Pickleball tip of the week: The slice. How to use it, how to defend it

We have concentrated on topspin in many of my articles, so this week, let’s focus on slice.Specifically, let’s look at serve return with slice.

Coach Mary's Tip of the Week: The slice, using it and defending it

Let's start with how to hit a forehand slice. Tanner Tomasi, one of our favorite instructors, shares the basics.

The Forehand slice

• Paddle face up, and slightly closed.
• You want the ball to spend as much time as possible on your paddle – that generates the most amount of spin.
• Start high, finish high to low, using your chest.

Note: The power for this shot comes from moving forward as you contact, from your body.

The backhand slice

The backhand slice is most effective on serve return.

• Footwork is most important!  Your body should be closed, or sideways.
• Hit the ball with your shoulder.
• Think gradual, go down the mountain.  No chop!
• Throw yourself into the shot, using your core, rather than your arm.   Jump into the shot.

Using a slice on returns

Decorated women's player Mari Humberg has great information on how, when and why to use a slice return.

• Continental grip, same for both sides.  (Handshake grip)
• You must contact in front of you, so back up when you see it is deep.  You need space!  Step into this shot!
• You want to flow through this shot.  Pause, then move!
• High to low, you can slice from a higher point also.  This is important!  If the serve is deep, you must move back so you can attack through the ball.

3 good things, 3 bad things

First, three good things, about using a slice return.

• Consistency.   This will become one of your “go to” shot.
• Creates pressure on your opponent.  Makes them get under the ball, and they will have trouble dropping the slice return.  They will have to drive it instead.
• Incorporate your shoulders with the off arm going back.

And three potential cons with a slice return.

• Gives the opponent topspin.
• If you do not practice this shot, it will be inconsistent. Get rid of wrist movement!  You do not want the ball to float!
• The Slice return is slower, so you might have more time to get to the Kitchen.

Bonus note: In women’s doubles, Humberg uses more slice.  In mixed, she does not see it as an advantage.  The guys will drive it with topspin.

How to read the slice

• Slice hits and skips.  Short hops will not help you.
• You will need to move back, use a short backswing, get low, and incorporate your body in the execution of the shot.   Move through the ball!
• My Tuesday Advanced Drill and Play Class worked on this this week.  It was hard at first, but then the lightbulb went on, and they were executing slice!  We then used the slice for our serves – they really got it!
• Add this skill to your toolbox.

Don't forget

First Indoor Round Robin: May 17, Sunday, at Palm Desert Civic Center Park.  Stay cool and play indoors!  Register at Desert Recreation District.

This article originally appeared on Palm Springs Desert Sun: Pickleball tip of the week: The slice. How to use it, how to defend it