Pickleball Partner Etiquette: What Makes a Great Teammate
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.
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In doubles, it is not just about how well you play, it is about how well you and your partner work together. One bad attitude can throw off the whole vibe, and trust me, I have been there. Over time, I have learned a lot about what makes someone a great partner and how I try to be one myself.
A Great Partner Is Supportive
The best partners are not just the ones who play well, they are the ones who lift you up. When you miss a shot, they do not make you feel bad about it. They say things like, "You have got the next one," or "Let's go!" That kind of support keeps the energy high and helps you reset after a mistake.
Clear, positive communication helps you maintain the right mindset and stay mentally aligned with your partner.
What Makes It Hard
On the flip side, a tough partner is someone who gets visibly upset when you mess up. Maybe they stop talking to you or just walk back to the baseline without a word. That kind of energy kills team chemistry. It can feel like you are not just playing against your opponents but also struggling with your own teammate.
What I Try to Do
When my partner hits a rough patch, I try to stay super positive. I will give them a paddle tap and say something like, "Next one is ours," or "Let's have fun." It is not about pretending mistakes do not happen, it is about helping each other bounce back quickly.
What NOT to Do
There are a few things that can seriously mess with your partner's mindset:
- Coaching them during the match, unless you are both on the same page, this usually does more harm than good.
- Laughing at their mistakes, even if you are just trying to lighten the mood, it can come off as rude or dismissive.
- Getting visibly annoyed or silent, that creates tension, and the court is the last place you want that.
Communication Is Everything
Talk to your partner. Even a simple "Let's go!" or "Shake it off" can make a big difference. It reminds them you have got their back and that you are in this together. Clear, positive communication helps you maintain the right mindset and stay mentally aligned with your partner.
Final Tips for Being a Great Pickleball Doubles Partner
If you want to be a great teammate:
- Be supportive
- Do not judge
- And most importantly, have fun
At the end of the day, pickleball is a team sport. And the best teams are not always the ones with the best players, they are the ones who lift each other up, stay positive, and play with heart.
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