickleball, she shares how she got into the sport and how she plans to invest.
From Courtly Duels to Social Rallies: Tennis, Padel, and Pickleball in Contrast
Geoff Bourgeois
Written by
Geoff Bourgeois

From Courtly Duels to Social Rallies: Tennis, Padel, and Pickleball in Contrast

Published on
June 11, 2025
This essay examines how racquet sports reflect societal values, tracing tennis’s elite, solitary roots, pickleball’s community-driven rise, and padel’s balanced fusion of both. Though similar in form, small design differences shape vastly different cultures—individualism in tennis, connection in pickleball, and a hybrid ethos in padel.
Why Everyone Should Play Pickleball
Geoff Bourgeois
Written by
Geoff Bourgeois

Why Everyone Should Play Pickleball

Published on
June 10, 2025
Pickleball is the most accessible sport for all ages—benefiting kids, teens, adults, and seniors alike. From boosting brain development and emotional regulation to improving balance, reflexes, and grip strength, pickleball supports lifelong cognitive and physical health. It’s more than a game—it’s community, joy, and personal growth.
Why I Like the Johns Brothers (and What Ben & Collin Are Building Off the Court)
Geoff Bourgeois
Written by
Geoff Bourgeois

Why I Like the Johns Brothers (and What Ben & Collin Are Building Off the Court)

Published on
June 9, 2025
Ben and Collin Johns are redefining what it means to be pro athletes—building businesses like Pickleball360 and RacketPro while dominating the PPA Tour. Their work with JOOLA and global expansion efforts show how athlete-led entrepreneurship is shaping the future of pickleball.
Lessons from the Punta Gorda PPA Challenger: My Ongoing Pickleball Journey
Abigail Bourgeois
Written by
Abigail Bourgeois

Lessons from the Punta Gorda PPA Challenger: My Ongoing Pickleball Journey

Published on
June 1, 2025
Last week at the Punta Gorda PPA Challenger, I faced some of the toughest mental battles of my pickleball journey. From struggling with nerves in singles to finding calm and rhythm in doubles, every match taught me the value of resilience and focus. The weekend wasn’t about the wins or losses; it was about growth, grit, and learning.
The Palmera Vision: Pickleball and Individuation
Geoff Bourgeois
Written by
Geoff Bourgeois

The Palmera Vision: Pickleball and Individuation

Published on
May 29, 2025
Discover how pickleball becomes more than just a game—it's a catalyst for self-awareness, personal growth, and individuation. In this visionary piece from Palmera Pickleball CEO Geoff Bourgeois, explore the deeper psychology behind play, competition, and building a global destination for human development through sport.
PPA Punta Gorda 4.0 Singles Recap: Silver Medal Takeaways
Jeremy Bourgeois
Written by
Jeremy Bourgeois

PPA Punta Gorda 4.0 Singles Recap: Silver Medal Takeaways

Published on
May 29, 2025
A personal recap of the PPA Challenger tournament in Punta Gorda. From early morning matches to silver in 4.0 singles, here’s what Jeremy learned.
Zane Ford and the Truth About PPA Challenger vs Premier Events
Geoff Bourgeois
Written by
Geoff Bourgeois

Zane Ford and the Truth About PPA Challenger vs Premier Events

Published on
May 29, 2025
Zane Ford’s appearance in mixed doubles at the PPA Challenger in Punta Gorda became a hot topic during a match in the back draw—but was it unethical as claimed or part of the pro system? We dive into the drama, the ladder system, and why PPA Challenger events matter more than people think.
Punta Gorda Tournament Recap: Lessons Learned, Goals Set
Mackenzie Bourgeois
Written by
Mackenzie Bourgeois

Punta Gorda Tournament Recap: Lessons Learned, Goals Set

Published on
May 28, 2025
This weekend’s tournament brought intense heat, challenging matches, and valuable takeaways. From a tough singles start to strong teamwork in doubles and mixed play, I faced setbacks with resilience and left more focused than ever. Looking ahead to Orlando with renewed motivation and a clear game plan.
Morning Reps and Revelation: A CEO’s Solo Pickleball Drill Session Before the PPA Challenger in Punta Gorda
Geoff Bourgeois
Written by
Geoff Bourgeois

