Dear Eric - Pickled On and Pickled

Dear Eric -
Reader writes: “during our rec play match, our opponents were hitting every ball to my partner. After one rally where they hit ten shots in a row to her before winning the point, I commented, ‘You know, you’re allowed to hit the ball to me.’ Was that wrong?” - Paul V.

Short answer: Not wrong, but there’s a better way to handle it.

Why it happens

Teams often exploit a perceived weak link. If your partner is the weaker player, opponents will target that side repeatedly. That’s tactical, not personal. Still, a one‑sided barrage feels rude and frustrating, especially when it’s relentless, and especially when it’s in open play when there’s nothing on the line.

What your comment communicates

Saying it in the moment makes your point but can also come off as snarky, which inflames tension and distracts everyone. It may stop the behavior short term, but it also risks escalating emotions or getting you called out for unsportsmanlike attitude.

Better options next time

After the game, pull one or both of you opponents aside and say “hey, I know we all want to win games, but this is rec play and it really takes the fun out of it for our team if one player gets 95% of the balls. Maybe mix it up a bit more next time?”

Final thought

Sometimes we just share our thoughts in the moment. Don’t sweat it, just like they shouldn’t sweat the fact that they were within the bounds of the rules, but outside of the scope of good social fun.  

— Dear Eric, Open Play Post