Third Shot Drop Race

This pickleball drill emphasizes improving serves, returns, and third-shot drops in a focused, non-play format.

Setup:

• Play is restricted to the even and odd sides of the court.
• Only the serve, return, and third shots are hit in each point.

Drill Format:

Point 1 (Even Side):

• Player 1 serves to Player 2, who must return the ball cross-court.
• If Player 1 lands their third shot inside the kitchen, they score a point.

Point 2 (Even Side):

• Player 2 serves to Player 1, who must return the ball cross-court.
• If Player 2 lands their third shot inside the kitchen, they score a point.

Point 3 (Odd Side):

• Same format as Point 1.

Point 4 (Odd Side):

• Same format as Point 2.

Objective:

• The winner is the first player to make 11 third-shot drops that land in the kitchen.

Benefits:

• Focuses on accuracy and control for both serves and third-shot drops.
• Teaches players to handle pressure when approaching the net with critical third-shot decisions.
• Helps players develop consistent placement and control on their third shots in a game-like context.

This drill provides targeted practice for essential shots, improving overall pickleball performance.