# Watch Worlds like a coach: three things to steal from the pros this week

> You won’t hit like a pro by Sunday. But you can learn to see the game the way they do.

- Publication: Pickleballer (https://pickleballer.world/)
- Section: The Kitchen
- By: Step Harmon
- Published: 2026-11-02T05:00:00-08:00
- URL: https://pickleballer.world/stories/watch-worlds-like-a-coach/
- Topics: Strategy, PPA World Championships

Most of us watch pro pickleball the way we watch highlights: waiting for the around-the-post shot. This week, try watching the way a coach does. The lessons are in the boring parts.

## 1. Watch the feet after the third shot

Pick one player and ignore the ball. After their team hits the third shot, where do they go? Pros don't sprint to the kitchen line on every third. They move forward when the shot earns it, and they split-step, a small hop that sets their weight, as the opponent makes contact. That pause is the difference between a reset and a ball at your feet.

**Steal it:** In your next game, say "split" in your head every time your opponent hits. Be still and balanced when they make contact.

## 2. Count how often they speed up

Watch a long dink rally and count the attackable balls that pros don't attack. You'll be surprised. The best players wait for a ball that's high enough, and when they speed up, they usually aim at the body or the hip of the paddle side, not the open court.

**Steal it:** Only speed up a ball above net height. Aim at the right hip of a right-hander.

## 3. Notice where they stand to return serve

Pros return deep and then get to the line. A deep return gives them time. A short return gives the serving team a free walk forward.

**Steal it:** Aim your returns at the back third of the court, with height. Then move up behind it.

## Make it your own

None of this means copying a pro's game. You bring your own history, instincts and abilities to the court. Use the pros to see patterns, then decide which ones fit how you play.

*Step Harmon is the founder of Pickleballer.world, an advanced player and PIPR-certified trainer. [More about Step](https://pickleballer.world/about/).*