Pro players often make the two-handed backhand volley look deceptively easy, but for amateur players, it can be a shot that's as frustrating as it is elusive. At the recent Pickleball Pro Tour event, we had the chance to sit down with Coach Thompson, a renowned instructor with years of experience teaching the fundamentals of pickleball, to get the inside scoop on how to master this tricky shot.
According to Coach Thompson, the key to a successful two-handed backhand volley is not just about the physical movement of the arms, but also about the mental approach to the shot. "Most players try to generate power from their arms, but the real power comes from the legs and core," he explained. "You need to be able to transfer your weight and generate torque from your lower body to get the ball to come back over the net." This approach requires a deep understanding of body positioning and weight transfer, which can be a challenge for many players to master.
One of the most common mistakes players make when trying to hit a two-handed backhand volley is not keeping their arms relaxed. "When you tense up, you lose control and the ball goes flying off in all directions," Coach Thompson said. "You need to keep your arms loose and let the ball come to you, rather than trying to hit it with force." This requires a high degree of hand-eye coordination and timing, as well as a willingness to let go of the need to control the shot.
Another key to hitting a successful two-handed backhand volley is to keep the paddle face square to the net. "If you're not square to the net, you're going to hit the ball at an angle and it's going to sail out of bounds," Coach Thompson warned. "You need to be able to adjust your body position and paddle angle to hit the ball straight on." This requires a high degree of flexibility and mobility, as well as a deep understanding of the geometry of the shot.
Finally, Coach Thompson emphasized the importance of practice and repetition in mastering the two-handed backhand volley. "This shot takes time and practice to develop, so don't get discouraged if you don't see improvement right away," he said. "Keep working at it and you'll eventually see the results you're looking for." With patience, persistence, and the right instruction, even the most challenging shots can become second nature.
As the pickleball community continues to grow and evolve, it's clear that mastering the two-handed backhand volley will be a key skill for players of all levels. By following the six keys outlined by Coach Thompson, players can take their game to the next level and become more confident and effective on the court. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out, the two-handed backhand volley is a shot that's worth mastering – and with the right instruction and practice, it's within reach.