Morning Reps and Revelation: A CEO’s Solo Pickleball Drill Session Before the PPA Challenger in Punta Gorda

Published on
May 22, 2025
Discover how solo pickleball drills like a focused inside-out forehand session can unlock major breakthroughs in performance. CEO Geoff Bourgeois shares some of his training before the PPA Challenger in Punta Gorda, and why scenario-based repetition is key to mastery.
Interview with Cody Brick | The Palmera Pickleball Show: Episode 2
Jeremy Bourgeois
Written by
Jeremy Bourgeois

Interview with Cody Brick | The Palmera Pickleball Show: Episode 2

Published on
May 20, 2025
Cody Brick, founder of Brickwall Pickleball, joins The Palmera Pickleball Show to discuss how he's drawing national attention with his high-energy Moneyball tournaments. Learn how his unique approach is reshaping the competitive pickleball scene.
Why CEOs Who Play Pickleball (or Any Sport) Lead Better: Staying Sharp in 60+ Hour Weeks
Geoff Bourgeois
Written by
Geoff Bourgeois

Why CEOs Who Play Pickleball (or Any Sport) Lead Better: Staying Sharp in 60+ Hour Weeks

Published on
May 16, 2025
Every CEO needs an arena. For me, it's the pickleball court. For you, maybe it’s squash, golf, hockey, or shooting hoops. The sport is secondary. What matters is flow—carving out sacred time each week where body and mind align. Because when you're logging 60-90 hour weeks, pushing through on fumes only gets you so far. To lead at the highest level, you need routines that sustain your edge. That’s not a luxury. That’s operational necessity (and security).
The Beauty of Pickleball: Why This Inclusive Racket Sport Is Taking Over
Jeremy Bourgeois
Written by
Jeremy Bourgeois

The Beauty of Pickleball: Why This Inclusive Racket Sport Is Taking Over

Published on
May 16, 2025
Pickleball isn’t just a sport, it’s a cultural shift. This fast-growing paddle game is redefining what makes a sport accessible, inclusive, and fun for all ages. From urban courts to rural communities, pickleball offers affordable, low-impact action that unites families, neighbors, and total strangers. This piece breaks down why it’s the sport everyone should be paying attention to.
Heading into the PPA Challenger Punta Gorda 2025
Abigail Bourgeois
Written by
Abigail Bourgeois

Heading into the PPA Challenger Punta Gorda 2025

Published on
May 15, 2025
Follow my journey to the 2025 Punta Gorda PPA Challenger as I compete in 4.0 pickleball singles, doubles, and mixed with family by my side!
Why Is Pickleball So Addicting?
Jeremy Bourgeois
Written by
Jeremy Bourgeois

Why Is Pickleball So Addicting?

Published on
May 12, 2025
What makes pickleball so addicting? From dopamine and endorphins to social connection and sensory satisfaction, this fast-growing sport hits all the right triggers in your brain and body. Discover why players of all ages can’t get enough of the game that feels like play but works like a workout.
Beginner Paddle Guide: 14mm vs 16mm
Jeremy Bourgeois
Written by
Jeremy Bourgeois

Beginner Paddle Guide: 14mm vs 16mm

Published on
May 9, 2025
Trying to decide between a 14mm or 16mm pickleball paddle? This beginner-friendly guide breaks down paddle thickness, pros and cons, and which one you should choose.
The Two Types of Players in Pickleball (And Why Both Matter)
Mackenzie Bourgeois
Written by
Mackenzie Bourgeois

The Two Types of Players in Pickleball (And Why Both Matter)

Published on
May 8, 2025
In every pickleball community, two types of players stand out—those who are obsessed with pickleball and are chasing growth, and those just playing for fun. This piece explores how both mindsets shape the game, why mutual respect matters, and how even small efforts can elevate everyone's experience.
Pickleball Injuries Are Real: What Competitive Players Deal With
Jeremy Bourgeois
Written by
Jeremy Bourgeois

Pickleball Injuries Are Real: What Competitive Players Deal With

Published on
May 8, 2025
Think pickleball isn’t a real sport? Tell that to the athletes sidelined with tennis elbow, stress fractures, and chronic foot pain. This blog breaks down the real injuries competitive players face—and how to prevent them so you can stay on the court and off the bench.
Why I Like Singles More Than Doubles in Pickleball
Abigail Bourgeois
Written by
Abigail Bourgeois

