ATP

ATP, around the post, is a specialty shot in pickleball where the ball is hit below net level around the outside of the net post. Similar to tennis, there is no rule that requires the ball to go over the net.

Now, this is a very tricky shot that can only be done when properly set up. Usually, the opportunity arises during a dinking battle as players push each other out on cross court dinks. Once the ball is hit at an angle that reaches past the plane of the net, the ball can be hit around the post.

The main thing to consider when attempting this shot is patience. Make sure the ball makes it all the way outside the net or you will hit it into the post instead of around it. Since the ball doesn't have to go over the net, let the ball get nice and low to the ground before hitting it.

Once the ball is in the proper position, you must aim. The natural response is to aim toward the middle of the court. That's a narrow window and misses most of the time. The correct spot to aim for is the back corner. It is not only the easiest target to hit in this situation, but it also is the hardest to defend.

Speaking of defending, these are possible to defend, though challenging. The defending player should straddle the sideline, making sure to stay behind the kitchen line, because more than likely it will be hit out of the air. Since this shot is usually hit hard, there is no need for a swing. Hold the paddle angled back in toward the court. This ensures that it doesn't bounce off back out of bounds.