What are some of the most important 9 skills needed to become a high level pickleball player?

What Are the 9 Most Important Unique Skills Needed to Be an Advanced Pickleball Player?

Pickleball has surged in popularity in recent years, becoming North America’s fastest-growing sport — and gaining serious traction here in Australia too. To succeed in this fast-evolving game, players need a specific combination of unique and adaptable skills.

If you're aiming to take your performance to the next level, whether through your own regular practice or pickleball coaching in the Northern Beaches of Sydney, here are the nine essential skills every advanced player must develop:

1. Dinking

Dinking is a soft, controlled finesse shot that keeps the ball low over the net and unattackable. It requires excellent touch and accuracy and is a critical part of our advanced Northern Beaches pickleball coaching. A well-executed series of dinks can keep your opponents off balance and open up a chance for your partner to finish the point with a put-away shot.

2. Third Shot Drop

The third shot drop is a key tactic that allows you to ‘buy a ticket to the net’ — the most dominant position in the game. This slow, controlled shot lands in the kitchen (non-volley zone), giving you time to advance and set up your team’s net play. Mastering this shot is a core focus in any private pickleball coaching session.

3. Volleys

Volleys — shots hit before the ball bounces — demand strong reflexes, sharp hand-eye coordination, and great positioning. They help you take time away from your opponent and gain control of the net. Advanced pickleball lessons in the Northern Beaches often include targeted drills to refine rolling volleying techniques.

4. Footwork

Quick, balanced footwork allows players to get into optimal positions for every shot. Whether moving forwards, backwards, or laterally, staying grounded and controlled is key. Footwork drills are often part of effective pickleball training, especially when developing speciality moves like poaching or the “Erne”.

5. Strategy

Tactical awareness separates good players from great ones. Advanced players can read their opponents, adjust their style mid-game, and exploit weaknesses. Strategy is something a seasoned pickleball instructor can help refine — whether you’re playing defensively or launching into a more aggressive, proactive style of play.

6. The Soft Game

While power is important, advancing in pickleball means developing finesse. The soft game — including delicate drops and dinks — allows for greater tactical variety. Using soft shots to place the ball precisely into the kitchen creates unattackable situations and pressures your opponent into making errors. It’s an essential area to master if you want to truly improve your pickleball game.

7. Consistency & Patience

Winning at advanced levels often comes down to who can play the longest without making mistakes. Unforced errors account for a large percentage of points lost. Developing consistency through drilling, and practising patience in long rallies, can significantly improve match outcomes. Many players benefit from pickleball coaching to help cultivate these habits.

8. Mental Toughness

Pickleball challenges not just your body but your mindset. Staying calm under pressure, bouncing back from errors, and keeping a positive, focused outlook are the marks of a mentally strong athlete. This mental strength is especially vital when recovering from injuries or managing tournament fatigue.

9. Persistence & Diligence

Natural talent only takes you so far — persistence and consistent effort are what truly drive improvement. Whether you’re naturally gifted or not, drilling regularly, seeking guidance from some of the best pickleball coaches in Sydney, and sticking with the process will lead to results. Remember: “A winner is just a loser that never gave up.”

Summary

In summary, the most important unique skills needed to be a great pickleball player include dinking, third shot drops, volleys, footwork, tactics, mental toughness, soft game, and consistency. These skills are essential for players looking to improve their game and compete at a high level, and they can be developed through drilling practice, persistence, and a constant willingness to learn.

As with all emerging and top athletes these skills can be fast-tracked with the help and guidance of a pickleball coach. For more information on pickleball coaching go to pickleball lesson bookings as Pickleball Coaching Australia is here to help you be the best you can and want to be.

These can all be developed through regular training, self-discipline, and support from a qualified coach. At Pickleball Coaching Australia, we’re here to help you fast-track your progress and reach your goals — whether you're just getting started or striving to compete at the highest level.

To get started, explore our pickleball lessons in the Northern Beaches or enquire about private pickleball coaching options with an experienced pickleball instructor in Sydney. Let’s help you improve your pickleball game — the smart way.