To poach or not to poach?

I am a very competitive athlete in general, and pickleball is no exception. So, in my earlier days of play, when we began watching the pros online, I turned to my mixed doubles partner and said, “If you ever take a ball from me like that, I will hit you over the head with my paddle.” At the time, I just couldn’t understand how the man could literally step in front of his female partner and take the ball from her. I mean, she is a pro for a reason and perfectly capable of making her own shot. I mean, she had been doing so the last ten hits of that same volley.

However, I have grown in the sport and realized there is a reason and strategy to everything. 2019 has been the biggest year for me in the sense of poaching. Not in being poached, but rather having to learn where and when I should. As a young, hard-hitting player, there are plenty of teams I play in women’s doubles that specifically hit it to my partner, who is usually more of a dinker. And I definitely understand, because that is the same strategy I employ if I know one of my opponents prefers the softer game.

Unfortunately, I was trying to learn mid-game. And that is definitely not the time to try anything new. But you won’t know what the game is going to be like until it starts. Once it is distinguished, it is time to talk with your partner and make sure they know you could potentially poach. That way, they don’t accidentally hit you in the back of the head.

Now that you and your partner know you are looking for the opportunity to poach, you must determine the best times. First and foremost, the shot must be one that you can put away for a point. This is important because, not only will you and your partner be off-balance, but also you leave at least half of the court open. Therefore, you are looking for a ball that is left somewhat high, at least higher than the net. It doesn’t have to have overhead slam potential. A line drive will do. That is why you will always hear me say, “First rule of poaching; put it away!”

Where too many people fail at poaching is they get greedy and impatient. Then they rush their shot or don’t quite reach it. Generally, the opportunity arises when a steady dink rally is happening. Then when the ball is left high, jump over there and slam it down for the point. Just don’t fall in the kitchen or knock over your partner.

Don’t be rude and try to steal every ball from your partner. But if you have the chance, poaching can be very successful. It can catch opponents off-guard, making it harder for them to return your shot. So, before you even start practicing, watch a few games and start learning "to poach or on to poach?", because that is always the question.