Why I Like Singles More Than Doubles in Pickleball

Published on
May 7, 2025
I don’t play singles because I hate doubles—I play singles because I love running the show. No guesswork, no soft shots unless I feel like it, and definitely no babysitting someone else’s pop-ups. Just me, the court, and a whole lot of forehands down the line.
Best Pickleball Paddle Surface Types: Carbon Fiber, Kevlar, and Spray-On Grit Explained
Jeremy Bourgeois
Written by
Jeremy Bourgeois

Best Pickleball Paddle Surface Types: Carbon Fiber, Kevlar, and Spray-On Grit Explained

Published on
May 7, 2025
New to pickleball and wondering which paddle surface is right for you? I discuss carbon fiber, Kevlar, and spray-on grit in plain English so you can pick the paddle that fits your game, your budget, and your vibe.
Not All Sports Are Created Equal: The Case for Team Sports Over Tennis—and Why Pickleball Is the Beautiful Fusion of Both
Geoff Bourgeois
Written by
Geoff Bourgeois

Not All Sports Are Created Equal: The Case for Team Sports Over Tennis—and Why Pickleball Is the Beautiful Fusion of Both

Published on
May 5, 2025
Pickleball is more than a trending sport—it's a global movement redefining competition, community, and opportunity. In this op-ed, Geoff Bourgeois explores why team sports build better culture than tennis, how pickleball fuses the best of both worlds, and why investors should pay close attention.
Addicted to Trauma: How the Mind Becomes Wired for Pain—and How to Reclaim It
Geoff Bourgeois
Written by
Geoff Bourgeois

Addicted to Trauma: How the Mind Becomes Wired for Pain—and How to Reclaim It

Published on
May 4, 2025
Trauma addiction isn’t just psychological—it’s physiological. This in-depth exploration connects the dots between neuroplasticity and trauma, cortisol and PTSD, and how negative self-talk becomes hardwired through myelination trauma loops. Whether you're a high-performance athlete or just beginning your healing trauma habits, this article delivers powerful insights from sports psychology that can help rewire your brain, reclaim peace, and even improve your focus on the pickleball court. A must-read for anyone serious about negative self-talk recovery and performance under pressure.
Beginner Pickleball Mistakes: 3 Rules I Messed Up and What They Really Mean
Abigail Bourgeois
Written by
Abigail Bourgeois

Beginner Pickleball Mistakes: 3 Rules I Messed Up and What They Really Mean

Published on
May 1, 2025
New to pickleball and confused by the rules? I break down three of the trickiest ones for beginners — the kitchen rule, the double bounce rule, and who makes line calls. These quick tips come from real mistakes I made when I first started, so if you're just learning the game, this post will help you play smarter and with more confidence.
JOOLA 3S vs. JOOLA Pro IV Comparison (14mm Review)
Jeremy Bourgeois
Written by
Jeremy Bourgeois

JOOLA 3S vs. JOOLA Pro IV Comparison (14mm Review)

Published on
April 29, 2025
In this detailed comparison of the JOOLA 3S 14mm and JOOLA Pro IV 14mm pickleball paddles, find out which paddle delivers better power, control, durability, and spin. Learn about key upgrades like TFP core technology and if the Pro IV is worth the upgrade.
Team Nicaragua Heads to 2025 Pickleball World Cup
Jeremy Bourgeois
Written by
Jeremy Bourgeois

Team Nicaragua Heads to 2025 Pickleball World Cup

Published on
April 26, 2025
Team Nicaragua is set to compete at the 2025 Pickleball World Cup in Fort Lauderdale, with native Nicaraguan athletes joining the roster for the first time. Follow their journey as they prepare to represent their country on the international stage.
Baton Rouge Pickleball Tournament Recap
Written by

Baton Rouge Pickleball Tournament Recap

Published on
April 25, 2025
Get a firsthand look into the PPA Challenger pickleball tournament in Baton Rouge with a breakdown of key moments, hard-earned lessons, and doubles highlights featuring Austin Bricker. This honest and strategic recap reflects on past tournaments, the mindset going in, and what’s next in the journey to improve as a competitive pickleball player. Watch the full tournament recap now on YouTube.
Why I Stopped Using the Proton Flamingo Paddle: Full Review
Jeremy Bourgeois
Written by
Jeremy Bourgeois

Why I Stopped Using the Proton Flamingo Paddle: Full Review

Published on
April 21, 2025
Looking for an honest review of the Proton Flamingo pickleball paddle? I discuss its impressive spin performance, control, and durability. I also explain why I ultimately stopped using it. From core consistency issues to awkward handling, here's everything you need to know before spending $280.
Screaming in Pickleball – Where's the Line?
Mackenzie Bourgeois
Written by
Mackenzie Bourgeois

Screaming in Pickleball – Where's the Line?

Published on
April 21, 2025
Where’s the line between hype and poor sportsmanship in pickleball? This post explores the rise of on-court screaming, from pro players like Julian Arnold and Anna Bright to juniors emulating them, and why respectful celebration matters in competitive play.
Science-Backed Game Plan to Bring Your A-Game to Morning Pickleball Drills
Geoff Bourgeois
Written by
Geoff Bourgeois

Science-Backed Game Plan to Bring Your A-Game to Morning Pickleball Drills

Published on
April 20, 2025
Here's the science behind waking up and performing on the pickleball court in the early morning. Learn how sleep inertia, cortisol levels, body temperature, and nervous system activation impact early morning drills—and get a proven 5-step routine to boost performance.
Palmera Pickleball's U.S. Tour: A Spring Season of Competition, Connection & Community
Geoff Bourgeois
Written by
Geoff Bourgeois

Palmera Pickleball's U.S. Tour: A Spring Season of Competition, Connection & Community

Published on
April 16, 2025
A recap of Palmera Pickleball’s spring tour across the U.S., featuring PPA tournaments, travel highlights, training sessions, and venue visits.
Split-Step Drills to Boost Your Pickleball Speed, Balance, and Court Positioning
Jeremy Bourgeois
Written by
Jeremy Bourgeois

Split-Step Drills to Boost Your Pickleball Speed, Balance, and Court Positioning

Published on
April 15, 2025
Check out our first tutorial video, where Jeremy and Abigail Bourgeois learn through high-impact drills designed to hardwire the split-step into your game.
Pickleball Partner Etiquette: What Makes a Great Teammate
Mackenzie Bourgeois
Written by
Mackenzie Bourgeois

Pickleball Partner Etiquette: What Makes a Great Teammate

Published on
April 14, 2025
Being a great doubles partner in pickleball isn’t just about skill—it’s about mindset, communication, and support. One bad attitude can sink a match, while positivity can lift a team to victory. In this post, I share real experiences, mindset tips, and what to avoid so you can bring out the best in your teammate—and yourself.
My First PPA Tournament: Winning Bronze and Tips for Tournament Prep
Abigail Bourgeois
Written by
Abigail Bourgeois

My First PPA Tournament: Winning Bronze and Tips for Tournament Prep

Published on
April 14, 2025
Thirteen-year-old Abigail Bourgeois shares her experience medaling at her first PPA pickleball tournament in Cape Coral, Florida. From battling cold weather and fatigue to learning the importance of prep, hydration, and mental focus, she reflects on her competition experience.
How to Stay Mentally Strong on the Pickleball Court
Mackenzie Bourgeois
Written by
Mackenzie Bourgeois

How to Stay Mentally Strong on the Pickleball Court

Published on
April 13, 2025
Your attitude might be the most powerful tool in your game. I share practical strategies for staying mentally strong during matches and resetting after frustration.
Body Bags and Nasty Nelsons: The Dark Arts of Competitive Pickleball
Jeremy Bourgeois
Written by
Jeremy Bourgeois

Body Bags and Nasty Nelsons: The Dark Arts of Competitive Pickleball

Published on
April 13, 2025
Body bag shots and Nasty Nelsons aren’t just chaotic fun—they’re strategic weapons in competitive pickleball. In this blog, I break down why these controversial plays deserve respect, how to use them effectively, and when it’s just plain funny to unleash them.
From Practice to Performance, Part 4: Mastering Performance Anxiety in Pickleball (The Science, Psychology, and My Personal Routine)
Geoff Bourgeois
Written by
Geoff Bourgeois

From Practice to Performance, Part 4: Mastering Performance Anxiety in Pickleball (The Science, Psychology, and My Personal Routine)

Published on
April 13, 2025
Struggling with nerves on the pickleball court? Learn the science behind performance anxiety, how it affects your body and brain, and the 10-minute warm-up routine I use to activate flow state and overcome mental blocks. Whether you're a beginner or a competitive player, this evidence-based approach will help you calm your mind, trust your instincts, and play your best pickleball under pressure.
Stop Coaching Mid-Game: How to Be a Better Pickleball Doubles Partner
Geoff Bourgeois
Written by
Geoff Bourgeois

Stop Coaching Mid-Game: How to Be a Better Pickleball Doubles Partner

Published on
April 12, 2025
Mid-game coaching in pickleball might seem helpful, but it often backfires—disrupting rhythm, adding pressure, and straining team dynamics. Discover ways to get your partner into a flow state, and optimize for the win even when your partner is struggling.
The Evolution of Pickleball Singles: Passing Shots vs Drop Volleys
Jeremy Bourgeois
Written by
Jeremy Bourgeois

The Evolution of Pickleball Singles: Passing Shots vs Drop Volleys

Published on
April 11, 2025
Singles pickleball is evolving fast—from powerful baseline drives to finesse drop volleys, today’s top players are mastering the full range of strategy and skill.
Why Standard Scoring Is More Fun Than Rally Scoring in Pickleball
Geoff Bourgeois
Written by
Geoff Bourgeois

Why Standard Scoring Is More Fun Than Rally Scoring in Pickleball

Published on
April 10, 2025
Standard scoring creates a battlefield of shifting mindsets. It forces players to adapt, control momentum, and think several moves ahead. Rally scoring? It rewards consistency, punishes risk-taking, and flattens every player into the same narrow style.
From Practice to Performance, Part 3: Why Learning to Compete in Pickleball Is a Whole New Game
Geoff Bourgeois
Written by
Geoff Bourgeois

From Practice to Performance, Part 3: Why Learning to Compete in Pickleball Is a Whole New Game

Published on
April 10, 2025
Tournament play elevates the stakes, and with that, your nervous system shifts into high alert. Performance under pressure becomes a different sport altogether—a test not of your technical ceiling, but of your psychological floor.
From Practice to Performance, Part 2: How to Play the Opponent
Written by

From Practice to Performance, Part 2: How to Play the Opponent

Published on
April 9, 2025
Learn how to shift from just hitting the ball to truly playing your opponent. In this pickleball strategy guide, we break down how to read opponents, adjust tactics mid-match, and enhance your drill sessions to train your competitive mindset to win under pressure.
No Wins, Big Wins: My First PPA Challenger Tournament (Columbia, SC)
Mackenzie Bourgeois
Written by
Mackenzie Bourgeois

No Wins, Big Wins: My First PPA Challenger Tournament (Columbia, SC)

Published on
April 8, 2025
At 15 years old, I competed in my first PPA Challenger Tournament in Columbia, SC. I didn’t come home with any medals—but I left with something even better: lessons in integrity, resilience, and what it really takes to grow as a pickleball player.
Pickleball's Paradox: Gateway to Wellness or Obsessive Pursuit?
Geoff Bourgeois
Written by
Geoff Bourgeois

Pickleball's Paradox: Gateway to Wellness or Obsessive Pursuit?

Published on
April 8, 2025
Pickleball is more than a sport—it’s a growing wellness trend with surprising health, cognitive, and social benefits. But behind the hype lies a hidden risk: obsession, injury, and imbalance. Discover the paradox of pickleball and how to pursue the game without letting it take over your life.
From Practice to Performance, Part 1: Training the Competitive Mindset in Pickleball
Geoff Bourgeois
Written by
Geoff Bourgeois

From Practice to Performance, Part 1: Training the Competitive Mindset in Pickleball

Published on
April 7, 2025
Drilling builds skill. But winning demands more than clean mechanics—it requires adaptability, problem-solving, and the ability to think under pressure. Mastery isn’t just about hitting perfect shots; it’s about training your brain to recognize patterns, quiet the inner critic, and respond instinctively when the stakes are high.
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